Social Worker

Senior Social Worker – Permanence Team – Dorset Council

£40 per hour | Hybrid Working | 2–3 Days in the Office

  • Excellent pay rate of £40 per hour
  • Join a well-established Permanence Team
  • Hybrid working with only 2–3 office days per week
  • Long-term stable contract opportunity
  • Support children in achieving safe and lasting permanency plans

An exciting opportunity has become available for an experienced Senior Social Worker to join the Permanence Team at Dorset Council. This role is ideal for a confident practitioner with strong experience in long-term planning for children, court work, care proceedings, and achieving positive permanence outcomes.

You will play a key role in supporting children and young people through care planning processes, ensuring timely and effective permanency arrangements are achieved through adoption, special guardianship, long-term fostering, or reunification where appropriate.

About the Local Authority

Dorset Council is recognised for its commitment to delivering high-quality services for children and families across the county. The authority promotes a supportive and collaborative working culture, with a strong emphasis on professional development, relationship-based practice, and manageable caseloads.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a stable service where experienced practitioners are valued and supported.

Key Responsibilities

  • Manage complex children and families cases within the Permanence Team
  • Undertake assessments and care planning to secure long-term outcomes for children
  • Progress permanence plans including adoption, SGO, fostering, and reunification
  • Complete court work, statements, and attend legal proceedings where required
  • Carry out statutory visits, reviews, and risk assessments
  • Work in partnership with carers, families, legal teams, and multi-agency professionals
  • Provide support and guidance to less experienced colleagues when necessary
  • Maintain accurate and timely case recordings in line with statutory requirements

Candidate Requirements

  • Social Work England registration
  • Degree in Social Work or equivalent qualification
  • Significant post-qualified experience within Children’s Services
  • Strong permanence and court work experience
  • Good understanding of safeguarding legislation and care planning
  • Ability to manage complex caseloads effectively
  • Excellent assessment and report-writing skills

Why Work With Us?

  • Competitive rate of £40 per hour
  • Flexible hybrid working model
  • Only 2–3 days per week in the office
  • Supportive and experienced management team
  • Opportunity to work within a highly regarded permanence service
  • Ongoing contract stability
  • Dedicated consultant support throughout your placement
  • Referral bonus scheme available

For more information or to apply, please contact:

Josh Dhumisani
📞 07902371315
📧 jdhumisani@sheldon-phillips.com