Hackney Council is seeking an experienced Senior Social Worker to join their Family Help Team. This is an exciting opportunity to work within an innovative service that brings together early intervention, safeguarding, and family support to deliver effective, relationship-based practice for children and families.

You will work with families across the continuum of need, providing intensive support, managing risk, and helping to create sustainable change that improves outcomes for children and young people.

In this role, you will:

• Manage a complex caseload of children and families requiring support and intervention
• Undertake Child and Family Assessments and statutory assessments where required
• Manage Child in Need and Child Protection plans
• Complete Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries and investigations
• Work directly with children and families to build strengths and reduce risk
• Develop and implement outcome-focused plans that promote positive change
• Lead and participate in multi-agency meetings and safeguarding processes
• Undertake pre-proceedings and court work where required
• Support and mentor less experienced Social Workers within the team
• Maintain high-quality assessments, reports, and case recordings

What You’ll Need:

• Social Work England Registration
• Social Work Qualification
• At least 3 years’ post-qualified experience in children’s social care
• Strong experience within Family Help, Safeguarding, CIN, CP, or Assessment services
• Experience managing complex safeguarding cases
• Court work and pre-proceedings experience
• Excellent assessment, analytical, and communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multi-agency environment
• Experience supporting and developing colleagues within a team setting

Why Sheldon Phillips?

Because we actually listen to what you need. We’re not just here to fill roles—we’re here to find you the right fit in a supportive and rewarding team. That’s why social workers trust us to help them take the next step in their careers.

If you want to know more about this Senior Social Worker – Family Help role in Hackney, give Ellis Russell a call on 01635 226350 – let’s have a chat!

And don’t forget – if you refer a friend and we place them, you’ll get £300 as a thank you! (Terms and conditions apply).

• Manage a caseload of children and young people subject to Care Orders, Interim Care Orders and those accommodated under Section 20 of the Children Act 1989.
• Build and maintain strong, trusting relationships with children and young people, ensuring their wishes and feelings are central to all decision-making.
• Complete statutory visits and reviews in line with legislative requirements and organisational timescales.
• Develop, implement and review care plans that promote safety, stability, permanence and positive outcomes.
• Work closely with foster carers, residential providers, families and partner agencies to support children's emotional, educational and developmental needs.
• Prepare high-quality reports for Looked After Children Reviews, court proceedings and other statutory meetings.
• Contribute to permanence planning, including rehabilitation, Special Guardianship, long-term fostering and adoption where appropriate.
• Support young people through transitions, including pathway planning and preparation for adulthood.
• Attend and contribute to multi-agency meetings, ensuring coordinated and effective interventions.
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings in accordance with statutory guidance and local procedures.

• Competitive pay rate of £40 per hour.
• Opportunity to work within a well-established Children in Care Service.
• Meaningful and rewarding work supporting looked after children and young people.
• Supportive management structure with regular supervision.
• Collaborative multi-agency environment focused on achieving permanence and stability.
• Exposure to varied and complex casework, supporting ongoing professional development.

• Social Work qualification (Degree, DipSW, CQSW or equivalent).
• Current registration with Social Work England.
• Previous experience working within a Children in Care, Looked After Children or Permanence Team.
• Strong understanding of relevant legislation, including the Children Act 1989 and care planning regulations.
• Experience of undertaking statutory visits and managing looked after children caseloads.
• Ability to complete high-quality assessments, care planning and court reports.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to work effectively with children, carers, families and partner agencies to achieve positive outcomes.

Emily Cooper at Sheldon Phillips - 07745 200325 OR ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

• Manage a diverse caseload of children and families subject to Child in Need and Child Protection processes.
• Undertake statutory assessments, including Child and Family Assessments, to identify needs, strengths and risks.
• Complete Section 47 enquiries and work collaboratively with partner agencies to safeguard children at risk of significant harm.
• Develop, implement and review Child in Need and Child Protection plans that are outcome-focused and child-centred.
• Undertake direct work with children and families to understand their lived experiences and support positive change.
• Prepare high-quality reports for conferences, meetings and court proceedings where required.
• Attend and contribute to strategy discussions, core groups, Child Protection Conferences and multi-agency meetings.
• Ensure statutory visits, case recordings and assessments are completed within required timescales.
• Work in partnership with education, health, police and other professionals to deliver coordinated interventions.
• Maintain accurate and timely case recording in accordance with legislative and organisational requirements.

• Competitive pay rate of £39 per hour.
• Opportunity to work within an established frontline safeguarding service.
• Varied and rewarding caseload across Child in Need and Child Protection work.
• Supportive management structure and regular supervision.
• Collaborative multi-agency working environment.
• The chance to make a genuine difference to the lives of children and families within Salford.

• Social Work qualification (Degree, DipSW, CQSW or equivalent).
• Current registration with Social Work England.
• Previous experience within Children's Frontline Services, including Child Protection and Child in Need.
• Strong knowledge of safeguarding legislation, statutory guidance and risk assessment processes.
• Experience completing Section 47 enquiries and managing Child Protection plans.
• Ability to build effective relationships with children, families and partner agencies.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities effectively.

Emily Cooper at Sheldon Phillips - 07745 200325 OR ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

• Hold and manage a caseload involving children and families with more complex needs and risks, ensuring timely and effective interventions.
• Provide support during visits, meetings and planning processes involving children, young people and their families.
• Work alongside the Team Manager to lead the team and support the delivery of the service improvement plan.
• Offer reflective and group supervision to colleagues, promoting learning, professional curiosity and good practice.
• Model high-quality social work practice and provide mentoring, teaching and development opportunities to less experienced staff.
• Support colleagues with complex case discussions, decision-making and risk analysis.
• Contribute to improving performance and the team's data set, ensuring accurate recording and compliance with statutory timescales.
• Provide leadership and operational support when the Team Manager is unavailable, undertaking delegated responsibilities as required.
• Foster a positive team culture focused on continuous learning, collaboration and achieving the best outcomes for children.

• Competitive pay rate of £40 per hour.
• Opportunity to step into a leadership role and develop management skills.
• Supportive management team committed to staff development.
• Involvement in a service undergoing positive growth and transformation.
• Opportunities to influence practice improvement and shape service delivery.
• Exposure to a varied and rewarding caseload.
• A collaborative team environment that values reflective practice and continuous learning.

• Social Work qualification (Degree, DipSW, CQSW or equivalent).
• Registration with Social Work England.
• Significant post-qualified experience within Children's Services.
• Experience of managing complex cases involving safeguarding and child protection concerns.
• Ability to provide mentoring, coaching and reflective supervision to colleagues.
• Strong assessment, analysis and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication and multi-agency working abilities.
• Commitment to achieving positive outcomes for children and families through high-quality practice.

Swindon Borough Council

£42.00 per hour
Swindon
Hybrid Working Available
Locum Opportunity

Key Highlights

• Excellent hourly rate of £42.00
• Work within a dedicated Looked After Children Service
• Hybrid working offering flexibility and work-life balance
• Support children and young people to achieve stability and permanence
• Join a supportive and experienced management team
• Opportunity to make a lasting difference to the lives of vulnerable children

Are you a passionate and experienced Social Worker looking for your next locum opportunity? Swindon Borough Council is seeking a committed Social Worker to join its Looked After Children Service. This is a fantastic opportunity to work within a child-focused authority that is dedicated to improving outcomes for children and young people in care.

As a Social Worker within the Looked After Children Team, you will be responsible for supporting children and young people throughout their care journey, ensuring they receive the support, stability, and opportunities needed to reach their full potential. You will work closely with carers, families, education providers, and partner agencies to create positive and lasting change.

About Swindon Borough Council

Swindon Borough Council is committed to delivering high-quality services that place children and young people at the centre of decision-making. The authority continues to invest in its workforce and promotes a culture of collaboration, professional development, and supportive leadership. This is an excellent opportunity to join a service where your expertise and commitment will be valued and where you can genuinely influence positive outcomes for children in care.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of Looked After Children and young people.
• Undertake statutory visits and maintain strong, relationship-based practice.
• Complete assessments, care plans, pathway plans, and statutory reviews.
• Promote permanence planning, including reunification, long-term fostering, special guardianship, and adoption where appropriate.
• Work collaboratively with foster carers, residential providers, schools, health professionals, and other partner agencies.
• Prepare high-quality reports for reviews, meetings, and court proceedings.
• Ensure children and young people's voices are central to all planning and decision-making.
• Support young people in preparation for independence and adulthood.
• Identify and manage risk while ensuring safeguarding responsibilities are met.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records in line with statutory requirements.

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification.
• Registered with Social Work England.
• Previous experience within a Looked After Children, Children in Care, Permanence, or Safeguarding Team.
• Strong understanding of childcare legislation, statutory guidance, and care planning processes.
• Excellent assessment, communication, and report-writing skills.
• Ability to manage a diverse caseload effectively and work independently.
• Strong partnership-working and relationship-building skills.
• Enhanced DBS on the Update Service or willingness to obtain one.

Why Work With Us?

• £42.00 per hour competitive locum rate
• Flexible hybrid working arrangements
• Supportive and approachable management team
• Stable service with a strong focus on positive outcomes
• Regular supervision and opportunities for professional development
• Collaborative working environment where your contribution is valued
• Opportunity to make a meaningful difference to children and young people's lives
• £500 referral bonus for successful recommendations

Interested?

For more information or to apply, please contact:

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

West Sussex County Council

£42.00 per hour
West Sussex
Hybrid Working Available
Locum Opportunity

Key Highlights

• Excellent rate of £42.00 per hour
• Join a highly regarded Children in Care Service
• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements
• Support children and young people to achieve permanence and stability
• Strong management support and collaborative team environment
• Opportunity to make a genuine difference to the lives of children in care

Are you an experienced Social Worker looking for your next rewarding locum opportunity? West Sussex County Council is seeking a dedicated and child-focused Social Worker to join its Children in Care Service. This is an exciting opportunity to work within a forward-thinking local authority that is committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for children and young people in its care.

You will be responsible for supporting children and young people who are looked after by the local authority, ensuring they have access to the care, support, and opportunities needed to thrive. Working closely with carers, families, education providers, and partner agencies, you will help shape positive futures and deliver meaningful change.

About West Sussex County Council

West Sussex County Council is recognised for its commitment to providing high-quality services for children and families. The authority continues to invest in its workforce and offers a supportive environment where social workers are empowered to deliver excellent practice. You'll join a service that values relationship-based social work, professional development, and collaborative working to achieve lasting outcomes for children and young people.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of Children in Care, ensuring all statutory responsibilities are fulfilled.
• Undertake regular visits and build positive, trusting relationships with children and young people.
• Complete assessments, care plans, pathway plans, and reviews in line with statutory requirements.
• Promote permanence planning and ensure children achieve long-term stability.
• Work collaboratively with foster carers, residential providers, families, schools, health professionals, and partner agencies.
• Prepare high-quality reports for court proceedings, reviews, and planning meetings.
• Ensure the wishes and feelings of children and young people are central to all interventions.
• Support young people through transition planning and preparation for adulthood.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and comprehensive case recordings.
• Contribute to safeguarding and risk management processes to ensure children remain safe and supported.

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification.
• Registered with Social Work England.
• Previous experience within a Children in Care, Looked After Children, Permanence, or Safeguarding Team.
• Strong understanding of relevant childcare legislation, statutory guidance, and care planning processes.
• Excellent assessment, analytical, and report-writing skills.
• Ability to effectively manage a busy caseload and prioritise competing demands.
• Strong communication and partnership-working abilities.
• Enhanced DBS on the Update Service or willingness to obtain one.

Why Work With Us?

• £42.00 per hour locum rate
• Flexible hybrid working model
• Supportive leadership and experienced management team
• Opportunity to work within a well-established and respected service
• Ongoing professional development and reflective supervision
• Collaborative team culture focused on achieving positive outcomes
• The chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people
• £500 referral bonus for successful recommendations

Interested?

For more information or to apply, please contact:

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

London Borough of Bexley

£39.04 per hour
Bexley, South East London
Hybrid Working Available
Locum Opportunity

Key Highlights

• Excellent hourly rate of £39.04
• Work within a dedicated Looked After Children Service
• Hybrid working model offering flexibility
• Manage a varied and rewarding caseload of children in care
• Supportive management team and established service
• Opportunity to make a lasting impact on children's lives and outcomes

Are you an experienced Social Worker passionate about improving outcomes for children and young people in care? Bexley Council is seeking a dedicated and motivated Social Worker to join its Looked After Children Service. This is an excellent opportunity to work within a stable and supportive team committed to delivering high-quality services to children and young people.

As a Social Worker within the Looked After Children Team, you will play a vital role in supporting children and young people who are subject to care orders, ensuring they receive the stability, support, and opportunities they need to thrive. You will build meaningful relationships with children, families, carers, and partner agencies to achieve positive and sustainable outcomes.

About Bexley Council

The London Borough of Bexley is committed to providing outstanding services for children, young people, and families. The council continues to invest in its workforce, creating an environment where social workers are valued, supported, and encouraged to develop professionally. You'll be joining a service focused on achieving the best possible outcomes for children while maintaining manageable workloads and strong managerial support.

Key Responsibilities

• Hold and manage a caseload of Looked After Children and young people.
• Undertake statutory visits and ensure care planning remains child-focused and outcome-driven.
• Develop and review care plans in line with legislation, policy, and best practice.
• Work closely with foster carers, residential providers, families, schools, and partner agencies.
• Prepare high-quality assessments, reports, and court documentation where required.
• Participate in statutory reviews and care planning meetings.
• Promote permanence planning, including reunification, long-term fostering, and adoption where appropriate.
• Support young people in preparing for independence and successful transitions into adulthood.
• Ensure children's voices are central to all assessments, plans, and interventions.
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings and documentation.

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification.
• Registered with Social Work England.
• Experience working within a Looked After Children, Children in Care, or Permanence Team.
• Sound knowledge of relevant childcare legislation, statutory guidance, and safeguarding procedures.
• Strong assessment, care planning, and report-writing skills.
• Ability to manage competing demands and prioritise workload effectively.
• Excellent communication and partnership-working abilities.
• Enhanced DBS on the Update Service or willingness to obtain one.

Why Work With Us?

• £39.04 per hour competitive locum rate
• Flexible hybrid working arrangements
• Supportive and experienced management team
• Opportunity to work within a well-established and child-focused service
• Access to regular supervision and professional development
• Meaningful work that directly improves the lives of children and young people
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your placement
• £500 referral bonus for successful recommendations

Interested?

For more information or to apply, please contact:

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

Social Worker – Safeguarding Team

Pay Rate: £40 per hour
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

Staffordshire County Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join its Safeguarding Team.
You will work with children and families where safeguarding concerns have been identified, ensuring timely and effective interventions to protect children and improve outcomes.

This is a supportive and collaborative service with a strong focus on relationship-based practice and multi-agency working.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake Section 47 enquiries and Child and Family Assessments.
• Manage a caseload of Child in Need and Child Protection cases, including court work where required.
• Develop and implement robust safety and support plans.
• Work collaboratively with partner agencies including health, education, and police.
• Undertake direct work with children and families.
• Prepare high-quality reports for conferences, reviews, and court proceedings.
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings.

Practice Model Used by Staffordshire

Staffordshire operates a Strengths-Based Practice Model, supported by Restorative Practice principles.
This approach focuses on:

• Building strong relationships with children and families
• Collaborative, solution-focused working
• Recognising strengths and support networks
• Transparent assessment and decision-making
• Reflective supervision and continuous professional development
• The model supports consistent, child-centred practice and positive outcomes.

Why Staffordshire Is a Great Place to Live and Work

Staffordshire offers an excellent balance of countryside living and modern convenience:

• Home to beautiful outdoor spaces including Cannock Chase and easy access to the Peak District National Park.
• Affordable housing and a lower cost of living compared to many parts of the UK.
• Friendly communities with excellent schools and local amenities.
• Strong transport links to Birmingham, Manchester, and the wider Midlands region.
• A supportive local authority committed to staff wellbeing, professional development, and improving outcomes for children.
• It’s a fantastic place to build your career while enjoying a great quality of life.

Interested?

To apply, please send your CV to:
dmitchell@sheldon-phillips.com

For more information, call:
07561 805654

Senior Practitioner – Assessment Team

Pay Rate: £40 per hour
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

Staffordshire County Council is seeking an experienced Senior Practitioner to join its Assessment Team.
You will work with children and families at the front door of services, undertaking assessments and responding to safeguarding concerns to ensure children receive the right support at the right time.

As a Senior Practitioner, you will support high-quality practice within the team, manage complex cases, and provide guidance and mentoring to colleagues where required.

Key Responsibilities

• Complete Child and Family Assessments and Section 47 enquiries.
• Manage complex safeguarding and assessment cases.
• Provide support and guidance to less experienced social workers.
• Assess risk and develop effective safety plans.
• Work collaboratively with education, health, police, and partner agencies.
• Undertake direct work with children and families.
• Prepare high-quality reports for conferences, reviews, and court proceedings.
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings.

Practice Model Used by Staffordshire

Staffordshire operates a Strengths-Based Practice Model, supported by Restorative Practice principles.
This approach focuses on:

• Building strong relationships with children and families
• Collaborative, solution-focused working
• Recognising strengths and support networks
• Transparent assessment and decision-making
• Reflective supervision and continuous professional development
• The model supports consistent, child-centred practice and positive outcomes.

Why Staffordshire Is a Great Place to Live and Work

Staffordshire offers an excellent balance of countryside living and modern convenience:

• Home to beautiful outdoor spaces including Cannock Chase and easy access to the Peak District National Park.
• Affordable housing and a lower cost of living compared to many parts of the UK.
• Friendly communities with excellent schools and local amenities.
• Strong transport links to Birmingham, Manchester, and the wider Midlands region.
• A supportive local authority committed to staff wellbeing, professional development, and improving outcomes for children.
• It’s a fantastic place to build your career while enjoying a great quality of life.

Interested?

To apply, please send your CV to:
dmitchell@sheldon-phillips.com

For more information, call:
07561 805654

Social Worker – Child Protection Team

Pay Rate: £33.30 per hour
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

Gloucestershire County Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join its Child Protection Team.
You will work with children and families where safeguarding concerns have been identified, ensuring timely and effective interventions to protect children and improve outcomes.

This is a supportive and well-managed service that places strong emphasis on relationship-based practice and multi-agency collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake Section 47 enquiries and Child and Family Assessments.
• Manage a caseload of Child Protection and Child in Need cases.
• Develop and implement robust safety and care plans.
• Work collaboratively with partner agencies including health, education, and police.
• Undertake direct work with children and families.
• Prepare high-quality reports for conferences, reviews, and court proceedings.
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings.

Practice Model Used by Gloucestershire

Gloucestershire uses a Strengths-Based Practice Model, supported by the Three Conversations Approach.
This framework focuses on:

• Building meaningful, person-centred relationships with families
• Reducing unnecessary processes and focusing on outcomes
• Working collaboratively to identify strengths and solutions
• Clear and transparent risk assessment
• Reflective supervision and professional autonomy
• The model supports consistent, high-quality, relationship-based practice.

Why Gloucestershire Is a Great Place to Live and Work

Gloucestershire offers an excellent blend of countryside living and thriving communities:

• Home to the beautiful Cotswolds, offering stunning scenery and an excellent outdoor lifestyle.
• Vibrant towns including Cheltenham and Gloucester, with fantastic shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.
• Excellent transport links to Bristol, Birmingham, Oxford, and London.
• More affordable housing compared to many neighbouring South West locations.
• A supportive local authority committed to staff wellbeing, professional development, and improving outcomes for children.
• It’s a fantastic place to develop your social work career while enjoying an excellent quality of life.

Interested?

To apply, please send your CV to:
dmitchell@sheldon-phillips.com

For more information, call:
07561 805654

Haringey Council is seeking an experienced Senior Social Worker to join their Assessment Team. This is a fast-paced frontline role focused on completing high-quality assessments, managing safeguarding concerns, and ensuring children and families receive timely support and intervention.

You will work with children and families from the point of referral, undertaking assessments, identifying risk, and developing plans that promote safety, stability, and positive outcomes.

In this role, you will:

• Undertake Child and Family Assessments
• Complete Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries and investigations
• Manage Child in Need and Child Protection cases during the assessment phase
• Assess risk and develop outcome-focused plans for children and families
• Undertake direct work with children to understand their wishes, feelings, and lived experiences
• Lead and participate in strategy discussions, safeguarding meetings, and multi-agency forums
• Progress cases through pre-proceedings and court processes where required
• Support and mentor less experienced Social Workers within the team
• Prepare high-quality assessments, reports, and court documentation
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings in line with statutory requirements

What You’ll Need:

• Social Work England Registration
• Social Work Qualification
• At least 3 years’ post-qualified experience in children’s social care
• Strong experience within Assessment, Referral & Assessment, or Duty services
• Child in Need and Child Protection experience
• Court work and pre-proceedings experience
• Ability to manage complex safeguarding cases confidently
• Strong assessment, analytical, and communication skills
• Experience supporting or mentoring colleagues within a team environment

Why Sheldon Phillips?

Because we actually listen to what you need. We’re not just here to fill roles—we’re here to find you the right fit in a supportive and rewarding team. That’s why social workers trust us to help them take the next step in their careers.

If you want to know more about this Senior Social Worker – Assessment Team role in Haringey, give Ellis Russell a call on 01635 226350 – let’s have a chat!

And don’t forget – if you refer a friend and we place them, you’ll get £300 as a thank you! (Terms and conditions apply).

Waltham Forest Council is seeking an experienced Senior Social Worker to join their Assessment Team. This is a frontline role focused on completing timely assessments, managing safeguarding concerns, and ensuring children and families receive the right support at the earliest opportunity.

You will work within a fast-paced service, undertaking assessments and progressing plans that safeguard children and promote positive outcomes through effective multi-agency working and relationship-based practice.

ASAP Start Available

In this role, you will:

• Undertake Child and Family Assessments
• Complete Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries and investigations
• Manage Child in Need and Child Protection cases during the assessment stage
• Assess risk and develop outcome-focused plans for children and families
• Undertake direct work with children to understand their lived experiences and wishes
• Lead and participate in strategy discussions, multi-agency meetings, and safeguarding processes
• Progress cases through pre-proceedings and court processes where required
• Support and mentor less experienced Social Workers within the team
• Prepare high-quality assessments, reports, and court documentation
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings in line with statutory requirements

What You’ll Need:

• Social Work England Registration
• Social Work Qualification
• At least 3 years’ post-qualified experience in children’s social care
• Strong experience within Assessment, Referral & Assessment, or Duty services
• Child in Need and Child Protection experience
• Court work and pre-proceedings experience
• Ability to manage complex safeguarding cases confidently
• Strong assessment, analytical, and communication skills
• Experience supporting or mentoring colleagues within a team environment

Why Sheldon Phillips?

Because we actually listen to what you need. We’re not just here to fill roles—we’re here to find you the right fit in a supportive and rewarding team. That’s why social workers trust us to help them take the next step in their careers.

If you want to know more about this Senior Social Worker – Assessment Team role in Waltham Forest, give Ellis Russell a call on 01635 226350 – let’s have a chat!

And don’t forget – if you refer a friend and we place them, you’ll get £300 as a thank you! (Terms and conditions apply).

Hammersmith & Fulham Council is seeking an experienced Senior Social Worker to join their Assessment Team. This is a fast-paced frontline role focused on completing high-quality assessments, managing safeguarding concerns, and ensuring children and families receive timely and effective interventions.

You will work with children and families from the point of referral, undertaking assessments and progressing plans to safeguard children and improve outcomes through relationship-based practice.

In this role, you will:

• Undertake Child and Family Assessments
• Complete Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries and investigations
• Manage Child in Need and Child Protection cases during the assessment phase
• Assess risk and develop outcome-focused plans for children and families
• Undertake direct work with children to understand their lived experiences and needs
• Lead and participate in strategy discussions, core groups, and multi-agency meetings
• Progress cases through pre-proceedings and court processes where required
• Provide guidance and support to less experienced Social Workers within the team
• Prepare high-quality assessments, reports, and court documentation
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings in line with statutory requirements

What You’ll Need:

• Social Work England Registration
• Social Work Qualification
• At least 3 years’ post-qualified experience in children’s social care
• Strong experience within Assessment, Referral & Assessment, or Duty services
• Child in Need and Child Protection experience
• Court work and pre-proceedings experience
• Ability to manage complex safeguarding cases confidently
• Strong assessment, analytical, and communication skills
• Experience supporting or mentoring colleagues within a team environment

Why Sheldon Phillips?

Because we actually listen to what you need. We’re not just here to fill roles—we’re here to find you the right fit in a supportive and rewarding team. That’s why social workers trust us to help them take the next step in their careers.

If you want to know more about this Senior Social Worker – Assessment Team role in Hammersmith & Fulham, give Ellis Russell a call on 01635 226350 – let’s have a chat!

And don’t forget – if you refer a friend and we place them, you’ll get £300 as a thank you! (Terms and conditions apply).

Social Worker – Looked After Children Team

Pay Rate: £40 per hour
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

Staffordshire County Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join its Looked After Children Team.
You will work with children and young people in care, ensuring they receive high-quality support, stability, and effective care planning to achieve positive long-term outcomes.

This role involves working closely with foster carers, residential providers, families, and partner agencies to promote permanence and improve outcomes for children in care.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of looked after children and young people.
• Complete statutory visits, assessments, and reviews.
• Develop and progress care and permanence plans.
• Work closely with foster carers, residential settings, and multi-agency professionals.
• Prepare high-quality reports for reviews, planning meetings, and court proceedings where required.
• Undertake direct work with children and young people.
• Support transitions to independence and adulthood.

Practice Model Used by Staffordshire

Staffordshire operates a Strengths-Based Practice Model, supported by Restorative Practice principles.
This approach focuses on:

• Building strong relationships with children, families, and carers
• Collaborative, solution-focused working
• Recognising strengths and support networks
• Transparent assessment and decision-making
• Reflective supervision and continuous professional development
• The model supports consistent, child-centred practice and positive outcomes.

Why Staffordshire Is a Great Place to Live and Work

Staffordshire offers an excellent balance of countryside living and modern convenience:

• Home to beautiful outdoor spaces including Cannock Chase and easy access to the Peak District National Park.
• Affordable housing and a lower cost of living compared to many parts of the UK.
• Friendly communities with excellent schools and local amenities.
• Strong transport links to Birmingham, Manchester, and the wider Midlands region.
• A supportive local authority committed to staff wellbeing, professional development, and improving outcomes for children.
• It’s a fantastic place to build your career while enjoying a great quality of life.

Interested?

To apply, please send your CV to:
dmitchell@sheldon-phillips.com

For more information, call:
07561 805654

Social Worker – Safeguarding Team

Pay Rate: £40 per hour
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

Staffordshire County Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join its Safeguarding Team.
You will work with children and families where safeguarding concerns have been identified, ensuring timely and effective interventions to protect children and improve outcomes.

This is a supportive and collaborative service with a strong focus on relationship-based practice and multi-agency working.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake Section 47 enquiries and Child and Family Assessments.
• Manage a caseload of Child in Need and Child Protection cases, including court work where required.
• Develop and implement robust safety and support plans.
• Work collaboratively with partner agencies including health, education, and police.
• Undertake direct work with children and families.
• Prepare high-quality reports for conferences, reviews, and court proceedings.
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings.

Practice Model Used by Staffordshire

Staffordshire operates a Strengths-Based Practice Model, supported by Restorative Practice principles.
This approach focuses on:

• Building strong relationships with children and families
• Collaborative, solution-focused working
• Recognising strengths and support networks
• Transparent assessment and decision-making
• Reflective supervision and continuous professional development
• The model supports consistent, child-centred practice and positive outcomes.

Why Staffordshire Is a Great Place to Live and Work

Staffordshire offers an excellent balance of countryside living and modern convenience:

• Home to beautiful outdoor spaces including Cannock Chase and easy access to the Peak District National Park.
• Affordable housing and a lower cost of living compared to many parts of the UK.
• Friendly communities with excellent schools and local amenities.
• Strong transport links to Birmingham, Manchester, and the wider Midlands region.
• A supportive local authority committed to staff wellbeing, professional development, and improving outcomes for children.
• It’s a fantastic place to build your career while enjoying a great quality of life.

Interested?

To apply, please send your CV to:
dmitchell@sheldon-phillips.com

For more information, call:
07561 805654

Social Worker – Assessment Team

Pay Rate: £40 per hour
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

Staffordshire County Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join its Assessment Team.
You will work with children and families at the front door of services, undertaking assessments and responding to safeguarding concerns to ensure children receive the right support at the right time.

This is a fast-paced frontline role where you will complete assessments, identify risks, and work collaboratively with families and partner agencies to improve outcomes for children.

Key Responsibilities

• Complete Child and Family Assessments and Section 47 enquiries.
• Undertake duty responsibilities and respond to new referrals.
• Assess risk and develop effective safety plans.
• Manage Child in Need and Child Protection cases where required.
• Work collaboratively with education, health, police, and partner agencies.
• Undertake direct work with children and families.
• Maintain accurate case records and prepare high-quality reports.

Practice Model Used by Staffordshire

Staffordshire operates a Strengths-Based Practice Model, supported by Restorative Practice principles.
This approach focuses on:

• Building strong relationships with children and families
• Collaborative, solution-focused working
• Recognising strengths and support networks
• Transparent assessment and decision-making
• Reflective supervision and continuous professional development
• The model supports consistent, child-centred practice and positive outcomes.

Why Staffordshire Is a Great Place to Live and Work

Staffordshire offers an excellent balance of countryside living and modern convenience:

• Home to beautiful outdoor spaces including Cannock Chase and easy access to the Peak District National Park.
• Affordable housing and a lower cost of living compared to many parts of the UK.
• Friendly communities with excellent schools and local amenities.
• Strong transport links to Birmingham, Manchester, and the wider Midlands region.
• A supportive local authority committed to staff wellbeing, professional development, and improving outcomes for children.
• It’s a fantastic place to build your career while enjoying a great quality of life.

Interested?

To apply, please send your CV to:
dmitchell@sheldon-phillips.com

For more information, call:
07561 805654

London Borough of Bexley
£39.04 per hour
Full-Time Contract
Office Attendance Required – 4 Days Per Week

Key Highlights

• £39.04 per hour
• Looked After Children Service
• Full-time contract opportunity
• Stable and supportive management team
• Manage a varied caseload of Looked After Children
• Focus on permanency planning and achieving positive outcomes
• Office-based collaborative working environment
• Social workers are expected to attend the office 4 days per week

Make a Lasting Difference for Children in Care

The London Borough of Bexley is seeking an experienced and motivated Social Worker to join its Looked After Children Service. This is an excellent opportunity for a practitioner who is passionate about improving outcomes for children and young people in care and supporting them to achieve stability, permanence, and positive futures.

As a Social Worker within the Looked After Children Team, you will work with children and young people who are subject to care orders, accommodated under Section 20, or progressing towards permanency. You will play a key role in ensuring children receive high-quality support, protection, and advocacy throughout their care journey.

About Bexley Council

Bexley is committed to delivering outstanding services to children, young people, and families. The authority places children at the heart of all decision-making and strives to provide a relationship-based service that promotes safety, stability, and long-term positive outcomes.

You will join a supportive and collaborative service where professional development, reflective supervision, and high-quality practice are actively encouraged. The service works closely with partner agencies to ensure children receive coordinated and effective support tailored to their individual needs.

The Role

As a Social Worker within the Looked After Children Service, you will hold responsibility for managing a caseload of children in care, undertaking statutory duties, progressing permanence plans, and ensuring children’s voices remain central to all assessments and planning.

You will build meaningful relationships with children, carers, and families while working alongside professionals from education, health, legal services, and the wider safeguarding network.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of Looked After Children in accordance with statutory requirements and local procedures.
• Complete statutory visits, assessments, care plans, pathway plans, and review reports within required timescales.
• Develop and progress permanence plans, including reunification, long-term fostering, Special Guardianship Orders, and adoption where appropriate.
• Build strong and effective relationships with children and young people to ensure their wishes and feelings inform decision-making.
• Undertake direct work with children and young people to promote positive outcomes and address identified needs.
• Work closely with foster carers, residential providers, schools, health professionals, and partner agencies to coordinate support and safeguarding arrangements.
• Attend and contribute to statutory reviews, professionals' meetings, placement planning meetings, and court proceedings where required.
• Complete high-quality assessments, reports, and case recordings that demonstrate analytical thinking and evidence-based practice.
• Support young people preparing for independence and adulthood through effective pathway planning and transition work.
• Identify and manage risk appropriately while promoting strengths-based and child-centred practice.

Working Arrangements

This role requires a strong office presence to support collaborative working and effective service delivery.

Social workers are expected to attend the office a minimum of four days per week.

The remaining working time may be spent undertaking visits, attending meetings, or working flexibly in line with service requirements and management direction.

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with current Social Work England registration.
• Previous experience working within a Looked After Children, Children in Care, Permanence, or Safeguarding Service.
• Strong knowledge of childcare legislation, statutory guidance, and safeguarding procedures.
• Experience of undertaking assessments, care planning, and permanency planning.
• Ability to manage a varied caseload and prioritise competing demands effectively.
• Excellent communication, relationship-building, and report-writing skills.
• Commitment to achieving positive outcomes for children and young people.
• Ability to work collaboratively with children, families, carers, and partner agencies.
• A sound understanding of child development, attachment, and trauma-informed practice.

Why Work with Us?

• Competitive rate of £39.04 per hour.
• Opportunity to work within a supportive and experienced team.
• Regular supervision and management support.
• Varied and rewarding caseload.
• Collaborative multi-agency working environment.
• Opportunity to make a meaningful difference to the lives of children and young people in care.
• Access to ongoing learning and professional development opportunities.

If you are a committed Social Worker with experience supporting Looked After Children and are looking for your next opportunity within a well-established local authority, we would love to hear from you.

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

Redbridge Council is seeking experienced Social Workers and Senior Social Workers to join their innovative Family Help Service. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking team that brings together Early Help, Community Social Work, and Child Protection Assessment to provide seamless support for children and families.

The Family Help model ensures children receive the right support at the right time, with no step-ups or step-downs between services. Practitioners work across the continuum of need, building strong relationships with families and delivering creative, strengths-based interventions that improve outcomes and keep children safe.

What makes Family Help different?

• Integrated support from Early Help through to statutory intervention
• Manageable caseloads that allow for meaningful direct work
• Relationship-based practice at the heart of service delivery
• Creative and bespoke interventions tailored to family needs
• Strong multi-agency working and community partnerships
• Excellent opportunities for learning, development, and progression

In this role, you will:

• Work intensively with children and families to build trust and create positive change
• Undertake assessments and develop plans for Child in Need, Child Protection, and Looked After Children cases
• Manage a caseload across both Early Help and statutory services
• Complete Section 17 and Section 47 assessments where required
• Work collaboratively with Early Help practitioners, Family Support Workers, and partner agencies
• Develop and implement creative interventions that reduce risk and promote resilience
• Undertake court work, including pre-proceedings and post-proceedings processes
• Participate in the team duty rota (1 week in every 8)
• Contribute to innovative safeguarding strategies and best practice development
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings and reports

What You’ll Need:

• Social Work England Registration
• Social Work Qualification
• Minimum 1 year's post-qualified experience (more required for Senior Social Worker positions)
• Experience working within Children's Services
• Strong understanding of safeguarding, Child in Need, Child Protection, and Looked After Children processes
• Court work, pre-proceedings, or legal planning experience
• Ability to manage complex cases and work effectively under pressure
• Strong assessment, analytical, and communication skills
• Commitment to relationship-based and strengths-focused practice

Why Sheldon Phillips?

Because we actually listen to what you need. We’re not just here to fill roles—we’re here to find you the right fit in a supportive and rewarding team. That’s why social workers trust us to help them take the next step in their careers.

If you want to know more about this Social Worker / Senior Social Worker – Family Help role in Redbridge, give Ellis Russell a call on 01635 226350 – let’s have a chat!

And don’t forget – if you refer a friend and we place them, you’ll get £300 as a thank you! (Terms and conditions apply).

Essex County Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join their Children in Care Team. This is a rewarding role focused on supporting children and young people in care, ensuring they achieve stability, permanence, and positive long-term outcomes.

You will manage a caseload of Children in Care, working closely with carers, families, and partner agencies to deliver high-quality care planning and promote the welfare and development of children and young people.

Working Pattern:

• 37 hours per week
• Hybrid working arrangement

In this role, you will:

• Manage a caseload of Children in Care
• Undertake statutory visits and maintain meaningful relationships with children and young people
• Develop, implement, and review care plans and permanence plans
• Support permanence planning, including reunification, long-term fostering, Special Guardianship, and adoption where appropriate
• Attend and contribute to Children in Care Reviews and multi-agency meetings
• Work closely with foster carers, residential providers, schools, health professionals, and partner agencies
• Advocate for children and ensure their voices are central to planning and decision-making
• Prepare high-quality assessments, reports, and care planning documentation
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings

What You’ll Need:

• Social Work England Registration
• Social Work Qualification
• At least 3 years’ post-qualified experience in children’s social care
• Experience within a Children in Care or Looked After Children service
• Strong knowledge of care planning and permanence planning processes
• Ability to build positive relationships with children, carers, and professionals
• Excellent assessment, analytical, and communication skills
• Strong organisational and case management abilities

Why Sheldon Phillips?

Because we actually listen to what you need. We’re not just here to fill roles—we’re here to find you the right fit in a supportive and rewarding team. That’s why social workers trust us to help them take the next step in their careers.

If you want to know more about this Social Worker – Children in Care role with Essex County Council, give Ellis Russell a call on 01635 226350 – let’s have a chat!

And don’t forget – if you refer a friend and we place them, you’ll get £300 as a thank you! (Terms and conditions apply).

Luton Borough Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join their Looked After Children Team. This is a rewarding role focused on supporting children in care, promoting stability, and ensuring positive outcomes through effective care planning and relationship-based practice.

You will manage a caseload of Looked After Children, working closely with carers, families, and partner agencies to ensure children receive the support they need to thrive and achieve permanence.

In this role, you will:

• Manage a caseload of Looked After Children
• Undertake statutory visits and maintain meaningful relationships with children and young people
• Develop, implement, and review care plans and permanence plans
• Support children through long-term fostering, Special Guardianship, reunification, and adoption planning where appropriate
• Attend and contribute to Looked After Child Reviews and professional meetings
• Work closely with foster carers, residential providers, schools, health professionals, and partner agencies
• Progress care planning and court-related work where required
• Prepare high-quality assessments, reports, and care planning documentation
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings

What You’ll Need:

• Social Work England Registration
• Social Work Qualification
• At least 3 years’ post-qualified experience in children’s social care
• Experience within a Looked After Children service
• Strong knowledge of care planning and permanence planning processes
• Ability to build effective relationships with children, carers, and professionals
• Court work experience desirable
• Excellent assessment, analytical, and communication skills

Why Sheldon Phillips?

Because we actually listen to what you need. We’re not just here to fill roles—we’re here to find you the right fit in a supportive and rewarding team. That’s why social workers trust us to help them take the next step in their careers.

If you want to know more about this Social Worker – Looked After Children role in Luton, give Ellis Russell a call on 01635 226350 – let’s have a chat!

And don’t forget – if you refer a friend and we place them, you’ll get £300 as a thank you! (Terms and conditions apply).

Achieving for Children | Maidenhead

£42 per hour | Hybrid Working Available

Key Highlights

• Senior Social Worker opportunity within a well-established Support & Safeguarding Service
• Excellent pay rate of £42 per hour
• Hybrid working model offering flexibility and work-life balance
• Manage complex child protection, CIN and court work cases
• Join a high-performing authority committed to achieving outstanding outcomes for children and families
• Supportive management structure and strong multi-agency partnerships
• Based at the Maidenhead office

Are you an experienced Social Worker looking to take the next step in your career within a supportive and progressive local authority? We are currently recruiting for a Senior Social Worker to join the Support & Safeguarding Service at Achieving for Children.

This is an excellent opportunity to work with children and families at the point where meaningful intervention can make a lasting difference. You'll be part of a service dedicated to safeguarding children, reducing risk, and supporting families to achieve positive and sustainable outcomes.

About the Authority

Achieving for Children is widely recognised for its child-centred approach, strong leadership, and commitment to staff development. The organisation places a significant emphasis on relationship-based practice, manageable caseloads, and creating an environment where social workers can thrive professionally.

You will be joining a service that values innovation, reflective supervision, continuous learning, and collaborative working, ensuring practitioners have the support they need to deliver outstanding outcomes for vulnerable children and young people.

Key Responsibilities

• Hold and manage a complex caseload of children and families within Child Protection, Child in Need and Public Law frameworks.
• Undertake comprehensive assessments and formulate effective plans that promote positive outcomes and reduce risk.
• Lead on complex safeguarding investigations and child protection enquiries.
• Prepare high-quality reports and assessments for court proceedings and statutory meetings.
• Chair and contribute to professional meetings, strategy discussions and multi-agency planning forums.
• Build effective relationships with children, young people, families and partner agencies.
• Provide mentoring and informal support to less experienced social workers where appropriate.
• Ensure all statutory responsibilities are fulfilled within required timescales and legislation.

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification.
• Registered with Social Work England.
• Significant post-qualified experience within Children's Services.
• Strong experience within Safeguarding, Child Protection, Child in Need and Court Work.
• Ability to manage complex risk and make confident evidence-based decisions.
• Excellent assessment, report writing and analytical skills.
• Strong knowledge of relevant legislation, statutory guidance and safeguarding procedures.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle is desirable.

Why Work With Us?

• £42 per hour competitive rate
• Hybrid working arrangement
• Supportive and experienced management team
• Regular reflective supervision
• Opportunity to work within a respected and high-performing authority
• Access to training and professional development opportunities
• Collaborative and positive team culture
• Opportunity to make a genuine impact on the lives of vulnerable children and families
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your assignment
• Referral bonus available for successful recommendations

Apply Now

For more information or to discuss this opportunity confidentially, please contact:

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

Position: Social Worker – Remote Support
Team: Children's Services
Contract: Agency Contract
Hours: Full-time
Pay Rate: Up to £38 per hour 
Office Base: County Hall, Exeter
Working Pattern: Remote working considered due to the nature of the role
Allowance: £150 per week accommodation/commuter allowance (subject to eligibility guidelines and currently under review at the end of March 2026)

Sheldon Phillips are working with Devon County Council to recruit an experienced Social Worker to join their Children's Services team in a unique non-case holding position. This role is ideal for practitioners who excel in written practice and thrive in fast-paced environments where high-quality recording and administrative support are essential to frontline safeguarding work.

Working closely with a Duty Manager, you will provide vital support to operational teams by ensuring children's records are accurate, comprehensive, and up to date. This is an excellent opportunity for experienced social workers seeking greater flexibility, including remote working arrangements, whilst continuing to make a meaningful impact on outcomes for children and families.

Role Overview:

This is a non-case holding role focused on delivering high-quality written and administrative social work support across Children's Services. You will play a key role in helping teams manage periods of increased demand by completing essential documentation and maintaining accurate case records.

Key Responsibilities:

• Complete duty forms and respond promptly to priority requests.
• Update and maintain children's case files to ensure records remain accurate and current.
• Produce clear and comprehensive chronologies, case summaries, and other essential written documentation.
• Support frontline teams with timely and accurate recording during periods of duty demand.
• Work efficiently and effectively within fast-moving environments whilst maintaining attention to detail.
• Prioritise competing tasks and manage workload in collaboration with the Duty Manager.
• Ensure all written work reflects high standards of professional practice and statutory requirements.
• Contribute to positive outcomes for children and families through robust recording and administrative support.

Benefits:

• Competitive pay rate of up to £38 per hour, dependent on experience.
• Remote working opportunities available.
• £150 per week accommodation/commuter allowance for eligible candidates.
• Non-case holding role offering an alternative way to utilise your social work expertise.
• Structured support and oversight from an experienced Duty Manager.
• Opportunity to support frontline safeguarding services whilst benefiting from increased flexibility.

Requirements:

• Social Work England registration.
• Qualified Social Worker status.
• A minimum of 3 years' post-qualifying experience.
• Excellent written communication and recording skills.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to work at pace and manage competing priorities.
• Experience working within Children's Services.
• Ability to produce clear, analytical chronologies, summaries, and professional documentation.
• Confidence working independently within a remotely supported environment.

Application Process:

• Shortlisted candidates will be required to complete a 30-minute online pre-interview assessment as part of the selection process.

Interested?

If you're an experienced Children's Social Worker looking for a flexible, non-case holding opportunity where your written practice skills can make a real difference, we'd love to hear from you.

For more information or to apply, please contact:

Emily Cooper at Sheldon Phillips - 07745 200325 | ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

Position: Social Worker – Remote Support
Team: Children's Services
Contract: Agency Contract
Hours: Full-time
Pay Rate: Up to £38 per hour 
Office Base: County Hall, Exeter
Working Pattern: Remote working considered due to the nature of the role
Allowance: £150 per week accommodation/commuter allowance (subject to eligibility guidelines and currently under review at the end of March 2026)

Sheldon Phillips are working with Devon County Council to recruit an experienced Social Worker to join their Children's Services team in a unique non-case holding position. This role is ideal for practitioners who excel in written practice and thrive in fast-paced environments where high-quality recording and administrative support are essential to frontline safeguarding work.

Working closely with a Duty Manager, you will provide vital support to operational teams by ensuring children's records are accurate, comprehensive, and up to date. This is an excellent opportunity for experienced social workers seeking greater flexibility, including remote working arrangements, whilst continuing to make a meaningful impact on outcomes for children and families.

Role Overview:

This is a non-case holding role focused on delivering high-quality written and administrative social work support across Children's Services. You will play a key role in helping teams manage periods of increased demand by completing essential documentation and maintaining accurate case records.

Key Responsibilities:

• Complete duty forms and respond promptly to priority requests.
• Update and maintain children's case files to ensure records remain accurate and current.
• Produce clear and comprehensive chronologies, case summaries, and other essential written documentation.
• Support frontline teams with timely and accurate recording during periods of duty demand.
• Work efficiently and effectively within fast-moving environments whilst maintaining attention to detail.
• Prioritise competing tasks and manage workload in collaboration with the Duty Manager.
• Ensure all written work reflects high standards of professional practice and statutory requirements.
• Contribute to positive outcomes for children and families through robust recording and administrative support.

Benefits:

• Competitive pay rate of up to £38 per hour, dependent on experience.
• Remote working opportunities available.
• £150 per week accommodation/commuter allowance for eligible candidates.
• Non-case holding role offering an alternative way to utilise your social work expertise.
• Structured support and oversight from an experienced Duty Manager.
• Opportunity to support frontline safeguarding services whilst benefiting from increased flexibility.

Requirements:

• Social Work England registration.
• Qualified Social Worker status.
• A minimum of 3 years' post-qualifying experience.
• Excellent written communication and recording skills.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to work at pace and manage competing priorities.
• Experience working within Children's Services.
• Ability to produce clear, analytical chronologies, summaries, and professional documentation.
• Confidence working independently within a remotely supported environment.

Application Process:

• Shortlisted candidates will be required to complete a 30-minute online pre-interview assessment as part of the selection process.

Interested?

If you're an experienced Children's Social Worker looking for a flexible, non-case holding opportunity where your written practice skills can make a real difference, we'd love to hear from you.

For more information or to apply, please contact:

Emily Cooper at Sheldon Phillips - 07745 200325 | ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

Position: Social Worker – Remote Support
Team: Children's Services
Contract: Agency Contract
Hours: Full-time
Pay Rate: Up to £38 per hour 
Office Base: County Hall, Exeter
Working Pattern: Remote working considered due to the nature of the role
Allowance: £150 per week accommodation/commuter allowance (subject to eligibility guidelines and currently under review at the end of March 2026)

Sheldon Phillips are working with Devon County Council to recruit an experienced Social Worker to join their Children's Services team in a unique non-case holding position. This role is ideal for practitioners who excel in written practice and thrive in fast-paced environments where high-quality recording and administrative support are essential to frontline safeguarding work.

Working closely with a Duty Manager, you will provide vital support to operational teams by ensuring children's records are accurate, comprehensive, and up to date. This is an excellent opportunity for experienced social workers seeking greater flexibility, including remote working arrangements, whilst continuing to make a meaningful impact on outcomes for children and families.

Role Overview:

This is a non-case holding role focused on delivering high-quality written and administrative social work support across Children's Services. You will play a key role in helping teams manage periods of increased demand by completing essential documentation and maintaining accurate case records.

Key Responsibilities:

• Complete duty forms and respond promptly to priority requests.
• Update and maintain children's case files to ensure records remain accurate and current.
• Produce clear and comprehensive chronologies, case summaries, and other essential written documentation.
• Support frontline teams with timely and accurate recording during periods of duty demand.
• Work efficiently and effectively within fast-moving environments whilst maintaining attention to detail.
• Prioritise competing tasks and manage workload in collaboration with the Duty Manager.
• Ensure all written work reflects high standards of professional practice and statutory requirements.
• Contribute to positive outcomes for children and families through robust recording and administrative support.

Benefits:

• Competitive pay rate of up to £38 per hour, dependent on experience.
• Remote working opportunities available.
• £150 per week accommodation/commuter allowance for eligible candidates.
• Non-case holding role offering an alternative way to utilise your social work expertise.
• Structured support and oversight from an experienced Duty Manager.
• Opportunity to support frontline safeguarding services whilst benefiting from increased flexibility.

Requirements:

• Social Work England registration.
• Qualified Social Worker status.
• A minimum of 3 years' post-qualifying experience.
• Excellent written communication and recording skills.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to work at pace and manage competing priorities.
• Experience working within Children's Services.
• Ability to produce clear, analytical chronologies, summaries, and professional documentation.
• Confidence working independently within a remotely supported environment.

Application Process:

• Shortlisted candidates will be required to complete a 30-minute online pre-interview assessment as part of the selection process.

Interested?

If you're an experienced Children's Social Worker looking for a flexible, non-case holding opportunity where your written practice skills can make a real difference, we'd love to hear from you.

For more information or to apply, please contact:

Emily Cooper at Sheldon Phillips - 07745 200325 | ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

Position: Social Worker – Remote Support
Team: Children's Services
Contract: Agency Contract
Hours: Full-time
Pay Rate: Up to £38 per hour 
Office Base: County Hall, Exeter
Working Pattern: Remote working considered due to the nature of the role
Allowance: £150 per week accommodation/commuter allowance (subject to eligibility guidelines and currently under review at the end of March 2026)

Sheldon Phillips are working with Devon County Council to recruit an experienced Social Worker to join their Children's Services team in a unique non-case holding position. This role is ideal for practitioners who excel in written practice and thrive in fast-paced environments where high-quality recording and administrative support are essential to frontline safeguarding work.

Working closely with a Duty Manager, you will provide vital support to operational teams by ensuring children's records are accurate, comprehensive, and up to date. This is an excellent opportunity for experienced social workers seeking greater flexibility, including remote working arrangements, whilst continuing to make a meaningful impact on outcomes for children and families.

Role Overview:

This is a non-case holding role focused on delivering high-quality written and administrative social work support across Children's Services. You will play a key role in helping teams manage periods of increased demand by completing essential documentation and maintaining accurate case records.

Key Responsibilities:

• Complete duty forms and respond promptly to priority requests.
• Update and maintain children's case files to ensure records remain accurate and current.
• Produce clear and comprehensive chronologies, case summaries, and other essential written documentation.
• Support frontline teams with timely and accurate recording during periods of duty demand.
• Work efficiently and effectively within fast-moving environments whilst maintaining attention to detail.
• Prioritise competing tasks and manage workload in collaboration with the Duty Manager.
• Ensure all written work reflects high standards of professional practice and statutory requirements.
• Contribute to positive outcomes for children and families through robust recording and administrative support.

Benefits:

• Competitive pay rate of up to £38 per hour, dependent on experience.
• Remote working opportunities available.
• £150 per week accommodation/commuter allowance for eligible candidates.
• Non-case holding role offering an alternative way to utilise your social work expertise.
• Structured support and oversight from an experienced Duty Manager.
• Opportunity to support frontline safeguarding services whilst benefiting from increased flexibility.

Requirements:

• Social Work England registration.
• Qualified Social Worker status.
• A minimum of 3 years' post-qualifying experience.
• Excellent written communication and recording skills.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to work at pace and manage competing priorities.
• Experience working within Children's Services.
• Ability to produce clear, analytical chronologies, summaries, and professional documentation.
• Confidence working independently within a remotely supported environment.

Application Process:

• Shortlisted candidates will be required to complete a 30-minute online pre-interview assessment as part of the selection process.

Interested?

If you're an experienced Children's Social Worker looking for a flexible, non-case holding opportunity where your written practice skills can make a real difference, we'd love to hear from you.

For more information or to apply, please contact:

Emily Cooper at Sheldon Phillips - 07745 200325 | ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

Position: Social Worker – Remote Support
Team: Children's Services
Contract: Agency Contract
Hours: Full-time
Pay Rate: Up to £38 per hour 
Office Base: County Hall, Exeter
Working Pattern: Remote working considered due to the nature of the role
Allowance: £150 per week accommodation/commuter allowance (subject to eligibility guidelines and currently under review at the end of March 2026)

Sheldon Phillips are working with Devon County Council to recruit an experienced Social Worker to join their Children's Services team in a unique non-case holding position. This role is ideal for practitioners who excel in written practice and thrive in fast-paced environments where high-quality recording and administrative support are essential to frontline safeguarding work.

Working closely with a Duty Manager, you will provide vital support to operational teams by ensuring children's records are accurate, comprehensive, and up to date. This is an excellent opportunity for experienced social workers seeking greater flexibility, including remote working arrangements, whilst continuing to make a meaningful impact on outcomes for children and families.

Role Overview:

This is a non-case holding role focused on delivering high-quality written and administrative social work support across Children's Services. You will play a key role in helping teams manage periods of increased demand by completing essential documentation and maintaining accurate case records.

Key Responsibilities:

• Complete duty forms and respond promptly to priority requests.
• Update and maintain children's case files to ensure records remain accurate and current.
• Produce clear and comprehensive chronologies, case summaries, and other essential written documentation.
• Support frontline teams with timely and accurate recording during periods of duty demand.
• Work efficiently and effectively within fast-moving environments whilst maintaining attention to detail.
• Prioritise competing tasks and manage workload in collaboration with the Duty Manager.
• Ensure all written work reflects high standards of professional practice and statutory requirements.
• Contribute to positive outcomes for children and families through robust recording and administrative support.

Benefits:

• Competitive pay rate of up to £38 per hour, dependent on experience.
• Remote working opportunities available.
• £150 per week accommodation/commuter allowance for eligible candidates.
• Non-case holding role offering an alternative way to utilise your social work expertise.
• Structured support and oversight from an experienced Duty Manager.
• Opportunity to support frontline safeguarding services whilst benefiting from increased flexibility.

Requirements:

• Social Work England registration.
• Qualified Social Worker status.
• A minimum of 3 years' post-qualifying experience.
• Excellent written communication and recording skills.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to work at pace and manage competing priorities.
• Experience working within Children's Services.
• Ability to produce clear, analytical chronologies, summaries, and professional documentation.
• Confidence working independently within a remotely supported environment.

Application Process:

• Shortlisted candidates will be required to complete a 30-minute online pre-interview assessment as part of the selection process.

Interested?

If you're an experienced Children's Social Worker looking for a flexible, non-case holding opportunity where your written practice skills can make a real difference, we'd love to hear from you.

For more information or to apply, please contact:

Emily Cooper at Sheldon Phillips - 07745 200325 | ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

Herefordshire Council is looking to recruit a committed and capable Children’s Social Worker to join its Assessment & Support Service on a permanent basis.

This is an opportunity to join a local authority that is continuing to strengthen children’s services and invest in high-quality practice. Working across locality-based teams in Hereford, Ross-on-Wye and Leominster, you will be part of a service focused on timely intervention, collaborative working and achieving the best possible outcomes for children and families.

The Assessment & Support Service is made up of three teams, each operating from a locality office and made up of a Team Manager, Senior Practitioner, Social Workers and Family Support Workers. This structure supports close team working, accessible management oversight and strong professional support.

Herefordshire’s approach to practice is rooted in restorative social work. Reflection, collaboration and relationship-based work are central to how the service operates, and managers are available to offer support when complexity and risk require clear guidance.

A short video about working in Herefordshire Children’s Services can be viewed here:
https://youtu.be/FSjU-FV5uic

The role

As a Social Worker in the Assessment & Support Team, you will play a vital role in responding to children, young people and families at the point they need help most.

You will complete timely, high-quality assessments to understand the needs, risks and strengths within each family, ensuring that children’s voices remain central to planning and decision-making. Your role will involve working directly with children and families, alongside colleagues across the directorate and partner agencies, to determine the most appropriate support and intervention.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Responding to referrals in a timely and child-focused way
• Completing assessments that are analytical, evidence-based and outcome-focused
• Identifying risk, need and protective factors to inform decision-making
• Investigating concerns and determining the most appropriate support for children and families
• Working collaboratively with families and professionals to promote positive and sustainable change
• Taking decisive action where children require safeguarding and protection

This is a frontline role that requires sound judgement, strong assessment skills and the ability to work purposefully with families from the earliest point of involvement.

Herefordshire is continuing its improvement journey, and this post offers the chance to make a real contribution to the development of the service while improving outcomes for children and young people across the county.

We are looking for a Social Worker who brings both strong professional capability and a clear commitment to improving the lives of children and families.

To be considered, you should be able to demonstrate:

• A strong commitment to achieving positive outcomes for children and families through high-quality assessment and timely intervention
• Good analytical, planning and decision-making skills, with the ability to understand and respond to each child’s individual needs
• Confidence in working collaboratively with families, colleagues and partner agencies
• The resilience and professional judgement needed to manage complex situations effectively
• A reflective and thoughtful approach to practice, with a commitment to learning and development
• The ability to work well in a supportive but fast-paced team environment
• A child-centred approach that keeps safety, wellbeing and long-term outcomes at the forefront of practice

You must also hold:

• A recognised Social Work qualification such as Degree in Social Work, DipSW or CQSW
• Current Social Work England registration

What Herefordshire offers

Herefordshire Council offers a strong package of salary, benefits and professional support, including:

• Salary from £36,363 to £40,777
• Annual market supplement of £5,000
• £10,000 welcome payment subject to guidance
• Retention payment of £2,000 to £4,000, depending on team
• Relocation support of up to £10,000
• Protected time and investment in professional development
• Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme
• Clear progression opportunities and career pathways
• 31 days annual leave, plus bank holidays
• The option to purchase up to 10 additional days leave
• Flexible working arrangements, including agile working, part-time working and job share where appropriate
• Access to an Employee Assistance Programme
• Payment of professional membership fees where applicable
• A benefits package offering discounts, savings and cashback across retail, travel, leisure and health

Why join Herefordshire?

Herefordshire is a historic and distinctive county on the Welsh border, known for its market towns, rural communities and strong sense of place. More importantly, it is a local authority committed to strengthening children’s services and supporting the workforce behind them.

The council’s priority is straightforward: to keep children safe and help them achieve the best possible start in life. That commitment is supported by investment in relational practice, experienced leadership and ongoing professional development, alongside partnership working with Leeds City Council as improvement partner.

This is an excellent opportunity for a Social Worker who wants to join a supportive service, develop their practice and make a meaningful difference to children and families.

If you are ready for your next move in children’s services, Herefordshire would like to hear from you.

• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements to promote work-life balance
• Market rate supplement of £5,000 per year
• £10,000 welcome payment for experienced Social Workers joining the team
• Relocation package support up to £10,000
• Clear progression routes and CPD opportunities with protected learning time
• A supportive team culture and strong leadership focus

• Undertake child and family assessments, identifying needs and risks in line with statutory guidance
• Develop and implement care and support plans to ensure the best outcomes for children
• Manage complex caseloads, including safeguarding and child protection cases
• Prepare and present reports for court proceedings and multi-agency meetings
• Work in partnership with families, schools, health professionals and partner agencies
• Maintain accurate case records and ensure compliance with statutory duties

• SWE Registration
• Recognised Social Work qualification (Degree/DipSW/CQSW)
• Post-qualified experience in safeguarding/child protection work
• Strong assessment, planning and risk management skills
• Experience of working within a multi-agency setting and attending court
• A proactive, child-centred approach with resilience and flexibility

• Market rate supplement of £5,000 per year
• £10,000 welcome payment for experienced Social Workers
• Relocation package support of up to £10,000
• Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
• Professional development with protected time and budget
• Clear career progression pathways
• 31 days annual leave plus bank holidays, with option to purchase up to 10 more days
• Flexible working options, including job-share, part-time and home working
• Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 counselling support
• Payment of professional membership fees
• “Pick your perks” access to retail, holiday and health discounts

Sheldon Phillips are working in partnership with Westmorland and Furness Council to recruit experienced Social Workers to join their Locality Teams. This is an excellent opportunity to become part of a supportive service committed to relationship-based practice, early intervention and achieving the best possible outcomes for children and families.

Working within the Locality Team, you'll manage a varied and rewarding caseload, supporting children and their families through assessment, planning and intervention. You'll have the opportunity to build meaningful relationships, work collaboratively with partner agencies and make a genuine difference to the lives of vulnerable children and young people across the area.

Role Overview

As a Locality Social Worker, you will hold responsibility for children and families requiring statutory intervention. You'll undertake assessments, manage Child in Need and Child Protection plans, complete safeguarding enquiries and progress cases through pre-proceedings where required, ensuring children receive the right support at the right time.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a diverse caseload of children and families within statutory Children's Services.
• Undertake Child and Family Assessments in line with statutory guidance and timescales.
• Complete Section 47 enquiries and safeguarding investigations.
• Develop, implement and review Child in Need and Child Protection plans.
• Carry out direct work with children and families to reduce risk and promote positive change.
• Attend and contribute to strategy discussions, core groups and child protection conferences.
• Progress cases through the Public Law Outline (PLO) process where necessary.
• Work closely with multi-agency partners, including education, health and police colleagues.
• Prepare high-quality assessments, reports and case recordings.
• Participate in regular supervision and contribute to ongoing service improvement.

Benefits

• Competitive pay rate of £45 per hour.
• Opportunity to work within a supportive and stable Locality Service.
• Relationship-based approach to practice.
• Hybrid working arrangements.
• Regular supervision and management support.
• Diverse and rewarding caseloads.
• Immediate interview and start opportunities available.

Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification.
• Current Social Work England registration.
• Previous experience within Children's Locality, Safeguarding or Assessment Teams.
• Strong knowledge of safeguarding legislation and statutory processes.
• Experience undertaking Child and Family Assessments and Section 47 enquiries.
• Excellent assessment, analytical and report-writing skills.
• Ability to build effective relationships with children, families and partner agencies.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.
• Commitment to achieving positive outcomes for children and young people.

Interested?

If you're looking for your next locum opportunity within a forward-thinking local authority that values high-quality practice and supports its workforce, we'd love to hear from you.

Emily Cooper at Sheldon Phillips - 07745 200325 | ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

Sheldon Phillips are working in partnership with Birmingham Children's Trust to recruit an experienced Senior Practitioner to join their Learning Team. This is a fantastic opportunity for an accomplished practitioner who is passionate about professional development, quality practice and supporting others to achieve excellent outcomes for children and families.

The Learning Team plays a key role in developing and embedding high-quality social work practice across the organisation. Working closely with practitioners, managers and partners, you will support the delivery of learning initiatives, promote continuous improvement and contribute to the development of a confident and skilled workforce.

Role Overview

As a Senior Practitioner within the Learning Team, you will use your extensive frontline experience to support the learning and development of social workers across Birmingham Children's Trust. You will contribute to the design and delivery of training, facilitate reflective learning opportunities and help ensure that practice remains child-focused, evidence-informed and aligned with statutory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the delivery of the Trust's learning and development programme.
• Design and facilitate training sessions, workshops and practice development activities.
• Provide coaching, mentoring and guidance to practitioners across Children's Services.
• Promote reflective practice and support practitioners to identify learning needs.
• Contribute to the induction and development of newly qualified and experienced social workers.
• Support the implementation of new legislation, policies and practice frameworks.
• Assist with practice audits and identify themes to inform future learning.
• Work collaboratively with operational teams and managers to embed good practice.
• Contribute to service improvement initiatives and organisational learning.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of legislation, research and developments within children's social care.

Benefits

• Opportunity to shape and influence practice across Birmingham Children's Trust.
• A varied and rewarding role focused on workforce development and improvement.
• Supportive leadership and collaborative working environment.
• Opportunity to share expertise and develop others.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
• Immediate interview and start opportunities available.

Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification.
• Current Social Work England registration.
• Significant post-qualified experience within Children's Services.
• Previous experience as a Senior Practitioner, Advanced Practitioner, Practice Educator or within a learning and development function is desirable.
• Strong understanding of children's legislation, safeguarding and best practice.
• Experience delivering training, mentoring or supporting practitioner development.
• Excellent communication, presentation and facilitation skills.
• Passion for continuous improvement and developing others.

Interested?

If you're looking for an opportunity to utilise your practice expertise to support the development of others and influence high-quality social work practice, we'd love to hear from you.

Emily Cooper
Sheldon Phillips
📞 07745 200325
✉️ ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

Sheldon Phillips are working in partnership with Staffordshire County Council to recruit experienced Social Workers to join their Assessment and Staying Together Teams across the county.

These teams play a vital role in supporting children and families at a point where timely intervention and effective relationship-based practice can make a lasting difference. Staffordshire's approach focuses on keeping families together wherever it is safe to do so, ensuring children receive the right support at the right time while promoting stability and positive outcomes.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a supportive local authority offering hybrid working, manageable expectations and the chance to work within services committed to restorative practice and achieving the best outcomes for children and young people.

Role Overview

As a Social Worker within the Assessment and Staying Together Teams, you will undertake statutory assessments, lead safeguarding interventions and work intensively with children and families where there are concerns regarding a child's welfare. You'll build strong relationships with families, identify strengths and risks, and work collaboratively with partner agencies to develop plans that help children remain safely within their family networks wherever possible.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake Child and Family Assessments in line with statutory guidance and timescales.
• Complete Section 47 enquiries and lead safeguarding investigations.
• Manage Child in Need and Child Protection cases.
• Develop and review effective plans to reduce risk and improve outcomes.
• Undertake direct work with children and families using a strengths-based approach.
• Progress cases through Public Law Outline (PLO) where required.
• Work closely with multi-agency partners, including education, health and police services.
• Prepare high-quality assessments, reports and case recordings.
• Attend strategy discussions, child protection conferences and core groups.
• Identify wider family networks and support arrangements to promote children remaining safely at home where appropriate.
• Participate in regular supervision and contribute positively to team development.

Benefits

• Competitive pay rates of £38–£40 per hour.
• Hybrid working with 2 days per week in the office.
• Opportunities available across Staffordshire.
• Supportive management and regular reflective supervision.
• A restorative, relationship-based approach to practice.
• Diverse and rewarding caseloads focused on achieving positive outcomes.
• Immediate interview and start opportunities available.

Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification.
• Current Social Work England registration.
• Post-qualified experience within Children's Services.
• Experience undertaking assessments and safeguarding work.
• Knowledge of Child in Need, Child Protection and Public Law processes.
• Strong assessment, analytical and report-writing skills.
• Ability to work effectively within a multi-agency environment.
• Commitment to relationship-based practice and keeping families together wherever safe to do so.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.

Interested?

If you're looking for your next locum opportunity within a supportive and forward-thinking authority, we'd love to hear from you.

Emily Cooper at Sheldon Phillips - 07745 200325 | ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

Sheldon Phillips are working in partnership with Manchester City Council to recruit an experienced Social Worker to join their Locality and Court Team. This is an excellent opportunity to join a stable and supportive service where you'll manage a varied caseload of children and families, undertaking safeguarding, court work and long-term planning to achieve positive outcomes.

The team works with children subject to Child in Need, Child Protection and Public Law Outline processes, progressing cases through court proceedings where necessary. You'll be joining a collaborative service with experienced management support and a strong focus on relationship-based practice.

Role Overview

As a Social Worker within the Locality and Court Team, you will hold responsibility for complex children's cases from assessment through to permanence planning. You will complete statutory assessments, manage child protection plans, undertake pre-proceedings work and prepare cases for court where required.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of children and families requiring statutory intervention.
• Complete Child and Family Assessments to identify risk and need.
• Undertake Section 47 enquiries and safeguarding investigations.
• Develop and review Child in Need and Child Protection Plans.
• Lead direct work with children and families to reduce risk and improve outcomes.
• Prepare court reports, statements and care plans.
• Attend Public Law Outline (PLO) meetings and court hearings.
• Work closely with legal services and multi-agency partners.
• Ensure all case recordings and assessments are completed to a high standard and within timescales.
• Participate in supervision and contribute to service development.

Benefits

• £35 per hour.
• Hybrid working arrangements.
• Supportive management team and regular supervision.
• Diverse and rewarding caseload.
• Opportunity to gain valuable court and safeguarding experience within a well-established local authority.
• Immediate start available.

Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification.
• Social Work England registration.
• Experience within Children's Services, ideally within Locality, Safeguarding or Court Teams.
• Strong assessment and analytical skills.
• Experience of court work and preparing legal documentation.
• Ability to build effective relationships with children, families and partner agencies.
• Commitment to achieving positive outcomes for children and young people.

Interested?

If you're interested in discussing this opportunity further, please get in touch.

Emily Cooper at Sheldon Phillips - 07745200325 | ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

Advanced Social Worker – Child Protection Team

Pay Rate: £35 per hour
Hours: 37.5 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

Derbyshire County Council is seeking an experienced Advanced Social Worker to join its Child Protection Team.
You will work with children and families where safeguarding concerns have been identified, undertaking complex assessments and interventions to ensure children are protected and supported effectively.

As an Advanced Social Worker, you will play a key role in supporting high standards of practice, managing complex cases, and providing guidance to colleagues where required.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake Section 47 enquiries and Child and Family Assessments.
• Manage a complex caseload of Child Protection and Child in Need cases.
• Develop and implement robust safety and care plans.
• Provide support and guidance to less experienced social workers.
• Work collaboratively with partner agencies including health, education, and police.
• Prepare high-quality reports for conferences, reviews, and court proceedings.
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings.

Practice Model Used by Derbyshire

Derbyshire delivers children’s services using a Strengths-Based Practice Model supported by Signs of Safety.
This approach focuses on:

• Building collaborative relationships with children and families
• Identifying strengths and support networks
• Clear and transparent risk assessment
• Structured safety planning
• Reflective supervision and continuous professional development
• The model supports consistent, relationship-based practice across the service.

Why Derbyshire Is a Great Place to Live and Work

Derbyshire offers a fantastic balance of lifestyle and opportunity:

• Home to the stunning Peak District National Park, providing some of the UK's best countryside and outdoor activities.
• Affordable housing and a lower cost of living than many neighbouring regions.
• Friendly communities with excellent schools and local amenities.
• Excellent transport links to Derby, Nottingham, Sheffield, and Manchester.
• A supportive local authority committed to staff wellbeing, development, and improving outcomes for children.
• It’s a fantastic place to progress your social work career while enjoying an excellent quality of life.

Interested?

To apply, please send your CV to:
dmitchell@sheldon-phillips.com

For more information, call:
07561 805654

Social Worker – Fostering and Kinship Team

Pay Rate: £33.30 per hour
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

Staffordshire County Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join its Fostering and Kinship Team.
You will play a key role in assessing, supporting, and supervising foster carers and kinship carers, ensuring children are provided with safe, stable, and nurturing homes.

This role involves working closely with children, carers, and multi-agency professionals to promote permanence and achieve positive outcomes for children in care.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake fostering and kinship assessments, including connected persons assessments.
• Support and supervise foster carers and kinship carers.
• Complete annual reviews and statutory visits.
• Contribute to care planning and permanence planning for children.
• Prepare high-quality reports for fostering panels and court proceedings where required.
• Work collaboratively with children's social workers and partner agencies.
• Promote placement stability and positive outcomes for children.

Practice Model Used by Staffordshire

Staffordshire operates a Strengths-Based Practice Model, supported by Restorative Practice principles.
This approach focuses on:

• Building strong relationships with children, families, and carers
• Collaborative, solution-focused working
• Recognising strengths and support networks
• Transparent assessment and decision-making
• Reflective supervision and continuous professional development
• The model supports consistent, child-centred practice and positive outcomes.

Why Staffordshire Is a Great Place to Live and Work

Staffordshire offers an excellent balance of countryside living and modern convenience:

• Home to beautiful outdoor spaces including Cannock Chase and the nearby Peak District National Park.
• Affordable housing and lower living costs than many areas of the UK.
• Friendly communities with excellent schools and local amenities.
• Strong transport links to Birmingham, Manchester, and the wider Midlands region.
• A supportive local authority committed to staff wellbeing, professional development, and improving outcomes for children.
• It’s a fantastic place to build your career while enjoying a great quality of life.

Interested?

To apply, please send your CV to:
dmitchell@sheldon-phillips.com

For more information, call:
07561 805654

Social Worker – Fostering and Kinship Team

Pay Rate: £33.30 per hour
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

Staffordshire County Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join its Fostering and Kinship Team.
You will play a key role in assessing, supporting, and supervising foster carers and kinship carers, ensuring children are provided with safe, stable, and nurturing homes.

This role involves working closely with children, carers, and multi-agency professionals to promote permanence and achieve positive outcomes for children in care.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake fostering and kinship assessments, including connected persons assessments.
• Support and supervise foster carers and kinship carers.
• Complete annual reviews and statutory visits.
• Contribute to care planning and permanence planning for children.
• Prepare high-quality reports for fostering panels and court proceedings where required.
• Work collaboratively with children's social workers and partner agencies.
• Promote placement stability and positive outcomes for children.

Practice Model Used by Staffordshire

Staffordshire operates a Strengths-Based Practice Model, supported by Restorative Practice principles.
This approach focuses on:

• Building strong relationships with children, families, and carers
• Collaborative, solution-focused working
• Recognising strengths and support networks
• Transparent assessment and decision-making
• Reflective supervision and continuous professional development
• The model supports consistent, child-centred practice and positive outcomes.

Why Staffordshire Is a Great Place to Live and Work

Staffordshire offers an excellent balance of countryside living and modern convenience:

• Home to beautiful outdoor spaces including Cannock Chase and the nearby Peak District National Park.
• Affordable housing and lower living costs than many areas of the UK.
• Friendly communities with excellent schools and local amenities.
• Strong transport links to Birmingham, Manchester, and the wider Midlands region.
• A supportive local authority committed to staff wellbeing, professional development, and improving outcomes for children.
• It’s a fantastic place to build your career while enjoying a great quality of life.

Interested?

To apply, please send your CV to:
dmitchell@sheldon-phillips.com

For more information, call:
07561 805654

Slough Borough Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join their Child Protection Team. This is a frontline safeguarding role focused on protecting vulnerable children, managing risk, and supporting families through effective statutory intervention and relationship-based practice.

You will work with children and families subject to Child Protection and Child in Need plans, ensuring timely assessments, robust planning, and positive outcomes for children and young people.

In this role, you will:

• Manage a caseload of Child Protection and Child in Need cases
• Undertake Section 17 and Section 47 assessments and enquiries
• Develop and review Child Protection and safeguarding plans
• Complete statutory visits and direct work with children and families
• Lead and participate in child protection conferences, core groups, and multi-agency meetings
• Progress cases through pre-proceedings and care proceedings where required
• Work closely with partner agencies including schools, health professionals, and the police
• Prepare high-quality assessments, reports, and court documentation
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings

What You’ll Need:

• Social Work England Registration
• Social Work Qualification
• At least 3 years’ post-qualified experience in children’s social care
• Strong Child Protection and safeguarding experience
• Experience undertaking Section 17 and Section 47 investigations
• Court work and pre-proceedings experience desirable
• Confidence managing complex and high-risk cases
• Excellent assessment, analytical, and communication skills

Why Sheldon Phillips?

Because we actually listen to what you need. We’re not just here to fill roles—we’re here to find you the right fit in a supportive and rewarding team. That’s why social workers trust us to help them take the next step in their careers.

If you want to know more about this Social Worker – Child Protection role in Slough, give Ellis Russell a call on 01635 226350 – let’s have a chat!

And don’t forget – if you refer a friend and we place them, you’ll get £300 as a thank you! (Terms and conditions apply).

Bristol City Council

£42 per hour | Locum Opportunity | Child Protection Team | 1 Day per Week Working from Home

Key Highlights

• £42 per hour
• Advanced Social Worker opportunity
• Child Protection Team
• Locum contract
• 1 day per week working from home
• Complex and rewarding frontline practice
• Supportive leadership and strong team culture
• Opportunity to mentor and support less experienced practitioners
• Immediate interview and start opportunities available

Are you an experienced Advanced Social Worker looking for your next locum opportunity within a dedicated Child Protection Team? Bristol City Council is seeking a highly skilled practitioner to join its frontline service, working with children and families where robust safeguarding intervention is required to ensure children remain safe and achieve positive outcomes.

This is an excellent opportunity for an accomplished social worker who enjoys managing complex cases, supporting colleagues, and driving high-quality practice. Offering a competitive rate of £42 per hour, this role provides the chance to work within a progressive authority that values professional expertise and relationship-based social work.

About Bristol City Council

Bristol City Council is committed to delivering outstanding services for children and families through strong partnerships, effective safeguarding practice, and a child-centred approach. The authority continues to invest in its workforce, ensuring practitioners have access to regular supervision, learning opportunities, and supportive management.

The Child Protection Team works with children and families where significant concerns have been identified, managing Child Protection Plans, Public Law Outline processes, and pre-proceedings work. As an Advanced Social Worker, you will play a key role in delivering high-quality interventions while providing guidance and support to colleagues across the team.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a service that values professional judgement, reflective practice, and collaborative working to achieve the best possible outcomes for vulnerable children and young people.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a complex caseload of children subject to Child Protection Plans and statutory intervention.
• Undertake comprehensive assessments, risk analysis, and safety planning.
• Lead Child Protection and Child in Need planning processes.
• Complete Section 47 investigations and contribute to strategy discussions.
• Progress Public Law Outline and pre-proceedings work where required.
• Undertake direct work with children, young people, and families to promote positive change.
• Prepare high-quality assessments, reports, and court documentation.
• Attend Child Protection Conferences, Core Groups, Legal Planning Meetings, and court hearings.
• Provide mentoring, guidance, and informal support to less experienced social workers.
• Work collaboratively with education, health, police, legal services, and partner agencies.
• Maintain accurate and timely case recording in accordance with statutory requirements.

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification.
• Registered with the Social Work England.
• Significant experience within Child Protection, Safeguarding, or Locality Services.
• Strong understanding of safeguarding legislation, statutory guidance, and court processes.
• Experience managing complex and high-risk cases.
• Ability to mentor and support colleagues within a team environment.
• Excellent assessment, analytical, and report-writing skills.
• Strong communication and relationship-building abilities.

Why Work With Us?

• £42 per hour competitive locum rate
• 1 day per week working from home
• Opportunity to work within a well-established Child Protection Team
• Supportive and experienced management team
• Regular supervision and reflective practice
• Opportunity to influence practice and support team development
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your assignment
• Access to a wide range of future local authority opportunities
• Generous referral bonus scheme
• Opportunity to make a lasting difference to children and families facing significant challenges

Apply Today

For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact:

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

Dorset Council

£40 per hour | Locum Opportunity | Hybrid Working | 3 Days per Week in the Office

Key Highlights

• £40 per hour
• Locum Social Worker opportunity
• Permanence Team
• Hybrid working – 3 days per week in the office
• Candidates must be local to Dorset
• Supportive and experienced management team
• Focus on achieving long-term stability for children
• Immediate interview and start opportunities available

Are you an experienced Social Worker with a passion for achieving lasting outcomes for children? Dorset Council is seeking a committed and motivated Social Worker to join its Permanence Team, supporting children and young people to achieve safe, stable, and permanent living arrangements.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a well-established service that is dedicated to ensuring children experience stability, security, and positive futures. Offering a competitive rate of £40 per hour and a hybrid working arrangement with 3 office days per week, this role is ideal for practitioners who enjoy long-term planning and delivering meaningful change for children and families.

Please note: Due to the office attendance requirements, applicants must be local to Dorset and able to attend the office three days per week.

About Dorset Council

Dorset Council is committed to delivering high-quality services that place children and young people at the centre of decision-making. The authority has built a strong reputation for relationship-based practice, collaborative working, and supporting social workers to deliver the best possible outcomes for children.

The Permanence Team plays a crucial role in securing long-term stability for children through permanence planning, care planning, and achieving timely outcomes. Social workers within the team work closely with children, carers, families, legal services, and partner agencies to ensure children have the opportunity to thrive in safe and nurturing environments.

You'll be joining a service that values professional judgement, reflective practice, and effective multi-agency collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of children requiring permanence planning and long-term support.
• Develop and progress permanence plans for children in care.
• Undertake comprehensive assessments and care planning activities.
• Work directly with children, families, foster carers, and connected persons to achieve positive outcomes.
• Prepare high-quality reports for reviews, panels, and court proceedings.
• Participate in care planning meetings, permanency planning meetings, and statutory reviews.
• Work collaboratively with fostering services, adoption services, legal teams, and external agencies.
• Ensure plans are child-focused and promote stability, permanence, and wellbeing.
• Maintain accurate case records and ensure statutory responsibilities are met.
• Promote the voice of the child in all planning and decision-making processes.

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification.
• Registered with the Social Work England.
• Experience working within Children in Care, Permanence, Looked After Children, or Safeguarding Services.
• Strong understanding of permanence planning and care proceedings.
• Excellent assessment, report-writing, and analytical skills.
• Ability to manage complex cases and work effectively within a multi-agency environment.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• Must be local to Dorset and able to attend the office 3 days per week.

Why Work With Us?

• £40 per hour competitive locum rate
• Hybrid working with 3 office days per week
• Opportunity to work within a dedicated Permanence Team
• Supportive and accessible management structure
• Regular supervision and reflective practice
• Meaningful work focused on achieving long-term outcomes for children
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your assignment
• Access to a wide range of future local authority opportunities
• Generous referral bonus scheme
• Opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of children and young people

Apply Today

For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact:

Josh Dhumisani
📞 07902371315
✉️ jdhumisani@sheldon-phillips.co

Gloucestershire Council

Up to £47,000 per annum + £4,000 Welcome Payment + £2,000 Annual Retention Payment + £8,000 Relocation Package + Sponsorship Transfer Available

Key Highlights

• Permanent Social Worker and Senior Social Worker opportunities
• Salary up to £47,000 per annum
• £4,000 Welcome Payment
• £2,000 Annual Retention Payment
• Relocation Package of up to £8,000
• Transfer of Sponsorship available for eligible candidates
• Well-established Localities Team
• Strong focus on relationship-based practice
• Excellent career progression and development opportunities
• Supportive management and learning culture
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements

Are you an experienced Social Worker looking to take the next step in your career with a local authority that genuinely invests in its workforce? Gloucestershire Council is seeking Social Workers and Senior Social Workers to join its Localities Team, supporting children and families through meaningful and relationship-focused interventions.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a service that values high-quality social work practice and provides practitioners with the support, resources, and development opportunities needed to thrive. With an attractive salary package, annual retention payments, relocation support, and sponsorship transfer opportunities, Gloucestershire offers an excellent environment for both UK-based and international practitioners.

About Gloucestershire Council

Gloucestershire Council is committed to creating lasting positive outcomes for children and families through strong relationships, restorative practice, and effective partnership working. The authority continues to invest in its children's services, ensuring social workers have access to manageable workloads, high-quality supervision, and clear career progression pathways.

The Localities Team works with children and families across Child in Need, Child Protection, and care planning processes, providing ongoing support and intervention to achieve sustainable change. Practitioners are empowered to build meaningful relationships with families while working alongside a wide range of professionals to safeguard children and improve outcomes.

The council has developed a strong reputation for supporting staff development and creating an environment where social workers can build long-term careers while delivering impactful frontline practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of children and families requiring statutory intervention and support.
• Undertake Child and Family Assessments and develop outcome-focused plans.
• Hold and progress Child in Need, Child Protection, and Public Law Outline cases.
• Complete direct work with children and families to assess risk and promote positive change.
• Prepare high-quality assessments, court reports, and statutory documentation.
• Work collaboratively with education, health, police, and other partner agencies.
• Participate in strategy discussions, child protection conferences, and legal planning meetings.
• Develop effective plans that promote permanency, stability, and positive outcomes.
• Ensure children's voices remain central to all assessments and decision-making.
• Maintain accurate case records and ensure compliance with statutory requirements.

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification.
• Registered with the Social Work England.
• Experience working within Child Protection, Child in Need, Safeguarding, Assessment, or Locality Services.
• Strong assessment, analytical, and risk management skills.
• Ability to manage complex caseloads and work effectively within a multi-agency environment.
• Excellent communication and report-writing abilities.
• Commitment to achieving positive outcomes for children and families.

For Senior Social Worker applicants:

• Experience managing complex and high-risk cases.
• Ability to support and mentor less experienced practitioners.
• Strong understanding of court work, safeguarding processes, and statutory interventions.
• Confidence in leading professional discussions and decision-making.

Why Work for Gloucestershire?

• Salary of up to £47,000 per annum
• £4,000 Welcome Payment
• £2,000 Annual Retention Payment every year
• Relocation Package of up to £8,000
• Transfer of Sponsorship available for eligible candidates
• Supportive and stable leadership team
• Regular supervision and reflective practice
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• Excellent training and professional development opportunities
• Clear progression routes into senior and management positions
• Strong focus on staff wellbeing and work-life balance
• Opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families

Apply Today

For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact:

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

£38 per hour | Hybrid Working | 3 Days in the Office | Locum Opportunity

Key Highlights:

• £38 per hour
• Fostering Service
• Hybrid working – 3 days per week in the office
• Supportive and well-established fostering team
• Opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of foster carers and children
• Flexible locum contract with competitive rates

Are you an experienced Social Worker looking for your next challenge within a dedicated Fostering Service? Somerset Council is seeking a motivated and passionate Social Worker to join their fostering team, supporting foster carers and ensuring children receive safe, stable, and nurturing placements.

This is an excellent opportunity to work within a progressive local authority that places children and carers at the heart of everything they do. You'll play a vital role in recruiting, assessing, supporting, and developing foster carers while contributing to positive outcomes for children in care.

About Somerset Council

Somerset Council is committed to creating a supportive environment where practitioners can thrive. The authority has invested heavily in strengthening its children's services, ensuring social workers have access to quality supervision, manageable caseloads, and ongoing professional development opportunities. You'll be joining a service that values collaboration, innovation, and relationship-based practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake comprehensive fostering assessments, including Form F assessments.
• Provide ongoing supervision, support, and guidance to approved foster carers.
• Complete annual foster carer reviews and present reports where required.
• Participate in foster carer recruitment and assessment processes.
• Work collaboratively with children, families, partner agencies, and multi-disciplinary professionals.
• Support placement stability and contribute to positive outcomes for children in care.
• Attend fostering panels and contribute professional recommendations.
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings and assessments.
• Ensure all work is completed in accordance with fostering regulations, national minimum standards, and statutory guidance.
• Promote safeguarding and ensure children remain at the centre of all decision-making.

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification.
• Registration with the Social Work England.
• Previous experience working within a Fostering Service.
• Experience completing fostering assessments and supporting foster carers.
• Strong knowledge of fostering regulations, safeguarding legislation, and relevant statutory guidance.
• Excellent assessment, report writing, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently whilst contributing positively to a team environment.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle is desirable.

Why Work With Us?

• £38 per hour competitive pay rate
• Hybrid working model with only 3 office days per week
• Supportive management and regular supervision
• Opportunity to work within a stable and experienced fostering team
• Meaningful work that directly improves outcomes for children and foster families
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your assignment
• Access to a wide range of local authority opportunities nationwide
• Generous referral bonus scheme

Apply Today

For more information or to apply for this opportunity, please contact:

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

Newport Children's Services, Isle of Wight
£42 per hour
37 Hours per Week
Hybrid Working
Full-Time Contract

Key Highlights

• £42 per hour competitive agency rate
• Full-time position working 37 hours per week
• Hybrid working arrangement offering flexibility
• Join a supportive and well-established Assessment Service
• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on children and families across the Isle of Wight
• Immediate interview and start available for suitable candidates

Are you an experienced Social Worker looking for your next opportunity in a dynamic Assessment Team? Newport Children's Services on the Isle of Wight are seeking a motivated and dedicated Social Worker to join their frontline Assessment Service. This is an excellent opportunity to work within a supportive environment where your expertise will help safeguard children and support families through timely and effective interventions.

About the Authority

The Isle of Wight offers a unique and rewarding environment for social work professionals. Newport Children's Services are committed to delivering high-quality services to children and families while fostering a positive and collaborative working culture. You'll be joining a team that values professional development, reflective practice, and effective partnership working to achieve the best outcomes for children.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake Child and Family Assessments in line with statutory requirements.
• Manage a varied caseload involving children in need, child protection, and safeguarding concerns.
• Complete robust risk assessments and formulate effective intervention plans.
• Work closely with multi-agency partners including schools, health professionals, and police.
• Prepare high-quality reports, assessments, and recommendations.
• Attend strategy meetings, child protection conferences, and other statutory meetings.
• Ensure children and families are fully involved in assessment and planning processes.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records in line with departmental standards.

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification.
• Registered with Social Work England.
• Previous experience within a Children's Assessment, Duty & Assessment, or Front Door Team.
• Strong knowledge of relevant childcare legislation and safeguarding procedures.
• Excellent assessment, report writing, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a team environment.
• Full UK driving licence preferred.

Why Work With Us?

• Excellent pay rate of £42 per hour
• Flexible hybrid working model
• Supportive management team and positive working culture
• Opportunity to gain valuable frontline assessment experience
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your assignment
• Access to a wide range of exclusive social work opportunities
• Referral bonus scheme available

Contact

Josh Dhumisani
📱 07902 371315
📧 jdhumisani@sheldon-phillips.com

Hampshire County Council – New Forest

Up to £42 per hour | Locum Opportunity | Hybrid Working | 3 Days per Week in the Office

Key Highlights

• Up to £42 per hour
• Locum Social Worker opportunity
• Localities Service
• Based in the New Forest
• Hybrid working – 3 days per week in the office
• Supportive and experienced management team
• Manage Child in Need, Child Protection, and Court Work cases
• Strong focus on relationship-based practice
• Immediate interview and start opportunities available

Are you an experienced Social Worker looking for your next locum opportunity within a supportive and well-established Localities Service? Hampshire County Council is seeking a dedicated practitioner to join its New Forest team, working with children and families to deliver meaningful interventions that create lasting positive outcomes.

This is an exciting opportunity to join one of the country's most respected local authorities, where social workers are empowered to build strong relationships with children and families while being supported by experienced managers and a collaborative team culture. Offering a competitive rate of up to £42 per hour and a hybrid working arrangement requiring 3 days per week in the office, this role provides the perfect balance of flexibility and frontline practice.

About Hampshire County Council

Hampshire County Council has a longstanding reputation for delivering high-quality services to children and families. The authority continues to invest heavily in its workforce, ensuring social workers have access to excellent supervision, professional development opportunities, and the resources needed to deliver outstanding practice.

The Localities Service works with children and families across Child in Need, Child Protection, Public Law Outline, and care proceedings, providing ongoing support and intervention where safeguarding concerns have been identified. Practitioners are encouraged to develop meaningful relationships with families while working collaboratively with partner agencies to achieve sustainable change.

The New Forest team benefits from a strong management structure, experienced practitioners, and a supportive environment where professional judgement and reflective practice are highly valued.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of children and families requiring statutory intervention and support.
• Undertake Child and Family Assessments and develop outcome-focused plans.
• Hold and progress Child in Need, Child Protection, and Public Law Outline cases.
• Complete direct work with children, young people, and families.
• Undertake risk assessments and implement safeguarding plans where necessary.
• Prepare high-quality assessments, reports, and court documentation.
• Participate in Child Protection Conferences, Core Groups, Strategy Meetings, and Legal Planning Meetings.
• Work collaboratively with education, health, police, and other partner agencies.
• Promote permanence, stability, and positive outcomes for children.
• Ensure children's voices remain central to all assessments and decision-making.

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification.
• Registered with the Social Work England.
• Experience working within Child Protection, Child in Need, Safeguarding, Assessment, or Locality Services.
• Strong knowledge of safeguarding legislation and statutory guidance.
• Excellent assessment, analytical, and report-writing skills.
• Ability to manage complex caseloads and work effectively within a multi-agency environment.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• Commitment to delivering positive outcomes for children and families.

Why Work With Us?

• Up to £42 per hour competitive locum rate
• Hybrid working with 3 office days per week
• Opportunity to work within a highly regarded Localities Service
• Supportive and accessible management team
• Regular supervision and reflective practice
• Stable and well-resourced service
• Strong multi-agency partnerships
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your assignment
• Access to a wide range of future local authority opportunities
• Generous referral bonus scheme
• Opportunity to make a genuine difference in the lives of children and families

Apply Today

For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact:

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

Hampshire County Council – Basingstoke

Up to £42 per hour | Locum Opportunity | Hybrid Working | 3 Days per Week in the Office

Key Highlights

• Up to £42 per hour
• Locum Social Worker opportunity
• Children in Care Service
• Based in Basingstoke
• Hybrid working – 3 days per week in the office
• Supportive and experienced management team
• Focus on achieving positive outcomes for Children in Care
• Stable service with excellent multi-agency partnerships
• Immediate interview and start opportunities available

Are you an experienced Social Worker looking for your next locum opportunity within a dedicated Children in Care Service? Hampshire County Council is seeking a passionate and committed practitioner to join its Basingstoke team, supporting children and young people in care to achieve stability, permanence, and positive long-term outcomes.

This is an excellent opportunity to join one of the country's most respected local authorities, working within a service that is committed to delivering high-quality care planning and relationship-based practice. Offering a competitive rate of up to £42 per hour and a hybrid working arrangement requiring 3 days per week in the Basingstoke office, this role is ideal for social workers who are passionate about improving the lives of children in care.

About Hampshire County Council

Hampshire County Council has a strong reputation for delivering outstanding services to children and families. The authority continues to invest in its workforce, providing social workers with supportive leadership, regular supervision, manageable workloads, and excellent opportunities for professional development.

The Children in Care Service works with children and young people who are subject to Care Orders, Section 20 arrangements, and permanence planning. Social workers are empowered to build meaningful relationships with children, ensuring their voices remain central to all planning and decision-making.

Working within the Basingstoke team, you will collaborate closely with foster carers, residential providers, education professionals, health services, and other partner agencies to ensure children receive the support they need to thrive.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of Children in Care and Care Leavers where appropriate.
• Undertake statutory visits and maintain strong relationships with children and young people.
• Develop and review care plans that promote stability, permanence, and positive outcomes.
• Complete assessments and reports to support care planning and permanency decisions.
• Work closely with foster carers, residential settings, and family networks.
• Participate in Looked After Child Reviews and multi-agency meetings.
• Support children to access education, health services, and emotional wellbeing support.
• Prepare high-quality court reports and documentation where required.
• Promote the voice of the child in all assessments and planning processes.
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings in line with statutory requirements.

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification.
• Registered with the Social Work England.
• Experience working within Children in Care, Looked After Children, Permanence, or Safeguarding Services.
• Strong understanding of care planning, permanence, and statutory responsibilities.
• Excellent assessment, communication, and report-writing skills.
• Ability to build effective relationships with children, families, carers, and professionals.
• Commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for children and young people.

Why Work With Us?

• Up to £42 per hour competitive locum rate
• Hybrid working with 3 office days per week
• Opportunity to work within a highly regarded Children in Care Service
• Supportive and accessible management team
• Regular supervision and reflective practice
• Stable and well-resourced service
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your assignment
• Access to a wide range of future local authority opportunities
• Generous referral bonus scheme
• Opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of children and young people

Apply Today

For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact:

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

Camden Council is seeking an experienced Senior Social Worker to join their Looked After Children Team. This is a rewarding role focused on improving outcomes for children in care through effective care planning, permanency planning, and relationship-based practice.

You will manage a complex caseload of Looked After Children, ensuring children receive the support, stability, and opportunities they need to achieve positive outcomes.

Working Pattern:

• 36 hours per week
• Hybrid working arrangement

In this role, you will:

• Manage a caseload of Looked After Children
• Undertake statutory visits and maintain regular contact with children and carers
• Develop, implement, and review care plans and permanence plans
• Support children through long-term fostering, reunification, Special Guardianship, and adoption planning where appropriate
• Work closely with foster carers, residential providers, schools, health professionals, and partner agencies
• Attend and contribute to Looked After Child Reviews and professional meetings
• Progress care proceedings and permanence planning where required
• Support and mentor less experienced Social Workers within the team
• Prepare high-quality assessments, reports, and court documentation
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings

What You’ll Need:

• Social Work England Registration
• Social Work Qualification
• At least 3 years’ post-qualified experience in children’s social care
• Strong experience within a Looked After Children service
• Knowledge of permanence planning and care planning processes
• Experience working with children in care and their families
• Court work experience desirable
• Ability to support and guide colleagues within a team environment
• Excellent assessment, analytical, and communication skills

Why Sheldon Phillips?

Because we actually listen to what you need. We’re not just here to fill roles—we’re here to find you the right fit in a supportive and rewarding team. That’s why social workers trust us to help them take the next step in their careers.

If you want to know more about this Senior Social Worker – Looked After Children role in Camden, give Ellis Russell a call on 01635 226350 – let’s have a chat!

And don’t forget – if you refer a friend and we place them, you’ll get £300 as a thank you! (Terms and conditions apply).

Barnet Council is seeking an experienced Senior Social Worker to join their Assessment & Intervention Team. This is a frontline role focused on undertaking assessments, managing safeguarding concerns, and delivering timely interventions to improve outcomes for children and families.

You will work with children and families from the point of referral, undertaking statutory assessments and progressing plans to ensure children receive the right support and protection when needed.

Working Pattern:

• 36 hours per week
• Hybrid working arrangement

In this role, you will:

• Undertake Child and Family Assessments
• Complete Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries
• Manage Child in Need and Child Protection cases
• Assess risk and develop outcome-focused care plans
• Undertake direct work with children and families
• Lead and participate in strategy meetings, core groups, and multi-agency discussions
• Progress cases through pre-proceedings and court processes where required
• Support and mentor less experienced Social Workers within the team
• Prepare high-quality assessments, reports, and court documentation
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings

What You’ll Need:

• Social Work England Registration
• Social Work Qualification
• At least 3 years’ post-qualified experience in children’s social care
• Strong experience within Assessment, Intervention, Duty, or Referral & Assessment services
• Child in Need and Child Protection experience
• Court work and pre-proceedings experience
• Ability to manage complex safeguarding cases confidently
• Strong assessment, analytical, and communication skills

Why Sheldon Phillips?

Because we actually listen to what you need. We’re not just here to fill roles—we’re here to find you the right fit in a supportive and rewarding team. That’s why social workers trust us to help them take the next step in their careers.

If you want to know more about this Senior Social Worker – Assessment & Intervention role in Barnet, give Ellis Russell a call on 01635 226350 – let’s have a chat!

And don’t forget – if you refer a friend and we place them, you’ll get £300 as a thank you! (Terms and conditions apply).

Newport Children's Services – Isle of Wight Council

Up to £42 per hour | Locum Opportunity | Safeguarding Service

Key Highlights

• Up to £42 per hour
• Locum Social Worker opportunity
• Safeguarding Service
• Beautiful Isle of Wight location
• Supportive and stable management team
• Strong focus on relationship-based practice
• Excellent opportunity to develop frontline safeguarding experience
• Immediate interview and start opportunities available

Are you an experienced Social Worker looking for your next locum opportunity in a unique and rewarding setting? Newport Children's Services at Isle of Wight Council is seeking a dedicated Social Worker to join its Safeguarding Service, supporting children and families through effective intervention, assessment, and long-term planning.

This is a fantastic opportunity to work within a close-knit and supportive service where relationship-based practice is at the heart of everything they do. Offering a highly competitive rate of up to £42 per hour, this role provides the chance to make a genuine difference while enjoying the benefits of working within one of the UK's most picturesque locations.

About Isle of Wight Council

Isle of Wight Council is committed to delivering high-quality services that place children, young people, and families at the centre of decision-making. The authority has invested significantly in its Children's Services, creating an environment where social workers are empowered to build meaningful relationships and achieve lasting change.

The Safeguarding Service works with children and families requiring ongoing statutory intervention, ensuring children are protected from harm while supporting families to create safe and sustainable outcomes. Practitioners benefit from accessible management, regular supervision, and a culture that values professional judgement and reflective practice.

Working on the Isle of Wight offers a unique opportunity to be part of a community-focused authority while enjoying an exceptional quality of life and stunning coastal surroundings.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of children and families within Child in Need and Child Protection frameworks.
• Undertake safeguarding assessments and risk management interventions.
• Complete Section 47 investigations and contribute to effective safety planning.
• Develop and implement outcome-focused care and support plans.
• Carry out direct work with children, young people, and families.
• Prepare high-quality assessments, reports, and court documentation where required.
• Participate in Child Protection Conferences, Core Groups, Strategy Meetings, and Legal Planning Meetings.
• Work collaboratively with education, health, police, and other partner agencies.
• Promote permanence, stability, and positive outcomes for children.
• Ensure accurate and timely recording in accordance with statutory guidance and local procedures.

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification.
• Registered with the Social Work England.
• Experience working within Safeguarding, Child Protection, CIN, or Locality Services.
• Strong knowledge of safeguarding legislation and statutory responsibilities.
• Excellent assessment, communication, and report-writing skills.
• Ability to manage complex caseloads and work effectively within a multi-agency environment.
• Commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for children and families.

Why Work With Us?

• Up to £42 per hour
• Opportunity to work within a supportive and stable safeguarding team
• Accessible and experienced management structure
• Regular supervision and reflective practice
• Strong focus on relationship-based social work
• Beautiful coastal location with an excellent quality of life
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your assignment
• Access to a wide range of future locum opportunities
• Generous referral bonus scheme
• Opportunity to make a lasting difference to vulnerable children and families

Apply Today

For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact:

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

Southampton City Council

£38 per hour | Locum Opportunity | Hybrid Working | 3 Days per Week in the Office

Key Highlights

• £38 per hour
• Locum Social Worker opportunity
• Safeguarding Service
• Hybrid working – only 2 days per week in the office
• Supportive and experienced management team
• Manageable caseloads and strong multi-agency working
• Immediate interview and start opportunities
• Opportunity to make a genuine impact on children's lives

Are you an experienced Social Worker looking for your next locum opportunity within a dedicated Safeguarding Service? Southampton City Council is seeking a skilled and motivated practitioner to join its frontline team, working with children and families where long-term support and intervention are required to improve outcomes and reduce risk.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a local authority that is committed to delivering high-quality services while providing social workers with the support, flexibility, and resources needed to undertake effective safeguarding work. With a competitive rate of £38 per hour and a hybrid working arrangement requiring only 2 days per week in the office, this role offers an excellent balance of flexibility and professional challenge.

About Southampton City Council

Southampton City Council is committed to ensuring children and young people are safe, supported, and able to achieve their full potential. The council continues to invest in its children's services and has developed a strong culture of collaboration, professional development, and relationship-based practice.

Working within the Safeguarding Service, you'll manage a varied caseload of children subject to Child in Need, Child Protection, and Public Law Outline processes, undertaking meaningful direct work and ensuring children receive the right support at the right time.

You'll join a supportive team environment where managers are accessible, supervision is regular, and practitioners are encouraged to focus on high-quality social work practice that delivers positive outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of children and families requiring statutory intervention.
• Undertake Child in Need, Child Protection, and safeguarding assessments.
• Complete Section 47 investigations and risk assessments where required.
• Develop and implement outcome-focused care and safety plans.
• Undertake direct work with children and families to assess needs, strengths, and risks.
• Prepare high-quality assessments, reports, and court documentation.
• Participate in Child Protection Conferences, Core Groups, Strategy Meetings, and Legal Planning Meetings.
• Work collaboratively with partner agencies including education, health, police, and legal services.
• Ensure children's voices are central to assessment, planning, and decision-making.
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings in line with statutory requirements.

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification.
• Registered with the Social Work England.
• Previous experience within Safeguarding, Child Protection, CIN, or Locality Services.
• Strong knowledge of relevant legislation, statutory guidance, and safeguarding procedures.
• Excellent assessment, analytical, and report-writing skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities within a busy frontline environment.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.

Why Work With Us?

• £38 per hour competitive locum rate
• Hybrid working with only 3 office days per week
• Supportive and experienced management team
• Regular supervision and reflective practice
• Opportunity to work within a stable and collaborative safeguarding service
• Access to a wide range of future local authority opportunities
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your assignment
• Excellent referral bonus scheme
• Opportunity to make a meaningful difference to vulnerable children and families

Apply Today

For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact:

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

Croydon Council

£46,968 - £53,000 per annum + £5,000 Welcome Payment + Relocation Package up to £8,000 + Sponsorship Available

Key Highlights

• Permanent Social Worker and Senior Social Worker opportunities
• Salary between £46,968 and £53,000 per annum
• £5,000 Welcome Payment
• Relocation Package of up to £8,000 available
• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) available for eligible candidates
• Dedicated Assessment Service
• Assessment and Safeguarding teams remain separate
• Not operating under the Family Help model
• Excellent learning, development, and progression opportunities
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements

Are you a passionate and ambitious Social Worker looking to join a local authority that continues to invest in frontline practice? Croydon Council is seeking Social Workers and Senior Social Workers to join its dedicated Assessment Service, where you will have the opportunity to make meaningful interventions with children and families at the earliest stage of involvement.

This is an exciting opportunity for practitioners who enjoy fast-paced assessment work and want to focus on delivering high-quality assessments without carrying long-term safeguarding cases. With a competitive salary, a generous welcome payment, relocation support, and sponsorship opportunities, Croydon offers an excellent package for both UK-based and international candidates looking to advance their careers.

About Croydon Council

Croydon is committed to delivering excellent services for children and families through relationship-based practice and strong professional support. The council has continued to invest in its workforce, creating an environment where social workers can develop their careers while making a genuine difference to the lives of children.

A key feature of Croydon's structure is that its Assessment and Safeguarding Services remain separate teams. Unlike many authorities that have moved towards a Family Help model, Croydon has retained a dedicated Assessment Service. This means practitioners can focus on completing robust and timely assessments, intervention planning, and decision-making at the front door without holding longer-term safeguarding and child protection cases.

This structure allows social workers to specialise in assessment work, maintain clear service pathways, and deliver focused interventions that support children and families from the outset.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake Child and Family Assessments in line with statutory requirements.
• Complete comprehensive risk assessments and safety planning.
• Manage referrals received through Children's Social Care and undertake timely interventions.
• Carry out Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries where required.
• Work directly with children and families to identify strengths, risks, and support needs.
• Develop outcome-focused plans and recommendations for ongoing services.
• Liaise effectively with partner agencies, including education, health, police, and early help services.
• Present cases and recommendations at legal planning meetings, strategy discussions, and multi-agency forums.
• Ensure high-quality case recording, assessment writing, and statutory compliance.
• Promote safeguarding and ensure children's voices remain central to all decision-making.

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification.
• Registered with the Social Work England.
• Experience within Assessment, Safeguarding, Child Protection, CIN, or Front Door services.
• Strong assessment and analytical skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced statutory environment.
• Excellent communication and report-writing abilities.
• Commitment to achieving positive outcomes for children and families.

For Senior Social Worker applicants:

• Demonstrable experience managing complex cases.
• Ability to support and mentor less experienced practitioners.
• Strong understanding of risk management, court work, and safeguarding processes.

Why Work for Croydon?

• £46,968 - £53,000 annual salary
• £5,000 Welcome Payment
• Relocation Package of up to £8,000
• Sponsorship available for eligible overseas candidates
• Dedicated Assessment Service with a clear focus on frontline assessment work
• Assessment and Safeguarding teams remain separate
• Not operating under the Family Help model
• Supportive leadership and accessible management
• Regular supervision and reflective practice
• Excellent career progression opportunities
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• Extensive training and professional development programmes
• Opportunity to make a significant impact on children and families at a crucial stage of intervention

Apply Today

For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact:

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

Sheldon Phillips is looking for a highly organised and driven Compliance Officer to join our growing team in Newbury.

This is a key role within the business, ensuring our contractors are fully compliant, paid on time, and supported throughout their assignments - ultimately protecting our relationships with Local Authorities and maintaining the high standards we’re known for.

Position: Compliance Officer
Location: Newbury
Salary: £19,000 – £25,000 + Incentives
 

About Sheldon Phillips

Sheldon Phillips is a specialist recruitment agency operating within the social work sector. We partner with Local Authorities, Independent Fostering Agencies, Charities, and private organisations across the UK, delivering high-quality, compliant professionals into critical services.

Our reputation is built on reliability, compliance, and strong relationships - this role sits right at the heart of that.
 

The Role

As a Compliance Officer, you will play a central role in managing contractor compliance, supporting consultants, and ensuring smooth onboarding and payroll processes. You’ll be dealing with both systems and people - so attention to detail and strong communication are equally important.
 

Key Responsibilities

• Managing and processing candidate applications across multiple client portals
• Supporting Recruitment Consultants to ensure a seamless onboarding journey
• Chasing, verifying, and managing contractor timesheets to ensure accurate and timely payment
• Building relationships with contractors through regular check-ins, ensuring satisfaction and retention
• Gathering references and maintaining accurate compliance records
• Preparing and processing documentation in line with framework and audit requirements
• Ensuring all compliance standards and deadlines are consistently met
   

What We’re Looking For

• Strong organisational skills with high attention to detail
• Confident communicator, both written and verbal
• Proactive mindset with the ability to take ownership of tasks
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Comfortable working with systems, processes, and deadlines
• Previous recruitment or compliance experience is beneficial, but not essential
   

What You’ll Get

• Competitive base salary with performance-based incentives
• Clear training and development pathway within recruitment
• A supportive, team-driven environment
• Flexible working options post-probation
• Monthly incentives and team rewards
• Relaxed, positive office culture (including Dress Down Fridays)
   

If you’re someone who takes pride in getting the detail right, enjoys working with people, and wants to build a career within recruitment - this is a strong opportunity to join a business that’s growing and making a real impact in the social work sector.

Contact Jamie Trick on 01635 724970 or 07711349457 for an initial conversation, or send your CV to jtrick@sheldon-phillips.com

Sheldon Phillips are working with Staffordshire Children's Services to recruit experienced Social Workers across a number of frontline safeguarding teams. These opportunities are available within both Duty & Assessment , as well as the Safeguarding & Court services, offering varied and rewarding caseloads, strong management support, and a flexible hybrid working arrangement.

With offices located across Staffordshire, these roles provide the opportunity to work within well-established teams committed to achieving positive outcomes for children and families while maintaining manageable workloads and a supportive working environment.

Role Overview

We are recruiting Social Workers for the following teams and locations:

Duty & Assessment Teams

• Cannock
• Newcastle-under-Lyme
• Moorlands

Safeguarding & Court Teams

• Stafford
• Codsall
• Cannock
• Newcastle-under-Lyme
• Moorlands

These positions involve working with children and families from referral through assessment, child protection, pre-proceedings, and court work, depending on the service area.

Key Responsibilities

Duty & Assessment

• Undertake Child and Family Assessments in line with statutory guidance.
• Complete Section 47 investigations and safeguarding enquiries.
• Respond to referrals and assess risk, need, and protective factors.
• Work closely with partner agencies to safeguard children.
• Develop and review child-focused plans to improve outcomes.
• Present cases at strategy meetings, conferences, and planning meetings.
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings.

Safeguarding & Court

• Manage longer-term child protection and children in need cases.
• Undertake direct work with children and families to reduce risk and improve outcomes.
• Lead pre-proceedings work and Public Law Outline processes.
• Prepare high-quality court statements and reports.
• Attend court hearings and provide evidence when required.
• Chair and contribute to multi-agency meetings and reviews.
• Progress permanency planning for children where necessary.

Benefits

• Competitive pay rates of £38–£40 per hour.
• Hybrid working arrangement with only 2 office days per week.
• Multiple office locations across Staffordshire.
• Supportive management teams and regular supervision.
• Stable contracts within established services.
• Opportunity to work in high-performing frontline teams.
• Immediate interview and start opportunities available.

Requirements

• Social Work England registration.
• Degree in Social Work or equivalent qualification.
• Previous experience within Children's Services.
• Strong assessment, safeguarding, and risk management skills.
• Experience of Child Protection processes and statutory interventions.
• Court experience desirable for Safeguarding & Court positions.
• Ability to work effectively within multi-agency environments.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.

Interested?

If you're an experienced Children's Social Worker looking for your next locum opportunity in Staffordshire, we'd love to hear from you.

For a confidential discussion or to apply, please contact:

Emily Cooper at Sheldon Phillips - 07745 200325 | ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

Referrals are always welcome, and referral bonuses are available for successful recommendations.

Position: Senior Practitioner in Learning
Team: Learning Academy
Contract: Locum – 6 Months+
Hours: 35 Hours per Week
Location: Lifford House, Birmingham, B30 3BN
Working Pattern: Hybrid – 1–2 Days per Week in the Office
Reporting To: Head of Service and Team Manager

Sheldon Phillips are working in partnership with Birmingham Children’s Trust to recruit an experienced Senior Practitioner in Learning to join their Learning Academy. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced social work professional who is passionate about workforce development, learning, and leadership to help shape the future of Children’s Services across one of the largest local authorities in the country.

Working within the Learning Academy, you will play a key role in designing, delivering, and evaluating high-quality learning programmes that support social workers and managers across Front Door and Assessment, Safeguarding, and Court Services. This position offers the opportunity to influence practice standards, develop future leaders, and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement across the Trust.

Role Overview

As a Senior Practitioner in Learning, you will be responsible for leading workforce development initiatives that support Birmingham Children’s Trust's commitment to delivering outstanding services for children and families. You will work closely with operational leaders, practitioners, and external partners to identify learning needs, deliver engaging training programmes, and evaluate the impact of learning on practice outcomes.

This role would suit an experienced practitioner, Advanced Practitioner, Practice Educator, or Workforce Development professional with a strong background in statutory children's social work and a passion for supporting others to develop their skills and practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and deliver induction, continuing professional development (CPD), and specialist learning programmes.
• Facilitate large-scale training events and learning sessions for groups ranging from small workshops to audiences of up to 300 practitioners.
• Support the implementation of the Learning and Workforce Development Strategy across Children's Services.
• Identify workforce learning needs through consultation, evaluation, and performance data analysis.
• Deliver leadership development programmes for current and aspiring managers.
• Provide coaching, mentoring, and reflective learning opportunities for practitioners and leaders.
• Support the professional development of social workers across Front Door, Assessment, Safeguarding, and Court Services.
• Lead and contribute to workforce development projects and cultural improvement initiatives.
• Build strong relationships with operational teams, higher education institutions, and external training providers.
• Promote evidence-informed practice and ensure learning content reflects current legislation, research, and best practice.
• Evaluate learning interventions and measure their impact on practitioner confidence, competence, and service delivery.
• Champion equality, diversity, inclusion, and anti-discriminatory practice throughout all learning activities.

Benefits

• Hybrid working arrangement with only 1–2 office days per week.
• Opportunity to influence practice across one of the UK's largest Children's Services organisations.
• Work within a dedicated Learning Academy focused on workforce excellence.
• Exposure to strategic workforce development and leadership programmes.
• Collaborative and supportive management structure.
• Long-term locum opportunity with potential for extension.
• Opportunity to work with practitioners at all stages of their careers, from ASYE through to senior leadership.

Requirements

• Social Work England registration.
• Qualified Social Worker with substantial statutory Children's Services experience.
• Experience delivering training, workforce development, coaching, mentoring, or practice improvement initiatives.
• Strong understanding of adult learning principles and learning programme design.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and presentation skills.
• Ability to engage and inspire large groups of practitioners.
• Experience supporting reflective practice and professional development.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.
• Commitment to high-quality practice and continuous improvement.

Desirable Experience

• Previous experience within a Learning Academy, Workforce Development, or Learning and Development function.
• Knowledge of leadership and management development frameworks.
• Experience supporting ASYE, NQSW, or student social worker development.
• Coaching, mentoring, or practice educator qualifications.

Interested?

If you are an experienced social worker with a passion for learning, leadership, and workforce development, we would love to hear from you.

For more information, to apply, or if you would like an informal chat with the hiring manager, please contact:

Emily Cooper  - 07745 200325 | ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

Consultant Social Worker – Youth Justice Team | London Borough of Merton

• £39.04 per hour
• Hybrid working model – 3 days in the office
• Senior leadership opportunity within Youth Justice & Children’s Social Care
• Focus on safeguarding adolescents, contextual safeguarding, and reducing risk
• Opportunity to mentor Social Workers, ASYEs, and frontline practitioners
• Join a progressive authority committed to relationship-based practice and positive outcomes for young people

Are you an experienced Children’s Social Worker or Advanced Practitioner with strong Youth Justice or adolescent safeguarding experience?

The London Borough of Merton is looking for an experienced Consultant Social Worker to join their Youth Justice and Children’s Social Care Service. This is a fantastic opportunity for a highly skilled practitioner who thrives in complex safeguarding environments and is passionate about supporting vulnerable adolescents, reducing contextual harm, and improving long-term outcomes for young people and families.

This role combines advanced statutory practice with leadership responsibilities, offering the opportunity to guide and support frontline practitioners while maintaining oversight of complex interventions across the Youth Justice and wider adolescent safeguarding pathway.

About the Role

As a Consultant Social Worker within the Youth Justice Team, you will:

• Lead and support complex interventions involving adolescents at risk of exploitation, offending, contextual harm, and family breakdown
• Provide expert consultation, mentoring, and coaching to Social Workers, ASYEs, and support staff
• Work directly with young people and families using relationship-based, systemic, and Signs of Safety approaches
• Support risk assessment, safeguarding planning, and multi-agency interventions
• Chair complex meetings including contextual safeguarding and family network meetings
• Deliver high-quality assessments, reports, and care planning
• Support service development, reflective practice, and quality assurance across the team
• Work collaboratively with education, police, health, youth services, and wider partner agencies
• Deputise for Team Managers where required

What We’re Looking For

To be considered for this position, you should have:

• Social Work qualification and active Social Work England registration
• Significant post-qualified experience within Children’s Services or Youth Justice
• Strong experience working with adolescents and contextual safeguarding
• Knowledge of exploitation, youth offending, edge of care, and family intervention work
• Experience supervising, mentoring, or supporting other practitioners
• Excellent safeguarding, assessment, and risk management skills
• Strong multi-agency working and court/report writing experience
• Ability to work confidently within fast-paced and high-risk environments

Why Join This Authority?

• Excellent pay rate of £39.04 per hour
• Hybrid working model with 3 office-based days per week
• Supportive and stable management structure
• Opportunity to influence practice development and improve outcomes for young people
• Strong focus on reflective supervision and practitioner development
• Collaborative and relationship-focused working culture
• Meaningful work supporting vulnerable adolescents and families across the borough

If you are interested in this opportunity, or would like to discuss other Social Work vacancies across the UK, please get in touch today.

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

Islington | Locum | £39.04 per hour | Hybrid Working

Islington Council is seeking an experienced Senior Social Worker to join their Child in Need / Child Protection Team. This is a frontline safeguarding role focused on supporting vulnerable children and families through effective assessment, planning, and intervention to achieve positive and sustainable outcomes.

You will manage a complex caseload, working closely with children, families, and partner agencies to reduce risk, promote stability, and ensure children receive the right support at the right time.

Working Pattern:

• 3 days per week in the office
• Hybrid working arrangement

In this role, you will:

• Manage a caseload of Child in Need and Child Protection cases
• Undertake assessments and develop outcome-focused plans
• Complete Section 47 enquiries and safeguarding investigations
• Undertake statutory visits and direct work with children and families
• Lead and participate in child protection conferences, core groups, and multi-agency meetings
• Progress cases through pre-proceedings and care proceedings where required
• Work collaboratively with schools, health professionals, police, and other partner agencies
• Support and mentor less experienced Social Workers within the team
• Prepare high-quality reports, assessments, and court documentation
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings

What You’ll Need:

• Social Work England Registration
• Social Work Qualification
• At least 3 years’ post-qualified experience in children’s social care
• Strong Child in Need and Child Protection experience
• Experience managing complex safeguarding cases
• Court work and pre-proceedings experience desirable
• Ability to support and guide colleagues within a team environment
• Excellent assessment, analytical, and communication skills

Why Sheldon Phillips?

Because we actually listen to what you need. We’re not just here to fill roles—we’re here to find you the right fit in a supportive and rewarding team. That’s why social workers trust us to help them take the next step in their careers.

If you want to know more about this Senior Social Worker – Child in Need / Child Protection role in Islington, give Ellis Russell a call on 01635 226350 – let’s have a chat!

And don’t forget – if you refer a friend and we place them, you’ll get £300 as a thank you! (Terms and conditions apply).

Social Worker – Duty and Assessment Team

Pay Rate: £39 per hour
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

Halton Borough Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join its Duty and Assessment Team.
You will be responsible for undertaking timely assessments, responding to safeguarding concerns, and ensuring children and families receive the appropriate level of intervention and support.

This is a fast-paced frontline role where you will work closely with children, families, and partner agencies to safeguard children and promote positive outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Complete Child and Family Assessments and Section 47 enquiries.
• Undertake duty responsibilities and respond to new referrals.
• Assess risk and develop effective safety plans.
• Manage Child in Need and Child Protection cases where required.
• Work collaboratively with education, health, police, and other partner agencies.
• Undertake direct work with children and families.
• Maintain accurate case records and prepare high-quality reports.

Practice Model Used by Halton

Halton Children's Services uses a Strengths-Based Practice Model supported by Signs of Safety principles.
This approach focuses on:

• Building collaborative relationships with children and families
• Identifying strengths and support networks
• Transparent assessment and decision-making
• Clear risk assessment and safety planning
• Reflective supervision and continuous professional development
• The model supports consistent, child-centred, and outcome-focused practice.

Why Halton Is a Great Place to Live and Work

Halton offers a great balance of affordability, connectivity, and quality of life:

• Affordable housing compared to many neighbouring regions.
• Excellent transport links to Liverpool, Manchester, and Chester.
• Access to beautiful countryside and riverside walks along the River Mersey.
• Strong local communities and family-friendly neighbourhoods.
• A supportive local authority committed to staff development, wellbeing, and improving outcomes for children.
• It’s an excellent place to develop your career while maintaining a strong work-life balance.

Interested?

To apply, please send your CV to:
dmitchell@sheldon-phillips.com

For more information, call:
07561 805654

Social Worker – Adolescent Safeguarding Team

Pay Rate: £41 per hour
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join its Adolescent Safeguarding Team.
You will work with vulnerable adolescents who may be at risk of exploitation, missing episodes, criminal involvement, contextual safeguarding concerns, and other complex risks.

This is a specialist role focused on engaging young people, reducing risk, and promoting positive outcomes through effective multi-agency partnership working.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of adolescents with complex safeguarding needs.
• Undertake assessments and develop effective intervention plans.
• Work with young people at risk of exploitation, extra-familial harm, and criminality.
• Complete Child in Need and Child Protection work where required.
• Build strong relationships with young people and their families.
• Work collaboratively with education, health, police, youth justice, and community services.
• Maintain accurate case records and prepare high-quality reports.

Practice Model Used by Dudley

Dudley Children's Services uses a Strengths-Based Practice Model supported by Signs of Safety principles.
This approach focuses on:

• Building strong relationships with children, young people, and families
• Identifying strengths and protective networks
• Collaborative and transparent decision-making
• Clear risk assessment and safety planning
• Reflective supervision and continuous professional development
• The model supports child-centred and outcome-focused practice.

Why Dudley Is a Great Place to Live and Work

Dudley offers an excellent combination of affordability, connectivity, and community:

• Affordable housing compared to many neighbouring areas.
• Excellent transport links to Birmingham, Wolverhampton, and the wider Midlands region.
• Access to green spaces, parks, and local attractions including Dudley Zoo and Castle.
• Strong local communities and family-friendly neighbourhoods.
• A supportive local authority committed to staff wellbeing, development, and improving outcomes for children and young people.
• It’s a great place to build your career while enjoying a strong work-life balance.

Interested?

To apply, please send your CV to:
dmitchell@sheldon-phillips.com

For more information, call:
07561 805654

Senior Social Worker – Assessment Team

Pay Rate: £33.30 per hour
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

Birmingham Children's Trust is seeking an experienced Senior Social Worker to join its Assessment Team.
You will work with children and families at the front door of services, completing assessments and identifying the appropriate level of intervention to safeguard children and promote positive outcomes.

This role offers the opportunity to manage complex cases while supporting colleagues and contributing to high-quality practice within the team.

Key Responsibilities

• Complete Child and Family Assessments and Section 47 enquiries.
• Manage complex safeguarding cases and provide support to colleagues where required.
• Develop and implement effective safety and support plans.
• Work collaboratively with partner agencies including health, education, and police.
• Undertake direct work with children and families.
• Prepare high-quality reports for conferences, reviews, and court proceedings.
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings.

Practice Model Used by Birmingham

Birmingham Children’s Trust uses a Strengths-Based, Relationship-Focused Practice Model supported by Signs of Safety.
This approach focuses on:

• Building strong relationships with children and families
• Collaborative and transparent practice
• Identifying strengths and support networks
• Clear risk assessment and safety planning
• Reflective supervision and continuous professional development
• The model supports consistent, child-centred social work practice across services.

Why Birmingham Is a Great Place to Live and Work

Birmingham is one of the UK's largest and most dynamic cities, offering excellent opportunities both professionally and personally:

• More affordable housing and living costs than many other major UK cities.
• Outstanding transport links, including direct rail services to London, Manchester, Bristol, and beyond.
• A vibrant cultural scene with world-class shopping, restaurants, theatres, music venues, and sporting events.
• Extensive parks, canals, and green spaces throughout the city.
• Diverse communities and excellent educational opportunities.
• A progressive children's service committed to improving outcomes and investing in workforce development.
• It’s a fantastic place to develop your career while enjoying the benefits of living in a thriving and well-connected city.

Interested?

To apply, please send your CV to:
dmitchell@sheldon-phillips.com

For more information, call:
07561 805654

Sheldon Phillips are working in partnership with Barnsley Council to recruit an experienced Advanced Practitioner to join their Children in Care Team. This is an excellent opportunity for a highly skilled practitioner looking to take on a leadership role within a dedicated service that supports children and young people in care to achieve positive outcomes, stability, and permanence.

Role Overview

As an Advanced Practitioner within the Children in Care Team, you will manage a complex caseload of looked after children while providing practice leadership, mentoring, and support to less experienced social workers across the team. You will play a key role in promoting high standards of practice, ensuring children receive timely and effective interventions that support their safety, wellbeing, and long-term outcomes.

Working closely with managers and partner agencies, you will contribute to service development, support quality assurance activity, and champion relationship-based practice with children, young people, and their families.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a complex caseload of children and young people subject to Care Orders, Section 20 arrangements, and other looked after children processes.
• Complete statutory visits, assessments, care planning, and pathway planning in accordance with legislation and local procedures.
• Develop and review care plans that promote permanence, stability, and positive outcomes.
• Support children to maintain meaningful relationships with family members where appropriate.
• Undertake direct work with children and young people to ensure their voices are central to planning and decision-making.
• Contribute to permanence planning, including rehabilitation, special guardianship, long-term fostering, and adoption planning.
• Provide mentoring, coaching, and practice support to social workers within the team.
• Assist managers with quality assurance, case audits, and the development of good practice.
• Chair professional meetings and provide guidance on complex casework where required.
• Work effectively with carers, education providers, health professionals, legal services, and other partner agencies.
• Prepare high-quality reports for statutory reviews, court proceedings, and permanence planning meetings.

Benefits

• £37 per hour pay rate.
• 37-hour working week.
• Opportunity to take on a leadership-focused Advanced Practitioner role.
• Supportive management structure and experienced team environment.
• Varied and rewarding Children in Care caseload.
• Opportunity to influence practice standards and support workforce development.
• Flexible and hybrid working opportunities where service needs allow.
• Well-established local authority committed to achieving positive outcomes for children in care.

Requirements

• Social Work qualification (Degree, DipSW, CQSW or equivalent).
• Registration with Social Work England.
• Significant post-qualified experience within Children's Services.
• Extensive experience working with Looked After Children and permanence planning.
• Strong knowledge of relevant legislation, safeguarding processes, and care planning requirements.
• Ability to manage complex casework and provide professional guidance to colleagues.
• Experience supporting or mentoring less experienced practitioners.
• Excellent assessment, analytical, and report-writing skills.
• Ability to work effectively within a multi-agency environment.
• Commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for children and young people.

Interested?

If you're an experienced Children's Social Worker ready to take the next step into an Advanced Practitioner position within a supportive Children in Care Team, we'd love to hear from you.

Emily Cooper - Recruitment Consultant atSheldon Phillips
07745 200325 | ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

• £40.00 per hour
• Hybrid working – 3 days per week in the office
• Join a dedicated Permanence Team supporting children in long-term care planning
• Excellent management support and positive team culture
• Opportunity to work within a well-regarded local authority
• Long-term stable contract available

We are currently recruiting for an experienced Social Worker to join the Permanence Team at Dorset Council. This is a fantastic opportunity for a committed practitioner who is passionate about achieving long-term stability and positive outcomes for children and young people.

The role will involve working with children subject to care proceedings, long-term care planning, and permanency arrangements including adoption, special guardianship, and long-term fostering. You will work closely with children, carers, families, and partner agencies to ensure timely and effective permanence planning.

About the Local Authority

Dorset Council is recognised for its supportive working environment, child-focused approach, and commitment to high-quality social work practice. The service promotes reflective supervision, manageable team structures, and flexible hybrid working to support staff wellbeing and professional development.

Key Responsibilities

• Managing a caseload of children requiring permanence planning and long-term care arrangements
• Undertaking assessments relating to adoption, special guardianship, and long-term fostering
• Progressing care planning and permanence outcomes within statutory timescales
• Preparing high-quality court reports, assessments, and care plans
• Working directly with children and families to achieve positive long-term outcomes
• Attending legal meetings, looked after children reviews, and multi-agency planning meetings
• Building strong working relationships with carers, partner agencies, and internal services
• Maintaining accurate and up-to-date case recordings in line with statutory requirements

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification
• Registered with Social Work England
• Previous experience within Permanence, Looked After Children, or Children in Care services
• Strong knowledge of care planning, safeguarding, and court processes
• Experience completing assessments and preparing court reports
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• Ability to work effectively within a busy frontline environment
• Enhanced DBS preferred

Why Work With Us?

• Competitive pay rate of £40.00 per hour
• Hybrid working with 3 office days per week
• Supportive leadership and collaborative team environment
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your assignment
• Access to additional local authority opportunities
• Referral bonus scheme available
• Opportunity to make a lasting impact on children’s lives through permanence planning

For more information or to apply, please contact:

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

Sheldon Phillips are working in partnership with Bury Council to recruit an experienced Social Worker to join their Duty and Assessment Team. This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled practitioner looking for flexibility, offering a 30-hour working week across four days while working within a fast-paced frontline service that plays a vital role in safeguarding children and supporting families at the earliest stage of intervention.

Role Overview

As a Social Worker within the Duty and Assessment Team, you will be responsible for undertaking statutory assessments, responding to safeguarding concerns, and making informed decisions regarding the needs and safety of children and young people. Working closely with partner agencies, you will ensure timely and effective interventions that promote positive outcomes for children and their families.

This position offers a reduced working week of 30 hours across four days, with the non-working day to be taken midweek (not Monday or Friday).

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake Child and Family Assessments in line with statutory requirements.
• Respond to referrals and safeguarding concerns regarding children and young people.
• Complete Section 47 enquiries and contribute to strategy discussions and meetings.
• Assess risk and identify appropriate interventions to safeguard children.
• Develop and implement Child in Need and Child Protection plans.
• Undertake direct work with children and families to assess needs and promote positive change.
• Work collaboratively with partner agencies including education, health, police, and other professionals.
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings, assessments, and reports.
• Attend legal planning meetings, case conferences, and other statutory meetings as required.
• Manage a caseload effectively within a busy Duty and Assessment environment.

Benefits

• £35 per hour pay rate.
• 30 hours per week across 4 working days.
• Flexible working arrangement with a midweek day off.
• Opportunity to work within a supportive and experienced frontline team.
• Varied and rewarding caseload.
• Strong multi-agency working environment.
• Professional development opportunities within a well-established local authority.

Requirements

• Social Work qualification (Degree, DipSW, CQSW or equivalent).
• Registration with Social Work England.
• Experience within a Duty, Assessment, Referral and Assessment, or Safeguarding Team.
• Strong knowledge of safeguarding legislation, policy, and practice.
• Experience undertaking Child and Family Assessments and Section 47 enquiries.
• Ability to assess risk and make sound professional decisions.
• Excellent communication, assessment, and report-writing skills.
• Ability to work effectively within a fast-paced statutory setting.

Interested?

If you're an experienced Children's Social Worker looking for a flexible four-day working week within a busy Duty and Assessment Team, we'd love to hear from you.

Emily Cooper - Recruitment Consultant at Sheldon Phillips
07745 200325 | ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

Social Worker – Assessment Service – London Borough of Bexley

• £39.04 per hour
• Hybrid working – 3 days per week in the office
• Frontline Assessment Team
• Supportive management and stable service
• Excellent opportunity within a well-structured local authority
• Immediate interview availability

We are currently recruiting for an experienced Social Worker to join the Assessment Service at London Borough of Bexley. This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated practitioner looking to work within a fast-paced frontline team, completing high-quality assessments and ensuring children and families receive timely and effective support.

You will be joining a service that values strong relationship-based practice, collaborative working, and high standards of safeguarding. The team benefits from experienced leadership, manageable structures, and flexible hybrid working arrangements.

About the Local Authority

London Borough of Bexley is committed to delivering high-quality services to children and families across the borough. The authority promotes professional development, reflective supervision, and a positive working culture where social workers are supported to deliver effective interventions and achieve the best outcomes for children.

Key Responsibilities

• Completing Child and Family Assessments within statutory timescales
• Undertaking Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries where required
• Carrying out direct work with children and families to assess risk and need
• Developing outcome-focused plans and recommendations
• Working closely with multi-agency professionals to ensure effective safeguarding interventions
• Attending strategy discussions, planning meetings, and case conferences
• Maintaining accurate and up-to-date case recordings and reports
• Progressing cases appropriately to long-term teams or early help services where suitable

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification
• Registered with Social Work England
• Previous experience within an Assessment, Referral & Assessment, or Front Door service
• Strong knowledge of safeguarding legislation and statutory guidance
• Ability to work effectively within a fast-paced frontline environment
• Excellent assessment and communication skills
• Enhanced DBS preferred

Why Work With Us?

• Competitive pay rate of £39.04 per hour
• Flexible hybrid working with 3 office days per week
• Supportive and experienced management team
• Access to a variety of local authority contracts
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your placement
• Referral bonus scheme available
• Opportunity to work within a stable and well-regarded Children’s Service

For more information or to apply, please contact:

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

• £39.04 per hour
• Hybrid working – 3 days per week in the office
• Work within a supportive and fast-paced Safeguarding Service
• Manage complex child protection and safeguarding cases
• Excellent management support and long-term development opportunities
• Opportunity to make a genuine difference to vulnerable children and families

Are you an experienced Social Worker looking for your next opportunity within a dynamic Safeguarding Service? We are currently working with Lewisham Council to recruit a passionate and committed Social Worker to join their frontline safeguarding team.

This is an excellent opportunity to work within a progressive local authority that is committed to delivering outstanding services for children and families. You will play a key role in supporting children subject to Child Protection Plans, Children in Need Plans, and Public Law Outline processes, while working closely with multi-agency partners to achieve positive outcomes.

About the Local Authority

Lewisham Council is recognised for its child-centred approach, strong management structure, and commitment to continuous improvement across Children’s Services. The service promotes a collaborative and supportive culture where practitioners are encouraged to develop professionally while maintaining a healthy work-life balance through flexible hybrid working arrangements.

Key Responsibilities

• Holding and managing a complex caseload involving safeguarding and child protection work
• Completing statutory visits, assessments, and risk analyses within agreed timescales
• Undertaking Section 47 investigations and progressing cases through Child Protection procedures
• Preparing high-quality court statements, reports, and care plans where required
• Working closely with schools, health professionals, police, and partner agencies to safeguard children
• Attending strategy meetings, core groups, child protection conferences, and legal meetings
• Building effective relationships with children and families to promote long-term positive outcomes
• Ensuring all case recordings and documentation are maintained to a high professional standard

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification
• Registered with Social Work England
• Previous experience within a Children’s Safeguarding or Child Protection team
• Strong assessment, report writing, and court work experience
• Sound knowledge of relevant legislation, statutory guidance, and safeguarding procedures
• Ability to work effectively within a fast-paced frontline environment
• Enhanced DBS on the Update Service preferred

Why Work With Us?

• Competitive pay rate of £39.04 per hour
• Hybrid working model with only 3 office days per week
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your assignment
• Access to a wide range of local authority opportunities
• Referral bonus scheme available
• Ongoing contract stability and supportive management structure
• Opportunity to work within a highly regarded London Borough

For more information or to apply, please contact:

Sheldon Phillips are working in partnership with Oldham Council to recruit an experienced Social Worker to join their Children with Complex Needs Team. This is an excellent opportunity to join a well-established, supportive, and highly regarded service within an Ofsted-rated Good local authority. The team works with children and young people with additional and complex needs across a wide range of statutory responsibilities, offering social workers the opportunity to develop specialist knowledge while maintaining a varied and rewarding caseload.

Role Overview

The Children with Complex Needs Team is a generic service supporting children and young people with disabilities, additional needs, and complex circumstances. Social Workers manage cases across the continuum of need, from Child in Need and Child Protection through to Court proceedings, Looked After Children, Adoption, and Transition Planning into Adult Services.

This role offers the opportunity to further develop specialist skills in areas including Mental Capacity Assessments, Best Interest Meetings, Court of Protection applications, and Inherent Jurisdiction work. The team adopts a systemic approach to practice and is committed to achieving positive outcomes for children, young people, and their families.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a diverse caseload involving children and young people with additional and complex needs.
• Undertake Child in Need, Child Protection, Looked After Children, and Care Proceedings work.
• Complete assessments, care planning, reviews, and statutory visits in line with legislation and local procedures.
• Carry out safeguarding investigations and interventions to ensure children remain safe and achieve positive outcomes.
• Work with families requiring support through Public Law Outline (PLO) processes and court proceedings.
• Undertake Mental Capacity Assessments and contribute to Best Interest Meetings where required.
• Support applications relating to the Court of Protection and Inherent Jurisdiction processes.
• Complete carers' assessments and coordinate packages of support and respite care.
• Build effective relationships with children and young people using a range of communication methods, including creative and non-verbal communication techniques.
• Lead transition planning for young people moving into Adult Social Care services.
• Work collaboratively with education, health, adult services, and other partner agencies to deliver coordinated support plans.
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings, assessments, and reports.

Benefits

• £39 per hour pay rate.
• 36.66-hour working week.
• Opportunity to gain specialist experience in disability and complex needs social work.
• Exposure to Mental Capacity, Court of Protection, and transition planning work.
• Supportive and experienced management team.
• Established and friendly team culture.
• Systemic practice model embedded throughout the service.
• Ofsted-rated Good authority.
• Flexible and varied caseload providing excellent professional development opportunities.
• A welcoming office environment with a strong team ethos.

Requirements

• Social Work qualification (Degree, DipSW, CQSW or equivalent).
• Registration with Social Work England.
• Minimum of 3 years post-qualified social work experience.
• Experience within Children's Services, including safeguarding and looked after children processes.
• Knowledge of Child in Need, Child Protection, PLO, Court, and Care Planning processes.
• Ability to undertake complex assessments and formulate effective intervention plans.
• Experience working collaboratively within multi-agency environments.
• Strong assessment, analytical, and report-writing skills.
• Ability to engage effectively with children and young people who have additional communication needs.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle preferred.

Interested?

If you're an experienced Social Worker looking to develop specialist expertise within a highly supportive Children with Complex Needs Team, we'd love to hear from you.

Emily Cooper - Recruitment Consultant at Sheldon Phillips
07745 200325 | ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

Achieving for Children is seeking an experienced Senior Social Worker to join their Referral & Assessment Team covering Kingston and Richmond. This is a fast-paced frontline role focused on completing assessments, managing safeguarding concerns, and supporting children and families at the earliest stage of statutory intervention.

The Referral & Assessment Team sits within the Identification and Assessment Service and works directly with children and families from the point of referral through Child in Need, Child Protection, and where required, initial court proceedings.

Working Pattern:

• 3 days per week in the office
• 2 days remote working

In this role, you will:

• Undertake Child and Family Assessments
• Complete Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries
• Lead Child Protection investigations and safety planning
• Manage Child in Need and Child Protection cases
• Participate in strategy discussions and Initial Child Protection Conferences
• Undertake pre-proceedings and court work, including report writing and statements
• Prepare care plans and make recommendations to improve outcomes for children
• Carry out purposeful direct work with children and families
• Chair and contribute to complex multi-agency meetings
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings

What You’ll Need:

• Social Work England Registration
• Social Work Qualification
• Successful completion of ASYE
• At least 3 years’ post-qualified experience in children’s social care
• Strong experience within Referral & Assessment services
• Child Protection investigation and safeguarding experience
• Court work and pre-proceedings experience
• Excellent assessment, analytical, and report-writing skills
• Strong organisational and communication skills

Why Sheldon Phillips?

Because we actually listen to what you need. We’re not just here to fill roles—we’re here to find you the right fit in a supportive and rewarding team. That’s why social workers trust us to help them take the next step in their careers.

If you want to know more about this Senior Social Worker – Referral & Assessment role in Kingston & Richmond, give Ellis Russell a call on 01635 226350 – let’s have a chat!

And don’t forget – if you refer a friend and we place them, you’ll get £300 as a thank you! (Terms and conditions apply).

Bromley Council is seeking an experienced Senior Social Worker to join their Referral & Assessment Service. This is a fast-paced frontline role focused on undertaking Child and Family Assessments, identifying risk, and ensuring children and families receive the right support at the earliest opportunity.

The Referral & Assessment Teams receive all new referrals from the Bromley MASH and complete statutory assessments to determine the most appropriate interventions for children and families. The service consists of seven teams, each made up of a Team Manager and five Social Workers.

Working Pattern:

• Minimum 3 days per week in the office
• Hybrid working arrangement
• Duty week on a rotational basis (1 week in every 7 weeks) during which new allocations are received

In this role, you will:

• Undertake Child and Family Assessments
• Complete Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries
• Manage a complex caseload within a referral and assessment setting
• Assess risk and develop outcome-focused care plans
• Lead and participate in strategy discussions and multi-agency meetings
• Work directly with children and families to promote positive change
• Support and mentor less experienced Social Workers
• Prepare high-quality reports and maintain accurate case recordings
• Make informed recommendations regarding thresholds and next steps for children and families

What You’ll Need:

• Social Work England Registration
• Social Work Qualification
• At least 3 years’ post-qualified experience in children’s social care
• Strong experience within Referral & Assessment, Duty, or Front Door services
• Confidence managing complex safeguarding and high-risk cases
• Ability to support and guide colleagues
• Excellent assessment, analytical, and communication skills
• Ability to attend the office a minimum of 3 days per week

Why Sheldon Phillips?

Because we actually listen to what you need. We’re not just here to fill roles—we’re here to find you the right fit in a supportive and rewarding team. That’s why social workers trust us to help them take the next step in their careers.

If you want to know more about this Senior Social Worker – Referral & Assessment role in Bromley, give Ellis Russell a call on 01635 226350 – let’s have a chat!

And don’t forget – if you refer a friend and we place them, you’ll get £300 as a thank you! (Terms and conditions apply).

Plymouth Council is offering an excellent opportunity for an experienced Childrens Social Worker to join their Child Protection Team, with a highly competitive rate of up to £45 per hour alongside a £150 weekly accommodation allowance.

Opportunities at this pay level within Childrens Services are limited, making this a fantastic role for experienced practitioners looking for both strong financial reward and a supportive working environment.

This is a frontline Child Protection position suited to confident social workers with solid safeguarding experience and a strong background in court and care proceedings.

What’s on Offer

• Up to £45 per hour
• Additional £150 weekly accommodation allowance
• 37 hours per week
• Hybrid working model
• Minimum 3 days per week on site
• Supportive management team
• Stable service with immediate starts available

The Role
You will join Plymouth Council’s Child Protection Team, managing complex safeguarding cases involving children subject to Child Protection Plans, Child in Need Plans, and care proceedings. The role requires strong assessment skills, confident decision-making, and the ability to work effectively within court processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Managing a caseload within a Child Protection Team
• Completing Child and Family Assessments
• Undertaking Section 47 investigations
• Managing Child Protection and Child in Need plans
• Preparing court reports and statements
• Attending legal meetings and court hearings
• Working closely with partner agencies to safeguard children
• Maintaining accurate and up-to-date case recording

Essential Requirements

• Social Work England registration
• Previous experience within Childrens Services
• Strong Child Protection experience
• Essential experience with court work and care proceedings
• Ability to work on site a minimum of 3 days per week

Please note:

• This role is within Childrens Services and is not an Adults Social Work position
• Unfortunately, sponsorship is not available for this vacancy

Why work with Sheldon Phillips?

• Access to exclusive local authority opportunities
• Dedicated consultant support
• Fast onboarding process
• Competitive rates and weekly payroll
• Referral bonus available

For more information or to apply, please contact:

Josh Dhumisani
07902371315
jdhumisani@sheldon-phillips.com

Pay Rate: £33,755 - £39,547 + £4,500 Car Allowance
Location: Hybrid Working – Doncaster Office with support provided to foster carers across Lincolnshire (areas such as Skegness)
Contract: Permanent
Working Pattern: Full-Time

Sheldon Phillips are working with Five Rivers Child Care to recruit an experienced Supervising Social Worker to join their North Fostering Service. This is an excellent opportunity to join a well-established independent fostering agency that operates using a trauma-informed practice model, providing high-quality support to foster carers and children across Lincolnshire.

The service offers a supportive and collaborative working environment, manageable caseloads, strong clinical support, and a child-centred ethos. The role combines home-based working, office attendance in Doncaster, and regular visits to foster carers throughout the Lincolnshire area.

Role Overview

As a Supervising Social Worker, you will provide ongoing support, supervision, and guidance to foster carers, ensuring children and young people receive safe, stable, and nurturing care. Working within a trauma-informed framework, you will build positive relationships with foster families, contribute to recruitment activity, and complete fostering assessments to support the continued growth of the service.

You will work closely alongside managers, therapeutic practitioners, psychologists, and business support colleagues to ensure foster carers receive comprehensive support and intervention when required.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide regular supervision, support, and guidance to allocated foster carers in line with fostering regulations, national minimum standards, and agency procedures.
• Undertake foster carer supervision visits, annual reviews, unannounced visits, and support sessions to promote high-quality fostering practice.
• Monitor placements and provide intervention where required to maintain placement stability and positive outcomes for children and young people.
• Develop effective working relationships with foster carers, children, young people, local authorities, and partner agencies.
• Complete comprehensive Form F Assessments for prospective foster carers.
• Participate in recruitment activities, fostering information events, and campaigns to attract and assess new foster carers.
• Attend and contribute to foster carer reviews, placement planning meetings, disruption meetings, and multi-agency meetings.
• Provide advice and support regarding safeguarding concerns, behavioural challenges, trauma-informed approaches, and placement issues.
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings, reports, assessments, and statutory documentation.
• Support carers in developing their skills, knowledge, and understanding through training and reflective supervision.
• Work collaboratively with therapeutic practitioners and clinical colleagues to ensure children and foster carers receive appropriate support.
• Participate in the agency on-call rota as required.
• Promote positive outcomes for children and young people through child-centred and trauma-informed practice.

Benefits

• Hybrid working arrangement with a combination of home-based, office-based, and community-based working.
• Manageable caseloads allowing for high-quality support and intervention.
• Professional social work supervision from experienced managers.
• Group clinical supervision provided by qualified psychologists and clinicians.
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Access to high-quality training and professional development opportunities.
• Career progression opportunities within a growing organisation.
• Car allowance and on-call allowance.
• Pension scheme.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Perkbox discount scheme membership.
• Enhanced maternity package.
• Simplyhealth membership.
• Collaborative, therapeutic, and trauma-informed working environment.

Requirements

• Social Work qualification (Degree, DipSW, CQSW, or equivalent).
• Registration with Social Work England.
• Experience working within fostering services, children's social care, or related statutory services.
• Knowledge of fostering legislation, regulations, and safeguarding procedures.
• Experience supporting foster carers, undertaking assessments, and working within multi-agency environments.
• Strong assessment, report-writing, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage a varied workload.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.
• Right to work in the UK.

Interested?

If you are an experienced Supervising Social Worker looking to join a supportive, therapeutic fostering service where you can make a genuine difference to children and foster families, we'd love to hear from you.

Emily Cooper - 07745 200325 | ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

Barnet Council is seeking an experienced Senior Social Worker to join their Long Term Team. This is a rewarding frontline role focused on supporting children and families through sustained intervention, safeguarding planning, and relationship-based practice to achieve positive long-term outcomes.

You will manage a complex caseload of children subject to Child in Need, Child Protection, and court proceedings, while supporting less experienced colleagues and contributing to high standards of practice across the team.

Working Pattern:

• 2–3 days per week in the office
• Hybrid working arrangement

In this role, you will:

• Manage a complex long-term caseload of children and families
• Hold Child in Need and Child Protection cases
• Undertake care proceedings and court-related work where required
• Develop and review outcome-focused care and safeguarding plans
• Undertake statutory visits and direct work with children and families
• Lead and participate in multi-agency meetings, conferences, and legal planning meetings
• Work closely with schools, health professionals, and partner agencies
• Support and mentor less experienced Social Workers
• Prepare high-quality court reports and maintain accurate case recordings

What You’ll Need:

• Social Work England Registration
• Social Work Qualification
• At least 3 years’ post-qualified experience in children’s social care
• Strong Child Protection and Child in Need experience (essential)
• Court work and care proceedings experience (essential)
• Experience within long-term safeguarding services
• Confidence managing complex and high-risk cases
• Ability to support and guide colleagues
• Excellent assessment, analytical, and communication skills

Why Sheldon Phillips?

Because we actually listen to what you need. We’re not just here to fill roles—we’re here to find you the right fit in a supportive and rewarding team. That’s why social workers trust us to help them take the next step in their careers.

If you want to know more about this Senior Social Worker – Long Term Team role in Barnet, give Ellis Russell a call on 01635 226350 – let’s have a chat!

And don’t forget – if you refer a friend and we place them, you’ll get £300 as a thank you! (Terms and conditions apply).

Sheldon Phillips are currently working with Blackpool Children’s Services to recruit an experienced Social Worker to join their Assessment and Support Team on a locum basis.

This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled practitioner looking to work within a fast-paced frontline service supporting children and families through Child in Need, Child Protection, and court proceedings work. The team works closely with partner agencies to deliver timely assessments and robust interventions that improve outcomes for vulnerable children and young people.

Role Overview

As part of the Assessment and Support Team, you will manage a varied caseload involving Children in Need, Child Protection, PLO, and care proceedings work. You will complete assessments, undertake direct work with children and families, and develop plans that reduce risk and promote positive long-term outcomes.

The service requires confident practitioners who are able to manage complex safeguarding concerns, make evidence-based decisions, and work effectively within a multi-agency environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake Child and Family Assessments in line with statutory timescales

• Manage a caseload involving Child in Need, Child Protection, PLO, and court work

• Complete Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries and assessments

• Undertake direct work with children, young people, and families to improve safety and outcomes

• Develop and review child-focused plans that address identified risks and needs

• Prepare high-quality reports, assessments, and court statements

• Attend strategy meetings, ICPCs, core groups, legal meetings, and court hearings

• Work collaboratively with schools, health professionals, police, and other partner agencies

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case recordings and statutory documentation

• Apply strengths-based and relationship-focused practice throughout interventions

Benefits

• £39 per hour

• Full-time position – 37 hours per week

• Hybrid working available

• Supportive management structure

• Busy frontline team with varied and rewarding casework

• Opportunity to work within a well-established safeguarding service

Requirements

• Social Work qualification and SWE registration

• Previous frontline safeguarding experience within children’s services

• Experience completing S17 and S47 investigations

• Confidence managing Child Protection and court work

• Strong assessment, analysis, and report-writing skills

• Ability to work effectively under pressure within a fast-paced environment

• Excellent communication and multi-agency working skills

• Full UK driving licence preferred

Interested?

If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact Emily Cooper at Sheldon Phillips for more information:

07745200325 | ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

Sheldon Phillips are currently working with Rochdale Children’s Services to recruit an experienced Social Worker to join their Safeguarding Team on a locum basis.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a busy and supportive frontline service working with children and families where there are complex safeguarding concerns, Child Protection plans, and care proceedings. The service is looking for confident practitioners who are passionate about improving outcomes for vulnerable children and able to work effectively within a fast-paced statutory environment.

Role Overview

As part of the Safeguarding Team, you will manage a varied caseload involving Child in Need, Child Protection, PLO, and court proceedings work. You will undertake assessments, build strong relationships with children and families, and develop robust plans that reduce risk and promote long-term stability.

The role requires practitioners who are confident in managing complex safeguarding concerns, completing analytical assessments, and working collaboratively with partner agencies to ensure children remain safe and achieve positive outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of children subject to Child in Need and Child Protection plans

• Undertake Section 17 and Section 47 assessments and investigations

• Complete risk assessments, care planning, and direct work with children and families

• Progress cases through Public Law Outline (PLO) and care proceedings where necessary

• Prepare high-quality assessments, reports, and court statements

• Attend strategy discussions, ICPCs, core groups, legal meetings, and court hearings

• Work closely with schools, health services, police, and partner agencies to coordinate safeguarding interventions

• Build effective relationships with children, young people, and families to promote positive change

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case recordings in line with statutory requirements

• Apply strengths-based and child-focused practice throughout all interventions

Benefits

• £39 per hour
• Full-time locum opportunity
• Hybrid working available
• Supportive management and team environment
• Varied and rewarding frontline safeguarding caseload
• Opportunity to develop experience within a busy statutory children’s service

Requirements

• Social Work qualification and SWE registration
• Previous experience within frontline safeguarding teams
• Strong understanding of Child Protection, CIN, PLO, and court proceedings
• Experience completing S17 and S47 investigations
• Excellent assessment, analytical, and report-writing skills
• Ability to manage complex caseloads effectively
• Strong multi-agency working and communication skills
• Full UK driving licence preferred

Interested?

If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact Emily Cooper at Sheldon Phillips for more information:

07745200325 | ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

Sheldon Phillips are currently working with Blackpool Children’s Services to recruit an experienced Social Worker to join their Assessment and Support Team on a locum basis.

This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled practitioner looking to work within a fast-paced frontline service supporting children and families through Child in Need, Child Protection, and court proceedings work. The team works closely with partner agencies to deliver timely assessments and robust interventions that improve outcomes for vulnerable children and young people.

Role Overview

As part of the Assessment and Support Team, you will manage a varied caseload involving Children in Need, Child Protection, PLO, and care proceedings work. You will complete assessments, undertake direct work with children and families, and develop plans that reduce risk and promote positive long-term outcomes.

The service requires confident practitioners who are able to manage complex safeguarding concerns, make evidence-based decisions, and work effectively within a multi-agency environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake Child and Family Assessments in line with statutory timescales
• Manage a caseload involving Child in Need, Child Protection, PLO, and court work
• Complete Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries and assessments
• Undertake direct work with children, young people, and families to improve safety and outcomes
• Develop and review child-focused plans that address identified risks and needs
• Prepare high-quality reports, assessments, and court statements
• Attend strategy meetings, ICPCs, core groups, legal meetings, and court hearings
• Work collaboratively with schools, health professionals, police, and other partner agencies
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case recordings and statutory documentation
• Apply strengths-based and relationship-focused practice throughout interventions

Benefits

• £39 per hour
• Full-time position – 37 hours per week
• Hybrid working available
• Supportive management structure
• Busy frontline team with varied and rewarding casework
• Opportunity to work within a well-established safeguarding service

Requirements

• Social Work qualification and SWE registration
• Previous frontline safeguarding experience within children’s services
• Experience completing S17 and S47 investigations
• Confidence managing Child Protection and court work
• Strong assessment, analysis, and report-writing skills
• Ability to work effectively under pressure within a fast-paced environment
• Excellent communication and multi-agency working skills
• Full UK driving licence preferred

Interested?

If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact Emily Cooper at Sheldon Phillips for more information:

07745200325 | ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

Gloucestershire County Council

£42,000 – £47,000 per annum | £4,000 Welcome Bonus | £8,000 Relocation Package | Visa Sponsorship Transfers Available

Key Highlights

• Permanent Social Worker opportunity
• Salary between £42,000 and £47,000 per annum
• £4,000 Welcome Bonus
• Up to £8,000 Relocation Package Available
• Skilled Worker Visa Transfer Sponsorship Available
• Applications welcomed from Social Workers with a minimum of 2 years' post-qualified experience
• Manageable caseloads and strong management support
• Clear career progression and professional development opportunities
• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements
• Join a forward-thinking authority committed to excellent outcomes for children and families

Are you an experienced Social Worker looking to take the next step in your career with a local authority that genuinely invests in its workforce?

Gloucestershire County Council is seeking passionate and motivated Social Workers to join its Localities Service on a permanent basis. This is an excellent opportunity to join a stable and supportive service where relationship-based practice, professional development, and positive outcomes for children are at the heart of everything they do.

Whether you are already based in the UK or looking to relocate, Gloucestershire offers an attractive package including a generous relocation allowance, welcome bonus, and visa sponsorship transfer opportunities for eligible candidates.

About Gloucestershire's Localities Service

The Localities Service works with children and families requiring ongoing statutory intervention and support. Social Workers manage a varied caseload across Child in Need, Child Protection, Public Law Outline, and care proceedings, providing direct support to children and families while ensuring risks are effectively managed and positive change is achieved.

The service is structured to allow practitioners to develop meaningful relationships with families and partner agencies, ensuring interventions are purposeful, timely, and focused on achieving sustainable outcomes.

You will join a collaborative and supportive team environment where managers are accessible, supervision is reflective, and professional judgement is valued.

Practice Model

Gloucestershire's Children's Services are underpinned by a relationship-based and strengths-led practice model, recognising that lasting change is achieved through effective partnerships with children, families, and communities.

The service promotes:

• Building trusting and purposeful relationships with children and families
• Understanding the child's lived experience and ensuring their voice influences decision-making
• Working alongside families to identify strengths, resources, and protective factors
• Reflective and restorative practice approaches
• Evidence-informed assessments and interventions
• Multi-agency collaboration to improve outcomes and reduce risk
• Professional curiosity and analytical thinking in safeguarding practice
• Timely permanence planning and outcome-focused intervention

Social Workers are encouraged to work creatively and confidently while receiving regular support and guidance from experienced managers and senior practitioners.

Key Responsibilities

• Managing a caseload of children subject to Child in Need and Child Protection plans
• Undertaking comprehensive child and family assessments
• Completing statutory visits and maintaining effective direct work with children
• Assessing risk and implementing safeguarding plans where necessary
• Progressing cases through Public Law Outline and legal proceedings when required
• Preparing high-quality court reports, assessments, and care plans
• Participating in child protection conferences, core groups, reviews, and strategy meetings
• Working closely with schools, health professionals, police, legal representatives, and community partners
• Maintaining accurate case recording and ensuring compliance with statutory timescales
• Supporting permanence planning and ensuring children achieve stable long-term outcomes

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification
• Registered with Social Work England
• Minimum of 2 years' post-qualified experience within Children's Services
• Experience managing Child in Need, Child Protection, and safeguarding cases
• Strong understanding of UK children's legislation, safeguarding frameworks, and statutory guidance
• Excellent assessment, analytical, and report-writing skills
• Ability to work effectively within a multi-agency environment
• Commitment to achieving positive outcomes for children and families

International Applicants Welcome

Gloucestershire County Council welcomes applications from overseas Social Workers currently working in the UK who require a transfer of Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship.

To be considered for sponsorship transfer opportunities, candidates should:

• Hold current registration with Social Work England
• Have a minimum of 2 years' post-qualified Social Work experience
• Be currently sponsored and working within the UK
• Demonstrate strong knowledge of UK safeguarding legislation and statutory practice

This is a fantastic opportunity for experienced practitioners seeking long-term career progression within a supportive local authority.

Why Join Gloucestershire County Council?

• Competitive salary of £42,000 - £47,000 per annum
• £4,000 Welcome Bonus
• Up to £8,000 Relocation Package
• Visa Sponsorship Transfer Available
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• Supportive and approachable management team
• Regular reflective supervision
• Comprehensive learning and development programme
• Career progression opportunities across Children's Services
• Access to specialist training and development pathways
• Strong focus on staff wellbeing and work-life balance
• Opportunity to live and work in one of the UK's most picturesque counties

If you're looking for a local authority that values your expertise, invests in your development, and supports you to deliver outstanding practice, we'd love to hear from you.

Contact

Josh Dhumisani
Senior Recruitment Consultant

Mobile: 07902371315
Email: jdhumisani@sheldon-phillips.com

Somerset Council

Up to £38.00 per Hour | Hybrid Working | 3 Days Office Based

Key Highlights

• Up to £38.00 per hour
• Hybrid working with 3 days per week in the office
• Join a highly regarded Fostering & Kinship Service
• Support foster carers, connected persons carers, and special guardians to provide safe and nurturing homes
• Strong management oversight and regular reflective supervision
• Opportunity to develop specialist expertise within fostering and permanence services
• Ongoing contract within a supportive local authority
• Immediate interview availability

Are you an experienced Social Worker with a passion for supporting children to remain within safe and stable family environments? We are currently recruiting for a Social Worker to join the Fostering & Kinship Team at Somerset Council.

This is an excellent opportunity to become part of a service dedicated to securing permanence and positive outcomes for children through fostering and kinship arrangements. You will work closely with foster carers, connected persons carers, special guardians, and partner agencies to ensure children receive the stability, support, and opportunities they need to thrive.

The successful candidate will join a service that values relationship-based practice, professional development, and collaborative working, providing practitioners with the support required to deliver outstanding outcomes for children and families.

About Somerset Council

Somerset Council is committed to putting children and families at the heart of everything it does. The authority continues to invest in its Children's Services workforce, creating an environment where Social Workers are empowered to build meaningful relationships, exercise professional judgement, and deliver high-quality interventions.

The Fostering & Kinship Service plays a crucial role in ensuring children are cared for within safe, stable, and nurturing family settings whenever possible. The service works proactively with carers and families to promote permanence, placement stability, and lifelong connections for children and young people.

Social Workers benefit from supportive management, accessible leadership, regular supervision, and a culture that encourages learning, reflection, and professional growth.

Practice Model

The service is underpinned by a relationship-based, strengths-focused, and trauma-informed practice model, recognising the importance of understanding each child's experiences and the value of supportive family relationships.

Practitioners are encouraged to:

• Build strong and trusting relationships with carers, children, and families
• Identify and build upon family strengths and support networks
• Promote permanence and long-term stability for children
• Apply trauma-informed approaches when assessing need and providing support
• Use reflective practice and professional curiosity to inform decision-making
• Ensure children's voices, wishes, and lived experiences remain central to all planning
• Work collaboratively with carers and professionals to achieve sustainable outcomes

This approach enables Social Workers to provide effective support while ensuring children remain at the centre of every intervention and decision.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertaking fostering assessments, connected persons assessments, and kinship assessments in accordance with statutory requirements
• Completing viability assessments and contributing to Special Guardianship assessments where required
• Providing ongoing supervision, guidance, and support to approved foster carers and kinship carers
• Assessing support needs and developing plans that promote placement stability and positive outcomes
• Monitoring placements and implementing interventions to prevent placement disruption
• Preparing high-quality reports for fostering panels, permanence panels, court proceedings, and statutory reviews
• Presenting assessments and recommendations at fostering panels and professional meetings
• Supporting carers to meet children's emotional, educational, developmental, and health needs
• Working collaboratively with children's social workers, education professionals, health services, legal representatives, and other partner agencies
• Contributing to permanence planning and ensuring timely progression of care plans
• Maintaining accurate case recordings and ensuring compliance with fostering regulations and statutory guidance

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification
• Registered with Social Work England
• Experience within Fostering, Kinship, Connected Persons, Looked After Children, or Children's Safeguarding Services
• Knowledge of fostering regulations, kinship care legislation, and permanence planning frameworks
• Experience undertaking detailed assessments and producing high-quality reports
• Strong understanding of attachment theory, child development, and trauma-informed practice
• Excellent analytical, assessment, and communication skills
• Ability to build positive relationships with carers, families, and professionals
• Commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for children and young people

Why Work With Somerset Council?

• Competitive rate of up to £38.00 per hour
• Hybrid working with 3 office-based days per week
• Supportive and experienced leadership team
• Regular reflective supervision and case consultation
• Opportunity to work within a specialist fostering and kinship service
• Strong commitment to staff wellbeing and professional development
• Collaborative team culture with accessible management support
• Long-term contract opportunity within a progressive local authority
• Weekly payroll and dedicated recruitment consultant support
• Referral bonus scheme available

This is an excellent opportunity for a Social Worker seeking a rewarding role where they can make a lasting difference to the lives of children and carers while developing specialist expertise within fostering and kinship services.

For more information or to apply, please contact:

Josh Dhumisani
07902371315
jdhumisani@sheldon-phillips.com

Up to £37.52 per Hour | Hybrid Working | 3 Days Office Based

Key Highlights

• Up to £37.52 per hour
• Long Term Child Protection Team
• Hybrid working model with 3 days per week in the office
• Stable caseloads focused on relationship-based interventions
• Supportive management structure and regular reflective supervision
• Opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of vulnerable children and families
• Ongoing contract with immediate interview availability

Are you an experienced Social Worker looking for your next opportunity within a supportive and child-focused service? We are currently recruiting for a Social Worker to join a Long Term Child Protection Team, working with children and families where sustained intervention is required to reduce risk, improve outcomes, and achieve long-term stability.

This role offers the opportunity to undertake meaningful direct work with children and families while managing complex safeguarding cases through effective assessment, planning, and intervention. The team works with children subject to Child Protection Plans, Child in Need Plans, Public Law Outline processes, and permanence planning, ensuring that children remain at the centre of all decision-making.

About the Service

The Long Term Child Protection Team provides ongoing support and intervention for children and families where safeguarding concerns require longer-term involvement. Practitioners work closely with families to understand risk, build on strengths, and support positive change whilst ensuring that children are protected and their welfare remains paramount.

The service promotes high-quality practice through manageable workloads, strong management oversight, regular supervision, and collaborative multi-agency working. Social Workers are encouraged to develop strong relationships with children and families, enabling effective intervention and better outcomes.

Practice Model

The team operates within a relationship-based and strengths-focused practice model, recognising that meaningful change is most effectively achieved through positive and purposeful engagement with children and families.

The approach focuses on:

• Building trusting and professional relationships with children and their families
• Understanding each child’s lived experience and ensuring their voice informs planning and decision-making
• Working collaboratively with families to identify strengths, risks, and support networks
• Delivering evidence-informed interventions that promote safety and stability
• Using reflective practice and professional curiosity to inform assessments and decision-making
• Supporting families to achieve sustainable change whilst maintaining a clear focus on safeguarding responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

• Managing a caseload of children subject to Child Protection Plans and Child in Need Plans
• Undertaking statutory visits and maintaining purposeful direct work with children and families
• Completing comprehensive assessments, risk assessments, and care planning activities
• Monitoring and reviewing child protection plans to ensure risks are effectively managed
• Progressing cases through Public Law Outline and legal planning processes where required
• Preparing reports for conferences, court proceedings, and other statutory meetings
• Participating in strategy discussions, core groups, reviews, and multi-agency meetings
• Working in partnership with schools, health professionals, police, legal representatives, and partner agencies
• Maintaining accurate and timely case recordings in accordance with statutory requirements and local procedures
• Contributing to permanence planning and ensuring children achieve safe and stable outcomes without unnecessary delay

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification
• Registered with Social Work England
• Experience within Child Protection, Child in Need, or long-term safeguarding services
• Strong knowledge of relevant childcare legislation, statutory guidance, and safeguarding procedures
• Ability to undertake complex assessments and manage risk effectively
• Excellent report writing, analytical, and communication skills
• Commitment to achieving positive outcomes for children and families
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multi-agency environment

Why Work With Us?

• Competitive rate of up to £37.52 per hour
• Hybrid working with 3 office days per week
• Supportive and experienced management team
• Regular reflective supervision and case support
• Opportunity to work within a stable and well-established service
• Access to ongoing professional development opportunities
• Dedicated recruitment consultant throughout your assignment
• Weekly payroll and referral bonus scheme

For further information or to apply, please contact:

Josh Dhumisani
07902371315
jdhumisani@sheldon-phillips.com

Social Worker – Safeguarding Team

Pay Rate: £33.30 per hour
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

Worcestershire County Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join its Safeguarding Team.
You will work with children and families where safeguarding concerns have been identified, ensuring timely and effective interventions to protect children and improve outcomes.

This is a supportive and collaborative service with a strong focus on relationship-based practice and multi-agency working.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake Section 47 enquiries and Child and Family Assessments.
• Manage a caseload of CIN and CP cases, including court work where required.
• Develop and implement robust safety and support plans.
• Work collaboratively with partner agencies including health, education, and police.
• Undertake direct work with children and families.
• Prepare high-quality reports for conferences, reviews, and court.
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings.

Practice Model Used by Worcestershire

Worcestershire uses a Strengths-Based Practice Model supported by Signs of Safety principles.
This approach focuses on:

• Building collaborative relationships with children and families
• Identifying strengths and support networks
• Transparent risk assessment and safety planning
• Child-centred and outcome-focused interventions
• Reflective supervision and continuous professional development
• The model supports consistent, relationship-based social work practice.

Why Worcestershire Is a Great Place to Live and Work

Worcestershire offers an excellent balance of countryside living and modern amenities:

• Beautiful rural surroundings including the Malvern Hills and picturesque market towns.
• Affordable housing and lower cost of living compared to many parts of the UK.
• Strong transport links to Birmingham, Bristol, and the wider Midlands region.
• Friendly communities with excellent schools and local amenities.
• A supportive local authority focused on staff wellbeing, development, and improving outcomes for children.
• It’s a fantastic place to build your career while enjoying a high quality of life.

Interested?

To apply, please send your CV to:
dmitchell@sheldon-phillips.com

For more information, call:
07561 805654

Lambeth Council is seeking an experienced Senior Social Worker to join Child Assessment Team 2. This is a frontline statutory role focused on safeguarding children, completing high-quality assessments, and delivering effective interventions for children and families.

The successful candidate will manage a complex caseload within a fast-paced assessment service, working closely with multi-agency partners to ensure children receive timely and effective support.

Working Pattern:

• 2 days per week in the office
• Hybrid working arrangement

In this role, you will:

• Manage a complex caseload of children and families
• Undertake Child and Family Assessments
• Complete Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries
• Lead Child Protection investigations and safeguarding interventions
• Prepare reports and applications for court proceedings
• Develop and review Child in Need, Child Protection, and Looked After Children plans
• Work collaboratively with multi-agency partners to safeguard children
• Maintain accurate and high-quality case recordings
• Attend and contribute to conferences, reviews, panels, and legal meetings
• Promote relationship-based and evidence-informed practice

What You’ll Need:

• Social Work England Registration
• Social Work Qualification
• At least 3 years’ post-qualified experience in children’s social care
• Recent experience within an Assessment Team
• Strong safeguarding, court work, and assessment experience
• Confidence managing complex and high-risk cases
• Excellent assessment, analytical, and communication skills

Why Sheldon Phillips?

Because we actually listen to what you need. We’re not just here to fill roles—we’re here to find you the right fit in a supportive and rewarding team. That’s why social workers trust us to help them take the next step in their careers.

If you want to know more about this Senior Social Worker – Assessment role in Lambeth, give Ellis Russell a call on 01635 226350 – let’s have a chat!

And don’t forget – if you refer a friend and we place them, you’ll get £300 as a thank you! (Terms and conditions apply).

Senior Social Worker – Assessment Team

Pay Rate: £33.30 per hour
Hours: 36.5 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

Birmingham Children's Trust is seeking an experienced Senior Social Worker to join its Assessment Team.
You will work with children and families at the front door of services, completing assessments and identifying the appropriate level of intervention to safeguard children and promote positive outcomes.

This role offers the opportunity to manage complex cases while supporting colleagues and contributing to high-quality practice within the team.

Key Responsibilities

• Complete Child and Family Assessments and Section 47 enquiries.
• Manage complex safeguarding cases and provide guidance to less experienced staff.
• Develop and implement effective safety and support plans.
• Work collaboratively with partner agencies including health, education, and police.
• Undertake direct work with children and families.
• Prepare high-quality reports for conferences, reviews, and court proceedings.
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings.

Practice Model Used by Birmingham

Birmingham Children’s Trust uses a Strengths-Based, Relationship-Focused Practice Model supported by Signs of Safety.
This approach focuses on:

• Building strong relationships with children and families
• Collaborative and transparent practice
• Identifying strengths and support networks
• Clear risk assessment and safety planning
• Reflective supervision and continuous professional development
• The model supports consistent, child-centred social work practice across services.

Why Birmingham Is a Great Place to Live and Work

• Birmingham is one of the UK’s most vibrant and diverse cities, offering excellent opportunities both professionally and personally:
• Affordable living compared to many major UK cities.
• Excellent transport links across the UK, including direct rail routes to London, Manchester, and beyond.
• A thriving cultural scene with restaurants, shopping, music, and sporting events.
• Access to green spaces, canals, and surrounding countryside.
• Strong professional opportunities within one of the UK’s largest Children’s Services organisations.
• A supportive and developing service focused on improving outcomes for children and investing in staff.
• It’s a fantastic place to develop your career while enjoying everything a major city has to offer.

Interested?

To apply, please send your CV to:
dmitchell@sheldon-phillips.com

For more information, call:
07561 805654

Social Worker – Safeguarding Team

Pay Rate: £39 per hour
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

Peterborough City Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join its Safeguarding Team.
You will work with children and families where safeguarding concerns have been identified, completing assessments and delivering interventions to ensure children are protected and supported effectively.

This is a supportive and well-structured service with a strong focus on multi-agency collaboration and achieving positive outcomes for children.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake Section 47 enquiries and Child and Family Assessments.
• Manage a caseload of CIN and CP cases, including court work where required.
• Develop and implement robust safety and support plans.
• Work collaboratively with partner agencies including health, education, and police.
• Undertake direct work with children and families.
• Prepare high-quality reports for conferences, reviews, and court.
• Maintain accurate and timely case records.

Practice Model Used by Peterborough

Peterborough uses a Strengths-Based Practice Model, supported by Signs of Safety.
This approach focuses on:

• Collaborative, transparent work with families
• Identifying strengths and support networks
• Clear and structured risk assessment
• Effective safety planning
• Reflective supervision and continuous professional development
• The model supports consistent, relationship-based safeguarding practice.

Why Peterborough Is a Great Place to Live and Work

Peterborough offers a strong balance of affordability, connectivity, and lifestyle:

• Affordable housing compared to many areas in the South East.
• Excellent transport links with direct rail access to London in under an hour.
• Access to green spaces including Nene Park and surrounding countryside.
• A diverse and welcoming community with excellent local amenities.
• A growing city with continued investment and regeneration.
• A supportive local authority focused on staff development and improving outcomes for children.
• It’s a great place to build your career while maintaining a strong work-life balance.

Interested?

To apply, please send your CV to:
dmitchell@sheldon-phillips.com

For more information, call:
07561 805654

Bexley | Locum | £39.04 per hour | Hybrid Working

Bexley Council is seeking an experienced Senior Social Worker to join their Assessment Team. This is a frontline role focused on completing high-quality assessments, managing safeguarding concerns, and ensuring children and families receive timely and effective interventions.

You will manage a complex caseload while supporting less experienced colleagues and contributing to strong, relationship-based practice across the service.

In this role, you will:

• Undertake Child and Family Assessments
• Complete Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries
• Manage a complex caseload within an assessment setting
• Assess risk and develop outcome-focused care plans
• Lead and participate in multi-agency meetings and strategy discussions
• Support and mentor less experienced Social Workers
• Prepare high-quality reports and maintain accurate case recordings

What You’ll Need:

• Social Work England Registration
• Social Work Qualification
• At least 3 years’ post-qualified experience in children’s social care
• Strong experience within Assessment or Duty teams
• Confidence managing complex safeguarding and high-risk cases
• Ability to support and guide colleagues
• Excellent assessment, analytical, and communication skills

Why Sheldon Phillips?

Because we actually listen to what you need. We’re not just here to fill roles—we’re here to find you the right fit in a supportive and rewarding team. That’s why social workers trust us to help them take the next step in their careers.

If you want to know more about this Senior Social Worker – Assessment role in Bexley, give Ellis Russell a call on 01635 226350 – let’s have a chat!

And don’t forget – if you refer a friend and we place them, you’ll get £300 as a thank you! (Terms and conditions apply).

Lambeth Council is seeking an experienced Team Manager to join their Children’s Services. This is a leadership role focused on delivering high-quality social work practice, safeguarding children, and supporting frontline teams within a fast-paced statutory environment.

The successful candidate will manage the day-to-day operational running of the team, ensuring children receive effective and timely interventions while maintaining high practice standards across the service.

Working Pattern:

• 5 days in the office every other week
• Hybrid working arrangement

In this role, you will:

• Lead and manage a team of Social Workers within Children’s Services
• Oversee safeguarding practice and ensure statutory responsibilities are met
• Allocate and monitor workloads to ensure effective service delivery
• Provide regular reflective supervision and performance management
• Support staff development, mentoring, and professional practice
• Chair meetings including strategy discussions, reviews, and planning meetings
• Monitor practice quality through audits, oversight, and performance reporting
• Ensure accurate recording and compliance on Mosaic systems
• Work collaboratively with partner agencies including Health, Education, Police, and Housing
• Contribute to service development and implementation of new initiatives

What You’ll Need:

• Social Work England Registration
• Recognised Social Work Qualification
• Significant post-qualified experience within frontline children’s social care
• Previous management or supervisory experience within Children’s Services
• Strong safeguarding, child protection, and court work experience
• Excellent leadership, analytical, and decision-making skills
• Strong knowledge of relevant legislation and statutory guidance

Why Sheldon Phillips?

Because we actually listen to what you need. We’re not just here to fill roles—we’re here to find you the right fit in a supportive and rewarding team. That’s why social workers trust us to help them take the next step in their careers.

If you want to know more about this Team Manager role in Lambeth, give Ellis Russell a call on 01635 226350 – let’s have a chat!

And don’t forget – if you refer a friend and we place them, you’ll get £300 as a thank you! (Terms and conditions apply).

Senior Social Worker – Children in Need Team

Islington Council

£39.04 per hour | Locum Contract | Hybrid Working

• Excellent pay rate of £39.04 per hour
• Dedicated Children in Need Team – separate from Child Protection
• Manageable caseloads with supportive management
• Hybrid working available
• Opportunity to work within a progressive London local authority

Are you an experienced Children’s Social Worker looking for a supportive frontline role where you can focus on meaningful intervention and long-term family support, without the demands of Child Protection?

We are currently working with Islington Council to recruit an experienced Senior Social Worker into their Children in Need Team. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a stable and well-regarded service focused on delivering high-quality interventions to children and families requiring support under Section 17.

Importantly, this team is separate from Child Protection, allowing Social Workers to focus on relationship-based practice, early intervention, and improving long-term outcomes for families without holding CP conference or CP investigation responsibilities.

The Role

As a Senior Social Worker within the Children in Need Team, you will:

• Manage a caseload of children and families supported under Section 17
• Complete Child & Family Assessments and develop outcome-focused CIN plans
• Undertake direct work with children and families to promote positive change
• Build strong relationships with families through strengths-based interventions
• Work collaboratively with schools, health professionals, housing, and partner agencies
• Support children at risk of escalation and prevent progression into Child Protection where safe to do so
• Prepare clear and analytical assessments, reports, and case recordings
• Support less experienced colleagues through mentoring and shared practice learning
• Participate in CIN reviews and multi-agency planning meetings

What We’re Looking For

• Qualified Social Worker registered with Social Work England
• Previous experience within Children in Need, Assessment, or Safeguarding teams
• Strong assessment, planning, and direct work skills
• Confident working within statutory children’s services
• Ability to manage complex family situations and multi-agency working effectively
• Minimum 3 years’ post-qualified experience preferred

Why Join Islington?

• Competitive rate of £39.04 per hour
• Stable and supportive management structure
• Dedicated CIN service separate from Child Protection
• Strong emphasis on relationship-based practice
• Hybrid working flexibility
• Excellent transport links across London
• Opportunity to join a highly regarded local authority with strong practice standards

For more information or to apply, contact:

Josh Dhumisani
📞 07902 371315
📧 jdhumisani@sheldon-phillips.com

Sheldon Phillips are currently working with Rochdale Borough Council to recruit an experienced Social Worker into their Safeguarding Team. This is a great opportunity to join a busy frontline service supporting children and families through safeguarding intervention, child protection planning and court proceedings.

Role Overview

The Safeguarding Team works with children and families subject to Child in Need, Child Protection and pre-proceedings plans. The successful candidate will manage complex safeguarding cases while working closely with partner agencies to ensure children are protected and supported effectively.

Key Responsibilities

• Managing safeguarding and child protection cases

• Completing S17 and S47 enquiries

• Undertaking Child and Family Assessments

• Managing Child in Need and Child Protection plans

• Completing court work, PLO and pre-proceedings work

• Working in partnership with multi-agency professionals

• Undertaking direct work with children and families

• Maintaining accurate and timely case recording

Benefits

• Competitive rate of £39 per hour

• Supportive management team

• Flexible hybrid working available

• Busy frontline safeguarding environment

• Long-term opportunities available

Requirements

• SWE Registration

• Social Work qualification

• Strong safeguarding and assessment experience

• Court work and PLO knowledge

• Ability to manage complex frontline caseloads

• Excellent communication and organisational skills

Interested?

If you would like to hear more about this opportunity, please contact Emily Cooper at Sheldon Phillips on 07745200325 or ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

Sheldon Phillips are currently working with Westmorland and Furness Council to recruit an experienced Social Worker into their Assessment and Safeguarding Team. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a frontline service offering an excellent pay rate while working within a supportive safeguarding environment.

Role Overview

The successful candidate will manage a varied caseload involving assessments, safeguarding intervention and court work. The team works with children and families from referral stage through Child Protection and pre-proceedings, ensuring children receive timely and effective intervention.

Key Responsibilities

• Completing Child and Family Assessments

• Undertaking S17 and S47 enquiries

• Managing Child Protection and Child in Need plans

• Completing court reports and supporting care proceedings

• Undertaking PLO and pre-proceedings work

• Working closely with multi-agency partners

• Completing direct work with children and families

• Maintaining high-quality recording and assessments

Benefits

• Competitive rate of £45.56 per hour

• Flexible hybrid working arrangements

• Supportive management structure

• High-performing frontline safeguarding service

• Long-term contract opportunities

Requirements

• SWE Registration

• Social Work qualification

• Strong assessment and safeguarding experience

• Court and PLO experience

• Ability to manage complex cases independently

• Excellent communication and assessment skills

Interested?

If you would like to hear more about this opportunity, please contact Emily Cooper at Sheldon Phillips on 07745200325 or ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com.

Sheldon Phillips are currently working with North Yorkshire Council to recruit an experienced Social Worker into their FAST Team. This is an excellent opportunity to join a frontline service working directly with children and families to reduce risk and achieve positive long-term outcomes through timely intervention and relationship-based practice.

Role Overview

The FAST Team works with children and families requiring support through Child in Need, Child Protection and court processes. The team focuses on building relationships with families while managing safeguarding concerns and ensuring children remain safe within their networks wherever possible.

Key Responsibilities

• Managing Child in Need, Child Protection and court cases

• Completing S17 and S47 investigations and assessments

• Undertaking direct work with children and families

• Working closely with partner agencies to safeguard children

• Completing court reports, PLO work and care proceedings

• Developing outcome-focused care and support plans

• Attending multi-agency meetings and strategy discussions

• Maintaining accurate case recording and assessments

Benefits

• Competitive rate of £37.79 per hour

• Supportive team environment

• Flexible hybrid working opportunities

• Long-term contract potential

• Strong management and peer support

Requirements

• SWE Registration

• Social Work qualification

• Frontline safeguarding experience

• Court work and PLO experience

• Ability to manage complex caseloads effectively

• Strong communication and relationship-building skills

Interested?

If you would like to hear more about this opportunity, please contact Emily Cooper at Sheldon Phillips on 07745200325 or ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com.

Sheldon Phillips are currently working with Leeds City Council to recruit an experienced Senior Social Worker into their Children in Care Team. This is an excellent opportunity to join a well-established service supporting children and young people in long-term care and care proceedings.

Role Overview

The role involves supporting children in care through long-term planning, permanency, pathway planning and safeguarding intervention. You will manage a varied caseload while working closely with foster carers, families and partner agencies to achieve positive outcomes for children and young people.

Key Responsibilities

• Managing Children in Care cases from care proceedings through to permanence

• Completing care planning and pathway planning for young people

• Undertaking statutory visits and maintaining strong relationships with children

• Working closely with foster carers, residential placements and partner agencies

• Supporting court work and care proceedings where required

• Completing assessments, reports and permanency planning

• Supporting young people transitioning towards independence

• Maintaining accurate and timely case recording

Benefits

• Competitive rate of £35 per hour

• Supportive and stable management team

• Flexible hybrid working arrangements

• Long-term contracts available

• Opportunity to work within an experienced Children in Care service

Requirements

• SWE Registration

• Social Work qualification

• Experience within Children in Care services

• Strong care planning and safeguarding experience

• Court and permanence planning knowledge

• Ability to manage complex cases effectively

Interested?

If you would like to hear more about this opportunity, please contact Emily Cooper at Sheldon Phillips on 07745200325 or ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com.

Sheldon Phillips are currently working with Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council to recruit an experienced Social Worker into their specialist Exploitation Team. This is an exciting opportunity to work within a dedicated service supporting children and young people at risk of exploitation, contextual safeguarding concerns, missing episodes and complex extra-familial harm.

Role Overview

The successful candidate will work with vulnerable children and adolescents who are at risk of child criminal exploitation, child sexual exploitation, missing from home episodes and wider contextual safeguarding concerns. The team works closely with partner agencies to reduce risk and improve outcomes for young people across the borough.

Key Responsibilities

• Managing complex exploitation and contextual safeguarding cases

• Completing assessments, safety planning and direct work with young people

• Working closely with police, education and youth services

• Responding to missing episodes and exploitation concerns

• Undertaking S17 and S47 enquiries where required

• Contributing towards strategy meetings and risk management planning

• Supporting young people affected by criminal or sexual exploitation

• Maintaining accurate recording and risk assessments

Benefits

• Competitive rate of £41 per hour

• Specialist exploitation-focused role

• Supportive multi-agency working environment

• Opportunity to work within a highly experienced specialist team

• Flexible working arrangements available

Requirements

• SWE Registration

• Social Work qualification

• Experience within safeguarding or adolescent services

• Strong understanding of contextual safeguarding and exploitation

• Ability to manage high-risk and complex cases

• Excellent multi-agency working skills

Interested?

If you would like to hear more about this opportunity, please contact Emily Cooper at Sheldon Phillips on 07745200325 or ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com.

• Progressing permanency plans for children in care
• Supporting care planning and permanence tracking across the service
• Working alongside operational teams to reduce drift and delay
• Liaising with fostering, adoption and legal teams
• Supporting long-term matching and permanence planning
• Contributing towards care planning meetings and reviews
• Assisting with court progression and permanence-related planning
• Ensuring children’s plans remain outcome-focused and child-centred

• Competitive rate of £35 per hour
• Non-case holding position
• Opportunity to focus solely on permanency outcomes
• Supportive management team
• Flexible hybrid working arrangements