Social Worker - Family Safeguarding

Social Worker – Family Safeguarding
West Berkshire Council – Based in Newbury

Salary: £40,242 per annum
Hours: 37 hours per week
Contract: Permanent

About the Role

West Berkshire Council is seeking a committed and experienced Social Worker to join their Family Safeguarding Service. This role focuses on delivering high-quality, strengths-based interventions to support children and families, reduce risk, and promote long-term stability.

You’ll manage a varied caseload, work closely with partner agencies, and contribute to a supportive, reflective, and well-structured safeguarding service.

Key Responsibilities

  • Undertake Child & Family Assessments within statutory timescales.
  • Manage CIN, CP, and PLO cases with a strong focus on safety planning.
  • Work collaboratively with adult specialist workers within the Family Safeguarding model.
  • Prepare analytical, evidence-based reports for panels and court where required.
  • Build positive, trusting relationships with children and families.
  • Participate in reflective supervision and contribute to a learning culture.
  • Maintain accurate, timely case records in line with statutory requirements.

Practice Model Used by West Berkshire

West Berkshire also uses the Family Safeguarding Model, a nationally recognised, multi-disciplinary approach that brings adult specialists (domestic abuse, mental health, substance misuse workers) into Children’s Services teams.

This model promotes:

  • Holistic, whole-family support
  • Improved information sharing
  • Strengths-based, relationship-focused practice
  • Better outcomes for children through joined-up intervention

Why West Berkshire Is a Great Place to Work and Live

West Berkshire is one of the most desirable areas in the South East, offering a superb balance of countryside living and modern convenience. Highlights include:

  • Beautiful rural landscapes, including the North Wessex Downs AONB.
  • A safe, thriving community with excellent schools and family-friendly neighbourhoods.
  • Strong transport links, including direct trains to Reading, Oxford, and London Paddington.
  • Newbury is a vibrant, historic market town with cafés, shops, restaurants, and cultural venues.
  • A stable local authority known for supporting its workforce and investing in practice quality.

Whether you’re commuting or relocating, West Berkshire offers a relaxed pace of life, fantastic scenery, and a high-performing Children’s Services environment.