Social Worker

Children with Disabilities Social Worker (North, Central & South)

Herefordshire Council
Salary: £41,363 - £45,777 per annum
Plus: £10,000 Welcome Payment & £4,000 Retention Payment
Contract: Permanent | Full-time | Hybrid Working Available

Herefordshire Council is continuing its improvement journey through sustained investment in children's services, creating a supportive environment where social workers can thrive and make a lasting difference to children and families. With stable leadership, manageable caseloads, and a strong focus on professional development, Herefordshire offers an excellent opportunity for experienced practitioners looking to progress their careers.

About the Role

As a Children with Disabilities Social Worker, you'll work with children and young people with complex disabilities and additional needs, ensuring they receive the support, services, and protection required to achieve positive outcomes.

You'll undertake assessments, develop care and support plans, and work closely with families, education providers, health professionals, and partner agencies to coordinate effective interventions. The role combines safeguarding responsibilities with long-term planning, helping children and young people access the services they need to thrive.

This is an excellent opportunity for a social worker who is passionate about improving the lives of children with disabilities and supporting families through relationship-based practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of children and young people with disabilities and complex needs.
• Complete Child and Family Assessments, Care Act transition work, and statutory visits.
• Undertake safeguarding and child protection investigations where required.
• Develop and review care, support, and short break plans.
• Work collaboratively with health, education, and multi-agency professionals.
• Support children, young people, and families to access appropriate services and resources.
• Attend and contribute to multi-agency meetings, reviews, and planning forums.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with statutory responsibilities.

Practice Model

Herefordshire Council operates under the Family Safeguarding Model, placing strong emphasis on restorative, strengths-based practice and collaborative working with families.

Social workers are encouraged to develop meaningful relationships with children, young people, and their families, ensuring their voices are central to assessment, planning, and decision-making. The model promotes multidisciplinary working and focuses on empowering families to achieve sustainable positive outcomes.

Requirements

• Social Work degree or equivalent qualification.
• Social Work England registration.
• Experience within children's social care.
• Knowledge of legislation relating to children with disabilities, safeguarding, and child protection.
• Strong assessment, planning, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively with children who have complex needs and their families.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.
• Sponsorship available for candidates with 2+ years UK experience.

Benefits

• £10,000 Welcome Payment & £4,000 Retention Payment.
• Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
• Protected professional development time and training budget.
• Clear progression pathways and career development opportunities.
• Flexible working including flexi-time, hybrid working, job share, and part-time options.
• 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.
• Payment of Social Work England registration fees.
• “Pick Your Perks” benefits portal offering discounts on retail, health, leisure, and travel.
• 31 days annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase up to 10 additional days.

Interested?

Contact Josh Da Costa at Sheldon Phillips on 01635 226350 or 07513 834554, or email jdacosta@sheldon-phillips.com to discuss this role in more detail.

Referral Bonus: Know someone perfect for the role? We offer up to £500 for successful referrals.