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

• SWE Registration
• Social Work qualification
• Extensive Children in Care experience
• Strong understanding of permanence planning and care proceedings
• Experience working alongside fostering and adoption services
• Ability to manage competing priorities and progress plans effectively

Sheldon Phillips are working with Barnsley Council to recruit an experienced Advanced Practitioner into their Duty and Assessment Team. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced practitioner looking to take on a leadership role within a fast-paced frontline service, supporting social workers while holding complex safeguarding cases and driving high-quality practice across the team.

Role Overview

As an Advanced Practitioner within the Duty and Assessment Team, you will work with children and families at the point of referral, completing robust assessments and ensuring children are safeguarded effectively through timely intervention and multi-agency working. You will also support less experienced staff, assist with oversight of practice, and contribute towards service development.

Key Responsibilities

• Completing Child and Family Assessments, S17 and S47 enquiries
• Managing complex safeguarding and child protection cases
• Supporting social workers with decision-making and case direction
• Undertaking court work, PLO and pre-proceedings work where required
• Chairing strategy discussions and supporting multi-agency planning
• Providing mentoring and practice support to team members
• Ensuring assessments and recording are completed to a high standard
• Working closely with partner agencies to reduce risk and improve outcomes

Benefits

• Competitive rate of £37 per hour
• Supportive management structure
• Opportunity to step into a leadership-focused role
• Flexible working arrangements available
• Busy frontline team with strong multi-agency links

Requirements

• SWE Registration
• Social Work qualification
• Significant post-qualified Children’s Services experience
• Strong safeguarding, assessment and court work experience
• Previous experience supporting or mentoring practitioners
• Ability to work effectively within a fast-paced frontline service

Interested?

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

Adult Social Worker – Transitions Team

Pay Rate: £28.20 per hour
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

Staffordshire County Council is seeking an experienced Adult Social Worker to join its Transitions Team.
You will support young people transitioning from Children’s Services into Adult Services, ensuring they receive the appropriate care, support, and guidance to promote independence and positive long-term outcomes.

This role involves close partnership working with families, education providers, health professionals, and multi-agency teams to deliver person-centred transition planning.

Key Responsibilities

• Complete Care Act assessments and transition assessments.
• Support young people moving from Children’s Services into Adult Services.
• Develop person-centred care and support plans.
• Work collaboratively with education, health, and community services.
• Promote independence, wellbeing, and positive life outcomes.
• Manage safeguarding concerns where required.
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings and reports.

Practice Model Used by Staffordshire

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

• Building collaborative relationships with young people and families
• Promoting independence and personal strengths
• Person-centred and outcome-focused planning
• Transparent assessment and support planning
• Reflective supervision and continuous professional development
• The model supports high-quality, relationship-based social work practice.

Why Staffordshire Is a Great Place to Live and Work

Staffordshire offers an excellent balance of countryside living and strong connectivity:

• Access to beautiful outdoor spaces including Cannock Chase.
• Affordable housing and 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 surrounding Midlands areas.
• A supportive local authority committed to staff wellbeing, learning, and career development.
• It’s a great place to develop 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

Senior Practitioner – Kinship and Fostering Assessment Team

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

About the Role

Staffordshire County Council is seeking an experienced Senior Practitioner to join its Kinship and Fostering Assessment Team.
You will play a key role in assessing and supporting kinship carers and foster carers, ensuring children are placed in safe, stable, and nurturing environments.

This position combines complex assessment work with mentoring and supporting colleagues to maintain high standards of practice across the service.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake comprehensive kinship and fostering assessments.
• Complete viability assessments and connected persons assessments.
• Support the recruitment and assessment of foster carers.
• Provide guidance and support to Social Workers within the team.
• Work closely with children, families, carers, and multi-agency professionals.
• Prepare high-quality reports for fostering panels and court proceedings.
• Promote permanence and positive outcomes for children in care.

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
• Clear and transparent assessment processes
• Supporting positive change through restorative approaches
• Reflective supervision and continuous professional development
• The model supports consistent, child-centred practice and positive outcomes.

Interested?

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

For more information, call:
07561 805654

Social Worker – Looked After Children

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

About the Role

Derbyshire 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 close partnership working with foster carers, residential providers, and multi-agency professionals to secure permanence and promote positive outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

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

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, families, and carers
• 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.

Interested?

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

For more information, call:
07561 805654

Weybridge Office | Surrey County Council
£45.00 per hour
Locum Contract | Full-Time
Hybrid Working Available

• Competitive locum rate of £45.00 per hour
• Based within the Weybridge office
• Leadership opportunity within a well-established Safeguarding Service
• Supportive senior management and collaborative working culture
• Flexible hybrid working arrangements
• Immediate start available

Are you an experienced Team Manager or Senior Practitioner ready to take the next step in your leadership career? Surrey County Council is seeking an accomplished Team Manager to join their Safeguarding Service based in Weybridge, leading a dedicated frontline team focused on delivering high-quality outcomes for children and families.

This is an exciting opportunity to work within one of the country’s leading local authorities, where strong leadership, reflective supervision, and relationship-based practice are central to service delivery. You’ll play a key role in driving performance, supporting staff development, and ensuring children receive timely and effective safeguarding interventions.

About the Authority

Surrey County Council is recognised for its commitment to delivering excellent children’s services and investing in its workforce. The Safeguarding Service promotes a collaborative and supportive environment where managers are empowered to lead confidently while maintaining a strong focus on quality practice and positive outcomes for children.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, supervise, and support a team of Social Workers within the Safeguarding Service
• Oversee complex Child Protection, Child in Need, and court work cases
• Ensure high-quality assessments, plans, and interventions are delivered consistently
• Provide reflective supervision, mentoring, and performance management to team members
• Monitor team performance and ensure statutory timescales are met
• Chair meetings and contribute to strategy discussions and multi-agency planning
• Support service development and continuous improvement initiatives

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification
• Registered with Social Work England
• Previous management or senior practitioner experience within Children’s Safeguarding services
• Strong knowledge of safeguarding legislation and statutory frameworks
• Experience overseeing complex child protection and court proceedings work
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organisational skills

Why Work With Us?

• Excellent locum rate of £45.00 per hour
• Flexible hybrid working model
• Supportive senior leadership structure
• Opportunity to work within a highly regarded local authority
• Collaborative and experienced safeguarding teams
• Fast-track interview and onboarding process

📞 For more information or to apply, please contact:

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

Locum Social Worker – Safeguarding Service

London Borough of Lewisham
£39.04 per hour
Locum Contract | Full-Time
Hybrid Working Available

• Excellent hourly rate of £39.04 per hour
• Flexible hybrid working arrangements
• Join a highly regarded Safeguarding Service in South East London
• Supportive management and collaborative team environment
• Immediate interview and start available

Are you an experienced Children’s Social Worker looking for your next locum opportunity within a fast-paced and supportive Safeguarding Service? Lewisham Council is seeking a committed and motivated Social Worker to join their frontline safeguarding team, supporting vulnerable children and families across the borough.

This is a fantastic opportunity to work within a well-established local authority known for its diverse communities, strong leadership, and child-centred practice approach. You’ll be joining a service focused on delivering high-quality interventions and achieving positive outcomes for children through relationship-based social work.

About the Authority

London Borough of Lewisham has built a strong reputation for investing in its frontline services and promoting a supportive working culture for practitioners. The Safeguarding Service works closely with partner agencies to ensure children remain safe while supporting families through effective intervention and planning.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of children subject to Child Protection and Child in Need plans
• Undertake statutory visits, assessments, and risk analysis
• Complete court reports and care proceedings work where required
• Develop and implement outcome-focused care plans
• Work collaboratively with multi-agency professionals to safeguard children
• Ensure all recording and case management is completed to a high standard
• Maintain direct and meaningful engagement with children and families

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification
• Registered with Social Work England
• Previous experience within Children’s Safeguarding teams
• Strong knowledge of UK safeguarding legislation and statutory frameworks
• Confident managing complex caseloads in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent communication and assessment skills

Why Work With Us?

• Competitive locum rate of £39.04 per hour
• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements
• Supportive and experienced management team
• Opportunity to work within a respected London local authority
• Fast and efficient onboarding process
• Ongoing support from a dedicated recruitment consultant

📞 For more information or to apply, please contact:

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

Senior Social Worker / Social Worker – Family Safeguarding Service

Swindon Borough Council
Up to £50,000 per annum
£8,000 Relocation Package Available
Permanent | Full-Time
Please note: This role does not offer sponsorship.

• Up to £50,000 salary depending on experience
• £8,000 relocation bonus for qualifying candidates relocating to the area
• Stable permanent opportunity within a well-established Family Safeguarding Service
• Supportive management structure with strong learning and development culture
• Flexible working arrangements available
• Sponsorship is not available for this position

Are you an experienced Social Worker or Senior Social Worker looking to make a genuine difference within a progressive and relationship-focused authority? Swindon Borough Council is expanding its Family Safeguarding Service and is looking for passionate practitioners who are committed to improving outcomes for children and families.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a forward-thinking local authority that places strong emphasis on collaborative practice, manageable caseloads, and continuous professional development. You’ll work within a multi-disciplinary safeguarding environment where practitioners are empowered to build meaningful relationships with families while receiving consistent support from experienced leadership teams.

About the Authority

Swindon Borough Council is committed to creating lasting positive change for children and young people. Their Family Safeguarding model focuses on keeping families together safely through evidence-based interventions and strong multi-agency working. The service promotes a healthy work-life balance, reflective supervision, and clear progression pathways for ambitious practitioners.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of children and families subject to Child Protection, Child in Need, and care proceedings
• Complete high-quality assessments, reports, and plans in line with statutory responsibilities
• Build strong, effective relationships with children, families, and partner agencies
• Undertake direct work with children to ensure their voices remain central to planning
• Participate in strategy discussions, core groups, child protection conferences, and court work where required
• Contribute to a positive team culture focused on restorative and relationship-based practice
• Support and mentor less experienced staff where appropriate (Senior Social Worker level)

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification
• Registered with Social Work England
• Experience within Children’s Safeguarding/Family Safeguarding services
• Strong assessment, risk management, and court work experience
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• Full UK driving licence preferred

Why Work With Us?

• Competitive salary package up to £50,000
• £8,000 relocation support for eligible candidates moving to the area
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• Clear career progression opportunities
• Ongoing training and development programmes
• Supportive leadership and reflective supervision
• Opportunity to make a real impact within a progressive safeguarding service

📞 For more information or to apply, please contact:

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

Social Worker – Children with Disabilities & Occupational Therapy Team

Up to £39.04 per hour | Hybrid Working | 2–3 Days Office Based

• Competitive pay rate of up to £39.04 per hour
• Hybrid working model with only 2–3 office days per week
• Work within a specialist Children with Disabilities & Occupational Therapy service
• Support children and young people with complex needs and disabilities
• Stable and supportive management structure
• Opportunity to make a lasting impact on vulnerable children and families

Are you an experienced Social Worker passionate about improving outcomes for children with disabilities and complex additional needs? We are currently working with a highly supportive local authority seeking an experienced Social Worker to join their Children with Disabilities & Occupational Therapy Team on a locum basis.

This is an excellent opportunity to work in a specialist service that focuses on delivering high-quality assessments, tailored care planning, and multi-agency interventions to support children and young people with disabilities to thrive safely within their families and communities.

About the Local Authority

This authority is recognised for its child-centred approach, collaborative culture, and commitment to flexible working. You’ll be joining a dedicated multidisciplinary team where Social Workers and Occupational Therapists work closely together to deliver holistic and impactful support to children and families.

The service promotes manageable caseloads, reflective supervision, and ongoing professional development, ensuring practitioners feel valued and supported in their roles.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake assessments under the Children Act 1989 for children with disabilities and complex needs
• Complete Child in Need, Child Protection, and Looked After Children processes where required
• Develop and review outcome-focused care plans tailored to individual family needs
• Work collaboratively with Occupational Therapists, health professionals, schools, and partner agencies
• Carry out direct work with children and families to promote safeguarding and positive outcomes
• Attend multi-agency meetings, reviews, and court proceedings where necessary
• Support families with access to short breaks, specialist equipment, and community resources
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case recordings in line with statutory requirements

Requirements

• Social Work England registration
• Minimum of 2 years’ post-qualified experience within Children’s Services
• Experience working within a Children with Disabilities team is highly desirable
• Strong knowledge of safeguarding legislation and statutory frameworks
• Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary setting
• Full UK driving licence preferred

Why Work With Us?

• Up to £39.04 per hour
• Hybrid working with only 2–3 office days weekly
• Supportive and experienced management team
• Flexible working arrangements
• Access to a wide variety of locum opportunities across the UK
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your assignment
• Referral bonus for successful recommendations
• Opportunity to work in a rewarding specialist service making a genuine difference

For more information or to apply, please contact:

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

Bexley Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join their Referral & Assessment Team. This is a frontline role focused on responding to referrals, assessing risk, and ensuring children and families receive timely and effective support through high-quality statutory interventions.

You will work within a fast-paced service, undertaking assessments and safeguarding work to promote positive outcomes for children and young people.

In this role, you will:

• Undertake Child and Family Assessments
• Complete Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries
• Manage a varied caseload within a referral and assessment setting
• Assess risk and develop outcome-focused care plans
• Lead and participate in multi-agency meetings and strategy discussions
• Work directly with children and families to promote positive change
• 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 Referral & Assessment or Duty teams
• Confidence managing safeguarding 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 – Referral & 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).

Hammersmith & Fulham | Locum | £37.52 per hour | Hybrid Working

Hammersmith & Fulham Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join their Safeguarding Team. This is a frontline role focused on protecting children, managing risk, and supporting families through effective statutory interventions and relationship-based practice.

You will work within a supportive safeguarding service, delivering high-quality assessments and care planning to ensure positive outcomes for children and young people.

In this role, you will:

• Manage a caseload of Child in Need and Child Protection cases
• Undertake Section 17 and Section 47 assessments
• Develop and review safeguarding and care plans
• Lead and participate in multi-agency meetings and conferences
• Work directly with children and families to promote positive change
• Prepare high-quality reports and maintain accurate case recordings
• Contribute to permanency planning where required

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 safeguarding teams (CIN/CP)
• 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 – Safeguarding 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).

Senior Practitioner – Family Support & Safeguarding

Lewisham Council | £39.04 per hour | Hybrid Working

£300 REFERRAL BONUS AVAILABLE

Refer a Qualified Social Worker and receive £300 if your referral is successfully placed!

Key Highlights

• Senior Practitioner opportunity within a well-established Family Support & Safeguarding Service
• Excellent pay rate of £39.04 per hour
• Supportive management structure with strong team culture
• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements available
• Opportunity to mentor and support less experienced social workers
• Long-term contracts available with potential for extension
• 🔥 £300 Referral Bonus Scheme Available 🔥

Are you an experienced and passionate Social Worker looking to take the next step in your career? We are currently recruiting for a Senior Practitioner to join the Family Support & Safeguarding Service at Lewisham Council. This is an excellent opportunity to join a forward-thinking local authority committed to delivering outstanding services for children and families while supporting staff development and wellbeing.

This role is ideal for an experienced practitioner who thrives in fast-paced safeguarding environments and is confident managing complex Child Protection, Court, and Child in Need work. You will play a key role in supporting team performance, mentoring social workers, and ensuring positive outcomes for vulnerable children and families.

About the Authority

Lewisham Council has built a strong reputation for its child-centred practice model and commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people. The authority promotes a supportive working culture, manageable caseloads where possible, and continuous professional development opportunities for staff at all levels.

You will be joining a collaborative and experienced service where practitioners are valued, supported, and encouraged to progress professionally.

Key Responsibilities

• Managing a complex caseload within Family Support & Safeguarding
• Completing Child Protection, Child in Need, and Court work assessments
• Undertaking statutory visits and ensuring plans are progressed effectively
• Chairing professional meetings and contributing to strategy discussions
• Supporting and mentoring less experienced social workers and ASYE staff
• Producing high-quality assessments, reports, and care planning documentation
• Working in partnership with multi-agency professionals to safeguard children
• Ensuring all practice is compliant with current legislation and safeguarding procedures

Candidate Requirements

• Social Work England registration
• Degree in Social Work or equivalent qualification
• Significant post-qualified experience within Children’s Services
• Strong safeguarding, court work, and assessment experience
• Previous Senior Practitioner or advanced practitioner experience preferred
• Ability to work confidently within fast-paced statutory settings
• Excellent communication, analytical, and organisational skills

Why Work With Us?

• Competitive rate of £39.04 per hour
• Hybrid working flexibility
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your placement
• Access to a wide range of social work opportunities across the UK
• Fast and efficient onboarding process
• Ongoing compliance and payroll support
• Opportunity to work within a highly regarded London local authority

REFER A FRIEND – EARN £300 

Know an experienced Social Worker looking for their next role?
Refer them to us and receive a £300 referral bonus once they are successfully placed!

Contact

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

Herefordshire Council are recruiting a Team Manager into their Assessment and Support Service. This is an exciting leadership opportunity within a restorative and relationship-based authority focused on improving outcomes for children and families.

Our Assessment and Support service operates across three locality offices: South Locality (Ross-on-Wye), North Locality (Leominster), and Central Locality (Hereford). Each team includes a Team Manager, Senior Practitioner, Social Workers, and Family Support Workers, creating a collaborative and supportive environment.

Salary and incentives

• Salary up to £60,915
• £4,000 retention bonus
• £10,000 relocation package (subject to eligibility)
• £10,000 welcome bonus (paid in two increments)
• Hybrid working arrangements

Key responsibilities

Leadership and supervision

• Lead and manage a team of Social Workers and Family Support Workers
• Provide reflective supervision, oversight, and performance management
• Ensure workloads are effectively allocated and managed
• Support staff development and promote high standards of practice

Practice oversight

• Oversee Child and Family Assessments, safeguarding interventions, and care planning
• Ensure timely Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries
• Maintain strong oversight through audits, supervision, and quality assurance activity
• Chair strategy discussions, planning meetings, and complex case reviews

Safeguarding and outcomes

• Drive timely interventions and child-centred planning
• Promote strong multi-agency working with partner agencies
• Ensure statutory requirements and performance indicators are met
• Support positive outcomes for children and families through effective decision-making

Requirements

• Social Work England registration
• Social Work qualification
• Current or recent Team Manager experience within UK Children’s Services
• Strong background in safeguarding and assessment services
• UK local authority experience
• Full UK driving licence

What makes a strong applicant

• Strong management oversight and decision-making skills
• Experience improving performance and outcomes within frontline services
• Ability to support, challenge, and develop practitioners
• Confidence working within an improvement-focused authority

Apply or Refer Someone Now

If you’re a proven Team Manager and can start quickly (or have a clear notice period), get in touch today. We offer up to £500 for a Manager referral if you know someone.

Josh Da Costa
jdacosta@sheldon-phillips.com
07513 834554 | 01635 226350

Croydon Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join their Safeguarding Team. This is a frontline role focused on protecting children, managing risk, and supporting families through effective statutory interventions and relationship-based practice.

You will work within a supportive safeguarding service, delivering high-quality assessments and care planning to ensure positive outcomes for children and young people.

In this role, you will:

• Manage a caseload of Child in Need and Child Protection cases
• Undertake Section 17 and Section 47 assessments
• Develop and review safeguarding and care plans
• Lead and participate in multi-agency meetings and conferences
• Work directly with children and families to promote positive change
• Prepare high-quality reports and maintain accurate case recordings
• Contribute to permanency planning where required

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 safeguarding teams (CIN/CP)
• 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 – Safeguarding role in Croydon, 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).

Redbridge Council is seeking an experienced Senior Social Worker to join their Safeguarding Team. This is a frontline role focused on protecting children, managing complex safeguarding concerns, and supporting families through effective statutory interventions.

You will manage a complex caseload while supporting less experienced colleagues and contributing to strong, relationship-based practice that delivers positive outcomes for children and families.

In this role, you will:

• Manage a complex caseload of Child in Need and Child Protection cases
• Undertake Section 47 enquiries and safeguarding assessments
• Develop and review outcome-focused care plans
• Lead and participate in strategy discussions, conferences, and core group meetings
• Work closely with multi-agency partners to safeguard children
• 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 safeguarding teams (CIN/CP)
• Confidence managing complex and high-risk cases
• Ability to support and mentor 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 – Safeguarding 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).

Lambeth Council is seeking an experienced Senior Social Worker to join their Safeguarding Team. This is a frontline role focused on protecting children, managing complex risk, and supporting families through effective statutory interventions and relationship-based practice.

You will manage a complex caseload while supporting less experienced colleagues and contributing to positive outcomes for children and families across the borough.

In this role, you will:

• Manage a complex caseload of Child in Need and Child Protection cases
• Undertake Section 47 enquiries and safeguarding assessments
• Develop and review outcome-focused care plans
• Lead and participate in strategy discussions, conferences, and core group meetings
• Work closely with multi-agency partners to safeguard children
• 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 safeguarding teams (CIN/CP)
• Confidence managing complex and high-risk cases
• Ability to support and mentor 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 – Safeguarding 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).

Social Worker – Child Protection Team

Pay Rate: Up to £42 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 with a strong focus on relationship-based practice and multi-agency collaboration.

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 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.
• 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 mix of countryside beauty and vibrant town living:

• Home to the stunning Cotswolds, perfect for outdoor activities and scenic surroundings.
• Popular towns such as Cheltenham and Gloucester offer fantastic shopping, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
• Excellent transport links to Bristol, Birmingham, Oxford, and London.
• More affordable housing compared to many South West locations.
• A supportive local authority committed to staff wellbeing, development, and improving outcomes for children.
• It’s a fantastic place to grow 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

Social Worker – Children and Families Team

Pay Rate: £42 per hour
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

Gloucestershire County Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join its Children and Families Team.
You will work with children and families across a varied caseload, providing high-quality assessments, safeguarding interventions, and long-term planning to improve outcomes.

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

Key Responsibilities

• Complete assessments under the Children Act, including Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries.
• Manage a mixed caseload of CIN, CP, and some court work.
• Develop and implement child-centred care and safety plans.
• Work collaboratively with partner agencies including schools, health, 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 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 and vibrant town life:

• Home to the beautiful Cotswolds, ideal for outdoor living and scenic surroundings.
• Popular towns such as Cheltenham and Gloucester provide excellent shopping, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
• Strong transport links to Bristol, Birmingham, Oxford, and London.
• More affordable housing compared to many areas in the South West.
• 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

£42 per hour | Kings Hill Office | Hybrid Working Opportunity

• Excellent pay rate of £42 per hour
• Join a busy and rewarding Safeguarding Service (CSWT)
• Based at the Kings Hill office
• Work within a supportive and experienced management structure
• Opportunity to make a real impact in safeguarding children and families

We are currently recruiting for an experienced Senior Social Worker to join the Safeguarding Service (CSWT) at Kent County Council. This is a fantastic opportunity for a strong frontline practitioner looking to work within a fast-paced service focused on protecting children and supporting families through meaningful intervention and relationship-based practice.

The successful candidate will manage complex child protection, child in need, and court work cases, ensuring children are safeguarded and supported to achieve positive long-term outcomes.

About the Local Authority

Kent County Council is recognised nationally for its continued investment in Children’s Services and commitment to delivering high-quality support to children and families. The authority promotes a collaborative and supportive working culture, with experienced leadership teams, strong multi-agency partnerships, and ongoing opportunities for professional development.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a stable and well-established safeguarding service where your experience and practice will be highly valued.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a complex caseload involving Child Protection, Child in Need, and court work
• Complete assessments, care planning, and safeguarding interventions
• Undertake statutory visits and maintain accurate case recordings
• Prepare reports for conferences, reviews, and court proceedings
• Work closely with families and partner agencies to reduce risk and improve outcomes
• Participate in strategy discussions, core groups, and multi-agency meetings
• Ensure all work is completed in line with statutory guidance and timescales
• Support less experienced colleagues where appropriate

Candidate Requirements

• Social Work England registration
• Degree in Social Work or equivalent qualification
• Significant post-qualified experience within frontline Children’s Services
• Strong safeguarding and court work experience
• Ability to manage complex and high-risk caseloads
• Excellent assessment and analytical skills
• Confident multi-agency working and communication skills

Why Work With Us?

• Competitive rate of £42 per hour
• Hybrid working opportunities available
• Kings Hill office base
• Supportive team environment and experienced management
• Stable ongoing contract
• Opportunity to work within a highly regarded safeguarding service
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your placement
• Referral bonus available

For more information or to apply, please contact:

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

Social Worker – Children in Need Team

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

About the Role

Derbyshire County Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join its Children in Need Team.
You will work with children and families requiring support and intervention to improve outcomes and reduce risk, ensuring children remain safe and supported within their family networks wherever possible.

This role involves managing a varied caseload and working closely with multi-agency partners to deliver effective plans and interventions.

Key Responsibilities

• Complete Child and Family Assessments under the Children Act.
• Manage a caseload of Child in Need and Child Protection cases.
• Develop and implement effective child-centred support plans.
• Work collaboratively with schools, health services, and partner agencies.
• Undertake direct work with children and families.
• Prepare high-quality reports for conferences and reviews.
• 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, ideal for outdoor activities and scenic living.
• Affordable housing and lower cost of living compared to many UK regions.
• Friendly communities with excellent schools and local amenities.
• Convenient access to Derby, Nottingham, Sheffield, and Manchester.
• A supportive authority focused on staff wellbeing, development, and improving outcomes for children.
• It’s a great place to build both your career and your lifestyle.

Interested?

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

For more information, call:
07561 805654

£42 per hour | Kings Hill Office | Hybrid Working | 2–3 Days in the Office

• Outstanding pay rate of £42 per hour
• Work within a dedicated Children in Care Team
• Hybrid working with only 2–3 office days per week
• Based at the Kings Hill office
• Support children and young people in long-term care arrangements

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Senior Social Worker to join the Children in Care Team at Kent County Council. This role offers the chance to work with children and young people in care, ensuring they receive consistent support, stability, and positive long-term outcomes.

You will work closely with children, foster carers, families, and partner agencies to deliver high-quality care planning and safeguarding interventions. This is an ideal opportunity for a skilled practitioner who is passionate about relationship-based practice and improving outcomes for looked after children.

About the Local Authority

Kent County Council is one of the largest and most respected local authorities in the country, committed to delivering excellent services for children and families. The authority continues to invest heavily in frontline services, offering supportive management, strong team structures, and opportunities for professional growth and development.

You will be joining a collaborative and experienced service focused on achieving permanence, stability, and positive futures for children in care.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of children and young people within the Children in Care service
• Undertake statutory visits, assessments, and care planning responsibilities
• Build strong relationships with children, carers, and families
• Ensure care plans are progressed effectively to achieve permanence and stability
• Attend reviews, strategy meetings, and court proceedings where required
• Work alongside foster carers, education providers, health professionals, and partner agencies
• Safeguard children and promote their welfare at all times
• Maintain accurate case recordings and reports in line with statutory guidance

Candidate Requirements

• Social Work England registration
• Degree in Social Work or equivalent qualification
• Significant post-qualified experience within Children’s Services
• Experience working within Children in Care or Looked After Children teams
• Strong safeguarding and care planning knowledge
• Ability to manage complex caseloads effectively
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills

Why Work With Us?

• Competitive pay rate of £42 per hour
• Hybrid working flexibility
• Only 2–3 days per week in the office
• Kings Hill office base
• Supportive management and team culture
• Stable ongoing contract opportunity
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your placement
• Referral bonus scheme available

For more information or to apply, please contact:

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

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

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

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

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

About the Local Authority

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

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

Key Responsibilities

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

Candidate Requirements

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

Why Work With Us?

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

For more information or to apply, please contact:

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

Camden Council is seeking an experienced Senior Social Worker to join their Looked After Children Team. This is a key role supporting children and young people in care, ensuring they receive high-quality care planning, stability, and positive long-term outcomes.

You will manage complex looked after children cases while supporting less experienced colleagues and contributing to strong, relationship-based practice across the service.

In this role, you will:

• Manage a complex caseload of Looked After Children cases
• Undertake statutory visits and care planning responsibilities
• Complete pathway planning and permanency planning
• Work closely with foster carers, families, schools, and partner agencies
• Prepare reports for reviews, court proceedings, and planning meetings
• Support and mentor less experienced Social Workers
• Promote positive outcomes for children and young people in care

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 Looked After Children services
• Confidence managing complex and long-term cases
• Ability to support and mentor 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 – 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).

£39.04 per hour | Hybrid Working | 3 Days in the Office

• Excellent hourly rate of £39.04
• Work within a specialist 16+ Young People’s Service
• Hybrid working model with 3 office days per week
• Opportunity to support vulnerable adolescents and care leavers
• Join a forward-thinking and supportive local authority

Are you an experienced Social Worker looking to make a lasting impact within a dedicated 16+ Young People’s Service? We are currently recruiting for an experienced Senior Social Worker to join Croydon Council, supporting adolescents and young people as they transition toward independence and adulthood.

This is an excellent opportunity for a confident practitioner who thrives when working with complex adolescents, contextual safeguarding, exploitation risks, and transition planning. You will play a vital role in ensuring young people receive effective support, stability, and positive outcomes during a critical stage of their lives.

About the Local Authority

Croydon Council is continuing to invest in its children’s services and frontline teams, placing a strong emphasis on relationship-based practice, manageable caseloads, and continuous professional development. The service is committed to improving outcomes for young people through collaborative working and strong multi-agency partnerships.

You will be joining a passionate and supportive team environment where your experience, ideas, and leadership will be valued.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of young people aged 16+ with varying levels of complexity
• Complete assessments, pathway plans, risk assessments, and statutory visits
• Support young people transitioning to independence and adulthood
• Work closely with housing, education, health, youth justice, and partner agencies
• Safeguard vulnerable adolescents at risk of exploitation, homelessness, or offending
• Attend strategy meetings, reviews, and court proceedings where required
• Provide high-quality recording and ensure compliance with statutory requirements
• Support and mentor less experienced staff where appropriate

Candidate Requirements

• Social Work England registration
• Degree in Social Work or equivalent qualification
• Significant post-qualified experience within Children’s Services
• Experience working with adolescents, care leavers, or 16+ services
• Strong safeguarding and risk assessment experience
• Ability to manage complex caseloads effectively
• Excellent communication and multi-agency working skills

Why Work With Us?

• Competitive pay rate of £39.04 per hour
• Hybrid working flexibility
• Requirement of 3 days per week in the office
• Supportive management structure
• Opportunity to work within a specialist adolescent service
• Ongoing contracts with potential for extension
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your placement
• Referral bonus available for successful recommendations

For more information or to apply, please contact:

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

Social Worker – Children in Care Team

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

About the Role

Bedford Borough Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join its Children in Care Team.
You will work with looked after children and young people, ensuring they receive high-quality care, stability, and support to achieve positive long-term outcomes.

This role involves working closely with foster carers, residential providers, and multi-agency partners to deliver effective care planning and secure permanence for children.

Key Responsibilities

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

Practice Model Used by Bedford

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

• Building strong, trusting relationships with children and families
• Collaborative and transparent working
• Clear and structured risk assessment
• Effective safety planning
• Reflective supervision and continuous professional development
• The model supports consistent, child-centred practice and positive outcomes.

Interested?

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

For more information, call:
07561 805654

Social Worker – Safeguarding Team

Pay Rate: £42 per hour
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

Bracknell Forest Borough 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, delivering high-quality assessments and interventions to ensure children are protected and supported effectively.

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

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 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.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records.

Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with Social Work England registration
• Minimum 3 years’ statutory children’s social work experience
• Experience working within safeguarding teams (CIN/CP)
• Strong assessment, analytical, and report writing skills
• Ability to live locally or commute to Bracknell for office-based working requirements

Practice Model Used by Bracknell Forest

Bracknell Forest operates a Strengths-Based Practice Model, underpinned by Systemic Practice principles.
This approach focuses on:

• Building strong, meaningful relationships with families
• Understanding family dynamics and wider systems
• Collaborative and transparent working
• Clear risk assessment and safety planning
• Reflective supervision and continuous professional development
• The model supports high-quality, relationship-based social work practice.

Interested?

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

For more information, call:
📞 07561 805654

Social Worker – Children’s and Families First Team

Pay Rate: £38 per hour
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join its Children’s and Families First Team.
This role focuses on early intervention and prevention, working with children and families to provide support at the earliest opportunity and reduce escalation into statutory services.

You will work closely with families and partner agencies to deliver timely, strengths-based interventions that improve outcomes and promote stability.

Key Responsibilities

• Complete Child and Family Assessments.
• Work with families at the early help and Child in Need level.
• Develop and implement support plans to prevent escalation.
• Work collaboratively with schools, health services, and community organisations.
• Undertake direct work with children and families.
• Provide timely and accurate case recording.
• Contribute to multi-agency meetings and planning processes.

Practice Model Used by BCP

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole operate a Strengths-Based, Relationship-Focused Practice Model, supported by Signs of Safety.
This approach focuses on:

• Building strong, trusting relationships with families
• Early intervention and preventative work
• Collaborative and transparent practice
• Clear risk identification and safety planning
• Reflective supervision and continuous development
• The model supports effective early help and consistent outcomes for children and families.

Interested?

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

For more information, call:
07561 805654

Social Worker – Children in Care Team

Pay Rate: £42 per hour
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

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

This role involves working closely with foster carers, residential providers, and multi-agency partners to deliver effective care planning and secure permanence for children.

Key Responsibilities

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

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 children and 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 and vibrant town life:

• Home to the Cotswolds, known for its scenic landscapes and outdoor lifestyle.
• Popular towns such as Cheltenham and Gloucester offer shopping, culture, and entertainment.
• Strong transport links to Bristol, Birmingham, Oxford, and London.
• More affordable housing compared to many South West areas.
• A supportive local authority focused on staff wellbeing, development, and improving outcomes for children.
• It’s a great 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

Social Worker – Children in Care Team

Pay Rate: £35 per hour
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

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

This role involves working closely with foster carers, residential providers, and multi-agency partners to deliver effective care planning and secure permanence for children.

Key Responsibilities

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

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, families, and carers
• 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, ideal for outdoor living.
• Affordable housing and lower cost of living compared to many UK regions.
• Friendly communities with excellent schools and local amenities.
• Easy access to Derby, Nottingham, Sheffield, and Manchester.
• A supportive local authority focused on staff development, wellbeing, and improving outcomes for children.
• It’s a great place to build both your career and your lifestyle.

Interested?

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

For more information, call:
07561 805654

Social Worker – Looked After Children

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

About the Role

Bedford Borough 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 close collaboration with foster carers, residential providers, and partner agencies to secure permanence and promote wellbeing.

Key Responsibilities

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

Practice Model Used by Bedford

Bedford Borough Council operates a Strengths-Based Practice Model, supported by Signs of Safety.
This approach focuses on:

• Building strong, trusting relationships with children and families
• Collaborative and transparent working
• Clear and structured risk assessment
• Effective safety planning
• Reflective supervision and continuous professional development
• The model supports consistent, child-centred practice across services.

Why Bedford Is a Great Place to Live and Work

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

• More affordable housing compared to many nearby commuter towns.
• Excellent transport links, with direct rail services to London in under an hour.
• A vibrant and diverse community with strong local amenities.
• Access to green spaces including the Embankment Bedford along the River Great Ouse.
• Good schools and family-friendly neighbourhoods.
• A supportive local authority focused on staff development and improving outcomes for children.
• It’s a great place to grow 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

We are working with Trafford Council to recruit an experienced Advanced Practitioner to join their Families First (Child in Need) service. This is a fantastic opportunity to step into a senior, practice-focused role within a well-structured and supportive local authority that has invested in strengthening its Child in Need services.

The Families First model has been developed to enhance the quality of assessments and planning for children and families, ensuring consistent and relationship-based practice across the borough.

Role Overview

As an Advanced Practitioner, you will work within the Child in Need service on a locality basis, supporting children and families who require statutory intervention and assessment. You will hold a varied caseload, including Child in Need and safeguarding work, while also playing a key role in supporting and developing less experienced staff.

This is a hands-on role combining high-quality direct practice with mentoring, coaching, and oversight responsibilities to drive best practice across the team.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake Child and Family Assessments and Section 47 enquiries
• Manage a caseload of Child in Need and safeguarding cases
• Develop and progress Child in Need plans, ensuring timely and outcome-focused interventions
• Build strong, relational partnerships with families to support sustainable change
• Support safe step-down of plans in line with family progress and timescales
• Participate in duty on a rota basis
• Provide coaching, mentoring, and supervision to social workers and students
• Support team development and promote high standards of practice
• Work collaboratively with partner agencies to ensure coordinated support

Benefits

• Competitive rate of £37 per hour
• Well-structured and supportive Child in Need service
• Manageable caseloads to enable quality practice
• Opportunity to step into a leadership-focused role
• Strong emphasis on relationship-based and strengths-led practice
• Flexible working arrangements available
• Opportunity to influence practice and support team development

Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with Social Work England registration
• Significant post-qualified experience within children’s services
• Strong experience of Child in Need, safeguarding, and Section 47 work
• Ability to mentor, coach, and support other practitioners
• Confident in assessment, planning, and risk management
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• Flexible and proactive approach to practice

Interested?

If you’re an experienced social worker ready to step into an Advanced Practitioner role where you can influence practice and support others, this is a great opportunity to consider.

For more information or to apply, please contact:

Emily Cooper - 07745200325 | ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

We are working with The Fostering Company, part of the Five Rivers Child Care Group, to recruit a Supervising Social Worker to join their established team in Newcastle. This is an excellent opportunity to join a highly regarded, therapeutically led fostering agency that operates as a social enterprise, reinvesting into services to improve outcomes for children and young people.

With a ‘Good’ Ofsted rating and a strong reputation across the Northeast, this organisation offers a supportive, flexible working environment alongside a genuine commitment to staff development and progression.

Role Overview

As a Supervising Social Worker, you will support foster carers across the Northeast, ensuring they are equipped to provide safe, stable, and nurturing homes for children and young people. You will hold a realistic and manageable caseload, allowing you to focus on delivering high-quality supervision and meaningful support.

You will work within a trauma-informed and therapeutic practice model, supported by access to clinical expertise and structured supervision. The role offers flexibility in how you manage your time, alongside strong organisational support.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and supervise a caseload of foster carers across the region
• Provide regular supervision, guidance, and support to carers
• Complete Form F Assessments where required
• Promote and embed trauma-informed and therapeutic approaches
• Participate in recruitment and assessment of foster carers
• Support children and young people through participation and engagement activities
• Contribute to the out-of-hours support rota
• Maintain accurate records using the CHARMS system
• Work collaboratively with internal clinical, education, and residential services

Benefits

• Salary between £33,755 – £39,547 DOE
• £4,500 annual car allowance
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Flexible and supportive working environment
• Manageable caseloads to promote quality practice
• Ongoing training and development through a dedicated Learning & Development team
• Access to clinical supervision from a qualified psychologist
• Gold Investors in People accredited organisation
• Simply Health Medical Cash Back Scheme
• Blue Light Card
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Enhanced pension scheme (4% employer contribution)
• Refer-a-friend bonus scheme
• Long service and recognition awards
• Clear opportunities for internal progression

Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with relevant Social Work qualification
• Experience within fostering or children’s services preferred
• Strong understanding of safeguarding and child-centred practice
• Ability to build and maintain effective professional relationships
• Good written and IT skills
• Full UK driving licence
• Right to work in the UK

Interested?

If you’re looking to join a therapeutic, values-led fostering agency where you can genuinely make a difference and develop your career, this is a great opportunity to consider.

For more information or to apply, please contact:

Emily Cooper - 07745200325 | ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

We are working with Foster Careline, a well-established and values-driven fostering agency, to recruit a Supervising Social Worker to join their therapeutic and forward-thinking team. This is an excellent opportunity to join a small, highly experienced service that places strong emphasis on trauma-informed practice and achieving the best outcomes for children and young people.

Foster Careline operates as a social enterprise and has been rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted, reflecting the quality of support provided to foster carers and the positive impact on children’s lives. Their collaborative, supportive culture and commitment to professional development make this a standout opportunity within the fostering sector.

Role Overview

As a Supervising Social Worker, you will hold a manageable caseload of foster carers, providing high-quality supervision, guidance, and support. The role is centred on building strong relationships with fostering families while ensuring children receive safe, stable, and nurturing care.

You will work within a therapeutic framework, supported by a clinical team, and contribute to the ongoing development of carers through training, supervision, and participation activities.

This is a flexible role, with a hybrid approach to working. You will be required in the Ellesmere Port office for one duty day per week and monthly team meetings, with the remainder of your time spent working from home and visiting carers.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage, support, and supervise a caseload of foster carers
• Undertake regular supervision visits and provide ongoing guidance and support
• Complete Form F Assessments where required
• Promote and embed trauma-informed and therapeutic practice
• Participate in foster carer recruitment and assessment processes
• Support and contribute to participation events for children and carers
• Work collaboratively with the wider professional network and internal clinical team
• Contribute to the out-of-hours support rota for foster carers
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records using the CHARMS system

Benefits

• Competitive salary of £33,755 – £39,547 DOE
• £4,500 annual car allowance
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• Strong focus on manageable caseloads and quality of support
• Ongoing training and development through a dedicated Learning & Development team
• Gold Investors in People accredited organisation
• Simply Health Medical Cash Back Scheme
• Blue Light Card
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Enhanced pension scheme (4% employer contribution)
• Refer-a-friend bonus scheme
• Long service and recognition awards

Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with relevant Social Work qualification
• Experience within fostering or children’s services
• Strong understanding of safeguarding and child development
• Ability to build effective relationships with foster carers and professionals
• Good written and IT skills
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle
• Right to work in the UK

Interested?

If you’re looking to join a supportive, therapeutic fostering agency where your development is genuinely prioritised, this could be the ideal next step in your career.

For more information or to apply, please contact:

Emily Cooper - 07745200325 | ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

Sheldon Phillips are working in partnership with a local authority to recruit an experienced Social Worker to join their Family Safeguarding Service based at Fawcett House in Trumpington. This is a hybrid role offering a mix of office-based and remote working, with a strong focus on child protection, children in need, and looked after children work within a multi-disciplinary safeguarding model.

Role Overview

This is a dynamic and fast-paced safeguarding role where you will hold a varied caseload of CIN, CP, and CIC cases, including some cases within PLO and care proceedings. You will be responsible for ensuring robust assessments, effective planning, and timely interventions to safeguard children and promote positive outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake statutory visits for CIN, CP, and CIC cases
• Chair CIN meetings and Core Group meetings
• Hold and manage a complex caseload including CIN, CP, CIC, PLO, and S31 Care Proceedings cases
• Complete high-quality court reports, parenting assessments, and risk assessments
• Attend court hearings with support from Senior Practitioners or Team Managers
• Participate in the duty rota, responding to urgent safeguarding concerns
• Attend Initial Child Protection Conferences (ICPC) and Review Child Protection Conferences (RCPC)
• Complete detailed conference reports and contribute to multi-agency planning
• Assess and manage risk effectively, ensuring safeguarding thresholds are met
• Work collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary Family Safeguarding model

Benefits

• Competitive rate of £39 per hour (umbrella, capped)
• Hybrid working – 2/3 days in the office at Fawcett House, Trumpington
• Strong multi-disciplinary safeguarding model with embedded partner agencies
• Supportive management structure with Senior Practitioners and Team Managers
• Opportunity to work across a diverse and complex safeguarding caseload
• Experience across court work, child protection, and looked after children
• Stable and well-structured team environment

Requirements

• Social Work qualification (Degree/DipSW/CQSW)
• Registration with Social Work England
• Significant post-qualified experience within Children’s Services
• Experience across CIN, CP, and CIC work
• Confidence in court work, assessments, and risk management
• Strong understanding of safeguarding legislation and frameworks
• Ability to work effectively within a multi-agency environment
• Excellent communication, organisation, and analytical skills

Interested?

If you are an experienced Children’s Social Worker looking for your next locum opportunity within a supportive Family Safeguarding team, we would love to hear from you.

Please contact Emily Cooper on 07745 200325 or email ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com for more information or to apply.

Sheldon Phillips are working in partnership with Northampton Children’s Trust to recruit an experienced Children in Care Social Worker to join their established service. This is a fantastic opportunity to work within a supportive and child-focused team, ensuring looked after children receive consistent care planning, stability, and positive long-term outcomes.

Role Overview

As a Children in Care Social Worker, you will manage a caseload of looked after children, working to ensure high-quality care planning and permanence outcomes are achieved. You will build strong, trusting relationships with children and young people, ensuring their voice is central to all plans and decisions made about their future.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of children in care, including looked after children and care leavers where appropriate
• Undertake statutory visits in line with timescales and legislation
• Develop, implement, and review care plans with a focus on permanence and stability
• Support children through key transitions including placement moves and pathway planning
• Prepare high-quality reports for reviews and court proceedings where required
• Work closely with foster carers, residential providers, and adopters
• Engage effectively with children and young people to ensure their views are heard and acted upon
• Collaborate with partner agencies including education, health, and early help services
• Maintain accurate and timely case recording in line with local authority standards

Benefits

• Competitive rate of £36 per hour
• Stable and supportive Children in Care service
• Opportunity to work within a well-structured local authority team
• Hybrid working arrangements available where appropriate
• Manageable caseloads with a focus on quality practice
• Strong management support and regular supervision
• Opportunity to develop and maintain court and permanence planning experience

Requirements

• Social Work qualification (Degree/DipSW/CQSW)
• Registered with Social Work England
• Post-qualified experience within Children’s Services
• Experience working within Children in Care or Looked After Children teams
• Strong understanding of the Children Act 1989 and care planning frameworks
• Experience of multi-agency working and child-focused practice
• Confident in report writing and, where applicable, court work
• Commitment to delivering positive outcomes for children and young people

Interested?

If you are an experienced Children’s Social Worker looking for your next locum opportunity, we would love to hear from you.

Please contact Emily Cooper on 07745 200325 or email ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com for more information or to apply.

Gloucestershire County Council are looking to recruit Social Workers and Senior Social Workers to join their well-established Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) based in Waterwells, Quedgeley. This is an excellent opportunity to join a supportive Front Door service where decision-making, partnership working, and early safeguarding interventions are at the heart of practice.

You will be joining an authority with a strong values-led culture, focused on Accountability, Empowerment, Excellence, Integrity, and Respect, alongside a clear commitment to staff development and wellbeing.

As a MASH Social Worker, you will be working at the Front Door of Children’s Services, making timely and informed decisions to safeguard children and young people. You will screen referrals, assess risk, and work closely with partner agencies to ensure the right interventions are put in place at the earliest opportunity.

This is a fast-paced environment where strong analytical skills and confident decision-making are essential, supported by robust management oversight and a collaborative multi-agency setting.

• Triage and assess incoming referrals to Children’s Services
• Make timely, evidence-based decisions regarding thresholds and safeguarding concerns
• Undertake risk assessments and determine appropriate interventions
• Work in partnership with multi-agency professionals including police, health, and education
• Contribute to strategy discussions and safeguarding decision-making processes
• Ensure accurate and timely recording in line with statutory requirements
• Maintain a child-focused approach, ensuring the voice of the child is central
• Work within tight timescales to ensure prompt and effective responses

• Salary between £39,152 – £47,181 per annum (dependent on experience)
• £4,000 welcome payment*
• £2,000 retention payment*
• Up to £8,000 relocation package**
• Flexible and agile working arrangements
• 25.5 days annual leave rising to 30.5 days (plus option to purchase additional leave)
• Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
• Access to Employee Assistance Programme (24/7 support)
• Strong supervision and supportive team environment
• Access to a dedicated Social Work Academy and ongoing development opportunities
• Cycle to Work and Green Car schemes
• Employee discounts and staff networks

Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker (Degree/DipSW/CQSW)
• Registration with Social Work England
• Completion of ASYE (where applicable)
• Experience within frontline children’s services (MASH experience desirable)
• Strong understanding of safeguarding thresholds and Front Door processes
• Ability to make sound decisions within tight timescales
• Excellent communication and multi-agency working skills
• Enhanced DBS clearance (Adults & Children’s)

If you are a driven and resilient Social Worker looking to work in a fast-paced, supportive MASH environment, this is a fantastic opportunity to develop your career within a well-structured local authority.

For more information or to apply, please contact:
Emily Cooper - 07745 200325 | ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

Salford Council are seeking an experienced Social Worker to join their Safeguarding service on an agency basis. This is a fantastic opportunity to work within a well-structured and supportive team, focused on protecting children and achieving positive long-term outcomes through effective statutory intervention.

You will be joining a service committed to high-quality practice, manageable caseloads, and strong multi-agency collaboration, with a clear focus on safeguarding children at risk of harm.

As a Safeguarding Social Worker, you will work with children subject to Child Protection plans, Child in Need plans, and care proceedings where required. You will carry a varied caseload involving complex safeguarding concerns and will play a key role in risk assessment, care planning, and delivering interventions that promote stability and positive change.

This role requires confident decision-making, strong analytical skills, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced statutory environment.

• Manage a caseload of children subject to Child Protection and Child in Need plans
• Undertake comprehensive assessments, including Section 47 enquiries
• Develop and review care and protection plans to reduce risk and improve outcomes
• Prepare high-quality reports for conferences, reviews, and court proceedings
• Attend and contribute to multi-agency meetings and strategy discussions
• Work closely with partner agencies to ensure coordinated safeguarding interventions
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings in line with statutory requirements
• Ensure the child’s voice is central to all assessments and planning

• Competitive rate of £39 per hour
• Supportive and experienced management team
• Hybrid working opportunities
• Well-structured service with clear processes
• Opportunity to work within a collaborative and forward-thinking local authority

• Qualified Social Worker (Degree/DipSW/CQSW)
• Registration with Social Work England
• Significant experience within Children’s Safeguarding teams
• Strong knowledge of Child Protection processes and legislation
• Experience of court work and care proceedings
• Ability to manage complex caseloads effectively
• Excellent assessment, analytical, and communication skills
• Flexible and proactive approach to work

If you are an experienced Safeguarding Social Worker looking for your next agency opportunity in a supportive and well-run local authority, this could be the perfect role for you.

For more information or to apply, please contact:
Emily Cooper - 07745 200325 or ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

Wigan Council are seeking an experienced Social Worker to join their Family Safeguarding service on an agency basis. This is an excellent opportunity to work within a progressive and well-regarded model that focuses on keeping families together through targeted, multi-disciplinary interventions.

You will be part of a service that prioritises relationship-based practice, working closely with families to reduce risk and create sustainable change, while ensuring children remain safe.

Role Overview

As a Social Worker within the Family Safeguarding team, you will work with children subject to Child in Need and Child Protection plans, supporting families through structured interventions aimed at reducing risk and preventing escalation.

The service uses a strengths-based, collaborative approach, working alongside specialist professionals such as domestic abuse workers, substance misuse practitioners, and mental health specialists to deliver holistic support to families.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of children and families subject to CIN and CP plans
• Undertake comprehensive assessments, including Section 47 enquiries where required
• Develop and implement outcome-focused care plans
• Work closely with multi-disciplinary professionals to deliver coordinated interventions
• Build strong, purposeful relationships with families to promote positive change
• Prepare reports for conferences, reviews, and court where necessary
• Attend and contribute to multi-agency meetings and safeguarding processes
• Maintain accurate and timely case recording in line with statutory requirements
• Ensure the child’s voice remains central to all work

Benefits

• Competitive rate of £38 per hour
• Opportunity to work within a recognised Family Safeguarding model
• Supportive management and collaborative team environment
• Hybrid working opportunities
• Well-structured service with clear processes and manageable caseloads

Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker (Degree/DipSW/CQSW)
• Registration with Social Work England
• Experience within Children’s Safeguarding, CIN, and CP work
• Strong understanding of strengths-based and relationship-focused practice
• Experience working within multi-disciplinary teams (desirable)
• Ability to manage complex caseloads effectively
• Strong assessment, analytical, and communication skills
• Flexible and proactive approach

Interested?

If you are a Social Worker looking to work in a forward-thinking service that focuses on supporting families to make lasting change, this is a fantastic opportunity within Wigan Council.

For more information or to apply, please contact:
Emily Cooper - 07745 200325 | ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

Sheldon Phillips are currently working with Staffordshire County Council to recruit experienced Social Workers, Senior Social Workers and Advanced Practitioners for their Kinship Fostering Assessment Teams based in Stafford.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a well-established and supportive service completing Kinship, Connected Persons and Family & Friends Assessments for fostering families.

Role Overview

Position: Social Worker / Senior Practitioner
Team: Kinship Fostering Assessment Team 1 & 2
Location: Staffordshire Place One, Tipping Street, Stafford, ST16 2DH
Working Pattern: Hybrid working available
Hours: 37 hours per week

Pay Rates:

• Social Worker / Band 1 – £28.55 per hour
• Senior Social Worker / Band 2 – £30.57 per hour
• Advanced Practitioner / Assistant Team Manager – £33.30 per hour

Key Responsibilities

• Completing Kinship, Connected Persons and Family & Friends Assessments
• Undertaking fostering assessments in line with statutory requirements
• Producing clear, analytical and evidence-based assessment reports
• Working closely with children, families and partner agencies
• Attending meetings, supervision and fostering panels where required
• Managing assessments within agreed timescales and service expectations
• Contributing to positive permanency planning outcomes for children

Requirements

• Social Work England registration
• Social Work qualification
• Experience completing fostering, kinship or connected persons assessments
• Strong assessment and report writing skills
• Ability to work independently and manage competing priorities

Benefits

• Hybrid working with up to 2 office days per week
• Flexible working and compressed hours considered
• Access to training and regular supervision
• Equipment provided for mobile and home working
• Access to Vivup benefits platform with retail, gym and lifestyle discounts
• Office access available between 7am – 7pm if preferred

Interested?

For more information or to apply, please contact:

Emily Cooper - 07745200325 | ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

Looking for your next locum role in a fast-paced frontline team? Enfield Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join their Assessment Service, offering a strong pay rate and a flexible hybrid working model.

This is a great opportunity to work within a well-structured service where your assessments will have a direct and meaningful impact on safeguarding children and supporting families at the earliest stage.

About the Role

As part of the Assessment Team, you’ll be at the forefront of children’s services, carrying out timely interventions and ensuring children are protected and supported effectively.

Key Responsibilities:

• Complete Child and Family Assessments within statutory timescales
• Undertake Section 47 enquiries and risk assessments
• Manage a dynamic caseload in a fast-paced environment
• Work collaboratively with multi-agency partners
• Produce clear, analytical reports to inform decision-making
• Engage directly with children and families to assess needs and risks

About You

You’ll be a confident practitioner with strong frontline experience and the ability to make sound decisions under pressure.

Requirements:

• Qualified Social Worker with Social Work England registration
• Experience within an Assessment or Duty team
• Strong knowledge of safeguarding legislation and frameworks
• Ability to manage competing priorities effectively
• Excellent assessment and report-writing skills
• Confident working in a fast-paced environment

Why Join Enfield Council?

• Competitive rate of £37.52 per hour
• Hybrid working – 3 days per week in the office
• Supportive and experienced management team
• Opportunity to gain valuable frontline experience
• Stable service with clear processes and structure
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your placement

Interested?

If you’re ready to step into a rewarding locum role within a busy Assessment team, get in touch today.

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

Are you an experienced Social Worker looking to join a progressive and relationship-focused service? Lambeth Council is recruiting for their Family Safeguarding Team, offering an excellent pay rate and a structured hybrid working model.

This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a service that uses a strengths-based, multi-disciplinary approach to achieve lasting change for children and families.

About the Role

Working within the Family Safeguarding Service, you will support children and families through robust safeguarding interventions while working collaboratively with specialist practitioners.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage a caseload of children subject to Child in Need and Child Protection plans
• Undertake comprehensive assessments and develop outcome-focused plans
• Work closely with multi-disciplinary professionals (including domestic abuse, substance misuse, and mental health specialists)
• Carry out statutory visits and ensure compliance with safeguarding procedures
• Prepare high-quality reports for conferences, reviews, and court proceedings
• Build strong, effective relationships with families to promote positive change

About You

We’re looking for a skilled and confident Social Worker with experience in safeguarding and long-term work.

Requirements:

• Qualified Social Worker with Social Work England registration
• Experience within Family Safeguarding, Child Protection, or CIN teams
• Strong understanding of safeguarding frameworks and legislation
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multi-agency setting
• Excellent communication and analytical skills
• Ability to manage a complex caseload effectively

Why Join Lambeth Council?

• Excellent pay rate of £39.04 per hour
• Hybrid working model – 3 days per week in the office
• Innovative Family Safeguarding model with multi-disciplinary support
• Supportive management and team culture
• Opportunity to make a lasting difference to families
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your placement

Interested?

If you’re ready to take on a rewarding locum opportunity within a forward-thinking safeguarding service, get in touch today.

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

Lewisham Council

• £39.04 per hour competitive rate
• Senior frontline safeguarding role with leadership responsibilities
• Hybrid working model with strong team support
• Signs of Safety practice model embedded across the service
• Opportunity to influence practice and support developing social workers

Are you an experienced Senior Social Worker looking for your next challenge in a progressive safeguarding service? Lewisham Council is seeking a confident and skilled practitioner to join its Safeguarding Team, where you’ll take on complex cases while also supporting the development of less experienced staff.

This is a fantastic opportunity to step into a role that combines high-quality frontline practice with leadership, all within a borough that is committed to relationship-based work and strengths-led interventions.

About the Role

As a Senior Social Worker, you will work with children and families where there are significant safeguarding concerns, holding complex Child Protection and court cases while contributing to the wider team’s performance and development.

Working within Lewisham’s Signs of Safety practice model, you will focus on building meaningful relationships with families, creating clear safety plans, and ensuring sustainable outcomes for children.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a complex caseload including Child Protection, Child in Need, and PLO cases
• Lead Section 47 investigations and robust risk assessments
• Produce high-quality court reports, care plans, and assessments
• Provide mentoring and guidance to ASYE and junior social workers
• Support the Team Manager with case direction and practice standards
• Lead and contribute to strategy discussions, core groups, and conferences
• Ensure the child’s voice is central to all planning and intervention
• Work collaboratively with multi-agency partners to deliver effective safeguarding outcomes

What We’re Looking For

• Qualified Social Worker with Social Work England registration
• Strong experience within a Safeguarding / Child Protection Team
• Proven ability to manage complex cases and court work
• Experience supporting or mentoring other practitioners
• Excellent knowledge of Children Act 1989, PLO, and safeguarding frameworks
• Confident decision-maker with strong analytical and communication skills

Why Join Lewisham?

• £39.04 per hour competitive rate
• Hybrid working for better work-life balance
• Supportive leadership and regular reflective supervision
• Clear progression pathway and opportunities to step into management
• Work within a well-established Signs of Safety model
• Be part of a borough that genuinely values relationship-based practice

Contact

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

Are you an experienced Social Worker looking for a permanent opportunity within a supportive and forward-thinking local authority? Bracknell Forest Council is seeking passionate practitioners to join their Localities Service, offering an excellent salary package, a generous welcome payment, and strong career development opportunities.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a council that values relationship-based practice, manageable caseloads, and positive outcomes for children and families.

About the Role

As a Social Worker within the Localities Service, you will work with children and families across Child in Need, Child Protection, and care proceedings, delivering high-quality interventions that create lasting change.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage a varied caseload involving CIN, CP, and court work
• Undertake assessments and develop effective child-centred plans
• Complete statutory visits and maintain accurate case recordings
• Build strong relationships with children, families, and partner agencies
• Prepare high-quality reports for conferences and court proceedings
• Promote positive outcomes through timely and effective intervention

About You

We are looking for committed and resilient Social Workers who are passionate about safeguarding and improving outcomes for children.

Requirements:

• Qualified Social Worker with Social Work England registration
• Experience within frontline children’s services
• Strong knowledge of safeguarding legislation and statutory guidance
• Ability to manage complex cases effectively
• Excellent assessment, communication, and report-writing skills
• Commitment to relationship-based practice and positive change

Why Join Bracknell Forest Council?

• Salary of up to £53,000 per annum
• £7,000 welcome payment available
• Permanent, stable opportunity within a supportive service
• Manageable caseloads and strong management support
• Excellent learning and development opportunities
• Flexible and supportive working culture
• Opportunity to progress your career within a respected local authority

Interested?

If you’re looking for your next permanent opportunity within a well-supported Localities team, we’d love to hear from you.

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

Team Manager – Adults Reviews Team | Hammersmith & Fulham Council | £45 per hour (Locum) | Hybrid Working 

Hammersmith & Fulham Council is seeking an experienced Team Manager to join their Adults Reviews Team on a locum basis, offering a strong pay rate and a flexible hybrid working arrangement.

This is an excellent opportunity for a confident leader to manage a dedicated team within a well-regarded local authority, ensuring high-quality reviews and positive outcomes for adults receiving support services.

About the Role

As Team Manager within the Adults Reviews Team, you will provide leadership, oversight, and support to practitioners completing statutory reviews and reassessments across adult social care services.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and supervise a team of social care professionals within the Reviews Service
• Oversee the completion of Care Act reviews and reassessments
• Monitor performance, quality assurance, and statutory compliance
• Support staff development through regular supervision and guidance
• Manage complex cases and provide oversight on decision-making
• Work collaboratively with internal departments and partner agencies

About You

We’re looking for an experienced Team Manager with strong leadership skills and a solid background within Adult Social Care.

Requirements:

• Qualified Social Worker with Social Work England registration
• Previous management experience within Adult Social Care
• Strong understanding of the Care Act and adult safeguarding legislation
• Ability to lead teams within a fast-paced service environment
• Excellent organisational and communication skills
• Confident in performance management and quality assurance processes

Why Join Hammersmith & Fulham Council?

• Competitive pay rate of £45 per hour
• Hybrid working model – 2 days per week in the office
• Opportunity to lead within a supportive and collaborative service
• Stable locum opportunity within a respected London authority
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your assignment
• Chance to make a meaningful impact across Adult Social Care services

Interested?

If you’re an experienced Team Manager looking for your next locum opportunity, we’d love to hear from you.

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

Team Manager – Complex Care Team | Hammersmith & Fulham Council | £45 per hour (Locum) | Hybrid Working

Hammersmith & Fulham Council is looking for an experienced Team Manager to join their Complex Care Team on a locum basis, offering a competitive hourly rate and a flexible hybrid working model.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a strong leader to oversee a busy adult social care team supporting individuals with complex needs, ensuring high-quality practice and positive outcomes across the service.

About the Role

As Team Manager within the Complex Care Team, you will provide operational leadership and management oversight to practitioners working with adults requiring complex interventions and long-term support.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and supervise a team managing complex adult social care cases
• Oversee assessments, reviews, care planning, and safeguarding interventions
• Ensure compliance with the Care Act and statutory responsibilities
• Support practitioners with complex decision-making and risk management
• Monitor team performance, quality assurance, and service delivery
• Work collaboratively with health professionals and multi-agency partners

About You

We are looking for an experienced and motivated manager with a strong background in Adult Social Care and complex case management.

Requirements:

• Qualified Social Worker with Social Work England registration
• Previous Team Manager experience within Adult Social Care
• Strong knowledge of the Care Act, Mental Capacity Act, and safeguarding procedures
• Experience managing complex and high-risk cases
• Excellent leadership, organisational, and communication skills
• Ability to support and develop staff within a fast-paced environment

Why Join Hammersmith & Fulham Council?

• Competitive pay rate of £45 per hour
• Hybrid working model – 2 days per week in the office
• Supportive leadership structure and collaborative team culture
• Opportunity to lead within a respected London local authority
• Stable locum assignment with ongoing support
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your placement

Interested?

If you’re an experienced Team Manager looking for your next locum opportunity within a Complex Care service, get in touch today.

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

Barnet | Locum | £38.50 per hour | Hybrid Working

Barnet Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker or Senior Social Worker to join their Duty & Assessment Team. This is a fast-paced frontline role focused on responding to referrals, completing timely assessments, and ensuring children and families receive the right support at the earliest stage.

You will work within a dynamic service, managing a varied caseload and undertaking high-quality assessments to safeguard children and promote positive outcomes.

In this role, you will:

• Respond to referrals and undertake Child and Family Assessments
• Carry out Section 47 enquiries and risk assessments
• Manage a varied caseload within a duty and assessment setting
• Make timely decisions in line with statutory guidance and thresholds
• Work closely with multi-agency partners including police, health, and education
• Prepare high-quality reports and maintain accurate case recordings
• Support and mentor less experienced colleagues (Senior level)

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 Duty & Assessment or Front Door services
• Confidence managing risk and making timely decisions
• 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 / Senior Social Worker – Duty & Assessment 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).

Central Bedfordshire | Locum | £38+ per hour | Hybrid Working

Central Bedfordshire Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join their Safeguarding Team. This is a frontline role focused on protecting children, managing risk, and supporting families through effective statutory interventions.

You will work with children subject to Child in Need and Child Protection plans, delivering high-quality assessments and ensuring timely, outcome-focused care planning.

In this role, you will:

• Manage a caseload of Child in Need and Child Protection cases
• Undertake comprehensive assessments and risk analysis
• Develop and review CIN and CP plans
• Lead and participate in multi-agency safeguarding meetings
• Work directly with children and families to promote positive change
• Prepare high-quality reports and maintain accurate case recordings
• Contribute to permanency planning where required

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 safeguarding teams (CIN/CP)
• Confidence managing complex and high-risk cases
• Excellent assessment, analytical, and decision-making 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 – Safeguarding role in Central Bedfordshire, 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).

Herefordshire Council is seeking an experienced Senior Practitioner to join their Children with Disabilities Team. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of an improving local authority, contributing to a restorative and relationship-based model of practice that delivers positive outcomes for children and families.

Working across the child’s journey, you will support the team in delivering high-quality assessments, safeguarding interventions, and care planning, while also providing supervisory support to Social Workers.

In this role, you will:

• Support and supervise Social Workers within the Children with Disabilities team
• Manage a complex caseload including assessment, Child Protection, and court work
• Undertake and oversee short break assessments and care planning
• Promote a relationship-based and restorative approach to practice
• Work collaboratively with multi-agency partners to safeguard children
• Contribute to service improvement and practice development
• Ensure high-quality reports, assessments, and case recordings

What You’ll Need:

• Social Work England Registration
• Social Work Qualification (DipSW, CQSW, CSS or equivalent)
• At least 3 years’ post-qualified experience in statutory children’s social care
• Strong experience within Children with Disabilities services
• Experience supporting or supervising other social workers
• Excellent assessment, analytical, and report-writing skills

What You Can Expect:

• Competitive rate of £33.30 per hour
• 45p per mile business mileage
• Up to £150 per week accommodation allowance
• Full-time (37 hours per week)
• Initial 3-month contract with potential extension
• Opportunity to contribute to a service on an improvement journey

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 Practitioner – Children with Disabilities role in Herefordshire, 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).

Wandsworth Council is seeking passionate and experienced Social Workers to join their growing Family Safeguarding Service. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking authority where relationships, creativity, and meaningful impact are at the heart of everything you do.

Working within a family-led, systemic model, you will support children and families to overcome challenges, build resilience, and achieve long-term positive outcomes. You’ll be part of a collaborative, multi-agency environment where your voice is valued and your practice can truly make a difference.

In this role, you will:

• Manage a caseload across Child in Need, Child Protection, and care proceedings
• Build strong, relationship-based practice with children and families
• Undertake assessments and develop outcome-focused care plans
• Work within a multi-agency team including mental health, substance misuse, and domestic abuse specialists
• Contribute to a systemic and restorative model of practice
• Participate in regular supervision and reflective practice
• Support families to create sustainable change and improved outcomes

What You’ll Need:

• Social Work England Registration
• Social Work Qualification
• Completion of ASYE
• Experience within children’s social care (CIN/CP/Court work)
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• Commitment to systemic, strengths-based practice

What You Can Expect:

• Salary up to £52,767 per annum
• £1,000 retention bonus (every 2 years of service)
• Payment of Social Work England registration fee
• Up to 40 days annual leave (including bank holidays)
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• Manageable caseloads within small teams
• Dedicated business support to reduce admin
• Extensive training including Systemic Practice, Motivational Interviewing, and Leadership Development
• Clear career progression pathways to Senior and Advanced Practitioner roles
• Supportive leadership and strong team culture

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 – Family Safeguarding role in Wandsworth, 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 with Disabilities Team. This is a specialist role supporting children and young people with complex needs, ensuring they are safeguarded and receive the right level of support to achieve positive outcomes.

You will work within a multi-agency framework, delivering high-quality assessments, care planning, and statutory interventions across the child’s journey.

In this role, you will:

• Manage a caseload of children with disabilities and complex needs
• Undertake Child and Family Assessments and statutory visits
• Complete and review Child in Need, Child Protection, and Looked After Children plans
• Work closely with families, carers, schools, and health professionals
• Contribute to Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) processes where required
• Promote strengths-based and child-centred practice
• Maintain accurate and high-quality case recordings

What You’ll Need:

• Social Work England Registration
• Social Work Qualification
• Experience within a Children with Disabilities team or working with complex needs
• Strong assessment and multi-agency working skills
• Ability to manage risk and deliver effective interventions

What You Can Expect:

• £36 per hour
• 37 hours per week
• Hybrid working arrangements
• Supportive 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 Social Worker – Children with Disabilities role in Essex, 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 Senior Social Worker to join their Assessment & Intervention Team. This is a key frontline role focused on completing timely assessments, managing risk, and delivering effective interventions to safeguard children and support families.

You will work within a fast-paced service, managing complex cases and supporting less experienced colleagues, while contributing to strong, relationship-based practice and positive outcomes.

In this role, you will:

• Manage a complex caseload within Assessment & Intervention
• Undertake Section 17 and Section 47 assessments
• Lead on safeguarding processes and risk management
• Develop and review outcome-focused care plans
• Work closely with multi-agency partners to support children and families
• Provide guidance and support to 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 & Intervention or Duty & Assessment teams
• Confidence managing complex and high-risk cases
• Ability to support and mentor others within the team
• 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 & Intervention 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).

Barnet | Locum | £38.50 per hour | Hybrid Working

Barnet Council is seeking an experienced Senior Social Worker to join their Assessment Team. This is a fast-paced frontline role focused on completing timely assessments, managing risk, and ensuring children and families receive the right support at the earliest stage.

You will manage complex cases while supporting less experienced colleagues and contributing to high-quality, 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
• Make timely decisions in line with statutory thresholds
• Work closely with multi-agency partners
• Provide guidance and support to 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 and high-risk cases
• Ability to support and mentor others
• 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 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).

Barnet Council is seeking an experienced Senior Social Worker to join their Children with Disabilities Team. This is a specialist frontline role supporting children and young people with complex needs, ensuring they are safeguarded and supported to achieve positive outcomes.

You will manage complex cases while providing guidance to less experienced colleagues and contributing to high-quality, relationship-based practice.

In this role, you will:

• Manage a complex caseload of children with disabilities and additional needs
• Undertake Child and Family Assessments and statutory visits
• Develop and review Child in Need, Child Protection, and Looked After Children plans
• Work closely with families, carers, schools, and health professionals
• Contribute to Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) processes
• Provide support and mentoring to less experienced Social Workers
• Maintain high-quality reports and 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 Children with Disabilities services
• Confidence managing complex and high-risk cases
• Ability to support and mentor others
• 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 – Children with Disabilities 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).

Social Worker – Assessment Team

Bromley | Locum | £39.04 per hour | Hybrid Working

Bromley Council is seeking an experienced 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, carrying out high-quality assessments and contributing to positive outcomes for children through effective multi-agency working and relationship-based practice.

In this role, you will:

• Undertake Child and Family Assessments
• Complete Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries
• Manage a varied caseload within an assessment setting
• Assess risk and develop outcome-focused care plans
• Work closely with multi-agency partners including schools, health, and police
• Prepare high-quality reports and maintain accurate case recordings
• Support children and families through effective safeguarding interventions

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 risk and safeguarding concerns
• 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 – 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).

Are you an experienced Social Worker passionate about improving outcomes for children in care? We’re working with Camden to recruit a skilled practitioner for their Looked After Children Service, offering a highly competitive rate and a supportive hybrid working environment.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a forward-thinking borough that prioritises relationship-based practice and long-term positive outcomes for children and young people.

About the Role

You will be working within the Looked After Children team, supporting children and young people in care to achieve stability, permanency, and the best possible life chances.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage a caseload of Looked After Children and Care Leavers
• Complete statutory visits, care planning, and pathway plans
• Chair and contribute to reviews, ensuring care plans remain outcome-focused
• Work closely with carers, families, and partner agencies
• Prepare high-quality reports for court and review meetings
• Promote stability, permanence, and positive outcomes for children in care

About You

We’re looking for a confident and experienced Social Worker who thrives in a busy LAC environment.

Requirements:

• Qualified Social Worker with Social Work England registration
• Strong experience within Looked After Children or similar teams
• Good understanding of care planning, permanency, and safeguarding frameworks
• Ability to build meaningful relationships with children and young people
• Strong report writing and organisational skills
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team

Why Join Camden?

• Excellent pay rate of £39.04 per hour
• Hybrid working model – 2 to 3 days in the office
• Supportive management and stable team environment
• Opportunity to work in a borough known for high standards of practice
• Ongoing professional development opportunities
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your placement

Interested?

If you’re ready for your next locum opportunity and want to make a real impact within a well-regarded LAC service, get in touch today.

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

Social Worker – Children in Care 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 Children in Care Team.
You will work with looked after children and young people, ensuring they receive high-quality care, stability, and support to achieve positive long-term outcomes.

This role involves close partnership working with foster carers, residential providers, and multi-agency professionals to deliver effective care planning and secure permanence for children.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of children in care.
• Complete statutory visits, assessments, and reviews.
• Develop and progress care and permanence plans.
• Work closely with foster carers, residential settings, and partner agencies.
• Prepare high-quality reports for reviews 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
• Clear and transparent risk assessment
• Supporting positive change through restorative approaches
• 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 a fantastic balance of countryside living and strong connectivity:

• Access to beautiful outdoor spaces including Cannock Chase.
• Affordable housing and cost of living compared to many UK regions.
• Friendly communities with excellent schools and local amenities.
• Great transport links to Birmingham, Manchester, and across the Midlands.
• A supportive local authority focused on staff wellbeing, development, and improving services.
• It’s a great 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

Social Worker – Safeguarding Team

Pay Rate: £42 per hour
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

Gloucestershire County Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join its Safeguarding Team.
You will work with children and families where there are safeguarding concerns, completing assessments and delivering effective interventions to ensure children are protected and supported.

This is a well-supported service with a strong focus on multi-agency working 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 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.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records.

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 safeguarding practice.

Why Gloucestershire Is a Great Place to Live and Work

Gloucestershire offers a fantastic mix of countryside beauty and vibrant communities:

• Home to the stunning Cotswolds, perfect for outdoor living and scenic views.
• Thriving towns such as Cheltenham and Gloucester with culture, shopping, and entertainment.
• Excellent transport links to Bristol, Birmingham, Oxford, and London.
• More affordable housing compared to many South West locations.
• Strong communities, good schools, and a high quality of life.
• A supportive local authority focused on staff wellbeing, development, and improving outcomes for children.
• It’s a brilliant place to build your career while enjoying a great lifestyle.

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: £35 per hour
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

Derbyshire 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 fast-paced but supportive environment where you will manage complex cases and work closely with multi-agency partners.

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.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records.

Practice Model Used by Derbyshire

Derbyshire operates a Strengths-Based Practice Model supported by Signs of Safety.
This approach focuses on:

• Collaborative working with families and their support networks
• Clear and transparent risk assessment
• Identifying strengths and protective factors
• Structured safety planning
• Reflective supervision and continuous professional development
• The model supports consistent, high-quality, relationship-based practice across Children’s Services.

Interested?

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

For more information, call:
📞 07561 805654

Sheldon Phillips are working with Trafford Council to recruit an experienced Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP) to join their Emergency Duty Team (EDT). This is a key frontline role covering out-of-hours statutory mental health work, responding to urgent situations and ensuring appropriate legal and safeguarding interventions are in place.

Role Overview

As an AMHP within the Emergency Duty Team, you will be responsible for undertaking Mental Health Act assessments out of hours, responding to crisis situations involving individuals in the community, hospital settings, and police custody where required. You will work autonomously while being part of a wider EDT service, making timely and legally sound decisions to safeguard individuals experiencing acute mental health crises.

Key Responsibilities

• Carry out Mental Health Act assessments in line with statutory requirements
• Make decisions regarding detention under the Mental Health Act where appropriate
• Respond to urgent and crisis referrals out of hours via the EDT service
• Work closely with police, health professionals, hospitals, and other agencies
• Undertake risk assessments and safeguarding enquiries in complex situations
• Ensure accurate, timely, and legally robust documentation of all assessments
• Provide clear rationale for decisions and outcomes following assessments
• Work independently while contributing to a supportive EDT rota team
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of mental health legislation and guidance

Benefits

• Competitive rate of £40 per hour
• Out-of-hours work offering flexibility and varied shift patterns
• Opportunity to work in a highly skilled Emergency Duty Team environment
• Strong multi-agency working with health, police, and crisis services
• Experience across a wide range of complex and urgent mental health presentations
• Supportive service structure with experienced professionals available for consultation
• Valuable experience within a respected local authority EDT service

Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with current Social Work England registration
• Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP) qualification and approval
• Significant post-qualified experience in mental health services
• Strong knowledge of the Mental Health Act 1983 (as amended) and related legislation
• Experience of working in crisis, EDT, or acute mental health settings
• Ability to work autonomously and make defensible, timely decisions under pressure
• Excellent communication, risk assessment, and report writing skills
• Full driving licence and access to transport (desirable depending on rota requirements)

Interested?

If you are an experienced AMHP looking for a rewarding out-of-hours opportunity within a supportive EDT service, we would love to hear from you.

Please contact Emily Cooper on 07745 200325 or email ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com for more information or to apply.

Children in Care Social Worker | Derbyshire County Council (Chesterfield Locality) | £35 per hour

Sheldon Phillips are working with Derbyshire County Council to recruit an experienced Social Worker to join their Children in Care Team based in the Chesterfield locality. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a stable and supportive service working with children and young people who are looked after, ensuring they receive consistent care planning and positive long-term outcomes.

Role Overview

As a Children in Care Social Worker, you will manage a caseload of looked after children, focusing on ensuring their care plans are effective, stable, and centred around achieving permanence. You will work closely with children, carers, families, and multi-agency professionals to ensure their needs are met and their voices are central to all planning and decision-making.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of looked after children and young people
• Undertake statutory visits in line with legislation and local authority timescales
• Develop and review care plans, ensuring they promote permanence and stability
• Support pathway planning for care leavers where appropriate
• Prepare high-quality reports for reviews and, where required, court proceedings
• Work collaboratively with foster carers, adopters, and residential providers
• Build strong relationships with children and young people, ensuring their voice is heard
• Work closely with partner agencies including education, health, and early help services
• Maintain accurate, timely and high-quality case recording

Benefits

• Competitive rate of £35 per hour
• Supportive and experienced management team
• Stable Children in Care service with clear structure and guidance
• Hybrid/flexible working arrangements available
• Opportunity to work within a well-established local authority
• Manageable caseloads with a focus on quality practice
• Ongoing professional development opportunities

Requirements

• Social Work qualification (Degree/DipSW/CQSW)
• Registration with Social Work England
• Post-qualified experience within Children’s Services
• Experience working with looked after children is highly desirable
• Good understanding of the Children Act 1989 and care planning framework
• Experience of multi-agency working and child-focused practice
• Strong assessment, communication, and report writing skills
• Commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes for children and young people

Interested?

If you are an experienced Children’s Social Worker looking for your next locum opportunity, we’d love to hear from you.

Contact Emily Cooper on 07745 200325 or email ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com for more information or to apply.

Bracknell Forest Council are looking for an experienced Senior Social Worker to join their Safeguarding Team on a permanent basis. This is an exciting opportunity to join a high-performing local authority rated Outstanding in all areas by Ofsted (December 2025), recognised for not only sustaining but strengthening exceptional services for children and families.

This role would suit a confident and relational practitioner who is passionate about safeguarding, experienced in child protection and court work, and committed to delivering meaningful, child-centred practice within a supportive and forward-thinking service.

Role Overview

As a Senior Social Worker in the Safeguarding Team, you will manage a varied and complex caseload including Child in Need, Child Protection, Children Looked After, and care proceedings. You will play a key role in protecting children at risk of harm, undertaking robust assessments, and delivering effective, outcome-focused plans that improve children’s lived experiences.

Bracknell Forest operate the Family Safeguarding Model, with a strong emphasis on relational social work and Motivational Interviewing. You will work collaboratively with families and multi-disciplinary professionals to reduce risk and support families to stay together where it is safe to do so.

This is a role where high-quality practice is both expected and supported. You will contribute to a culture of continuous improvement, model strong practice, and support less experienced colleagues. The service is known for its manageable caseloads, strong leadership, and commitment to professional development, creating an environment where social workers can thrive.

Key responsibilities

• Manage a complex caseload including Child in Need, Child Protection, and care proceedings
• Develop and implement effective safeguarding and risk management plans
• Undertake high-quality assessments, reports, and court statements
• Participate in duty systems, responding to safeguarding concerns as they arise
• Work collaboratively with multi-agency partners to deliver coordinated interventions
• Apply the Family Safeguarding Model and relational practice approaches in all work
• Ensure timely visits, interventions, and case progression in line with statutory expectations
• Maintain accurate and high-quality case recording in line with GDPR and local policies
• Support and mentor less experienced colleagues, including NQSWs and students
• Engage in reflective supervision and contribute to ongoing professional development

Benefits

• Competitive salary of £49,918 – £53,048 per year
• £7,000 welcome payment (subject to T&Cs)
• 4% retention payment after 2 years’ service
• 28 days annual leave rising to 33 days, with the option to buy up to 10 additional days or sell up to 5 days
• Flexible and supportive working environment promoting work-life balance
• Local Government Pension Scheme with life insurance cover
• Reimbursement of Social Work England registration fees
• Access to high-quality internal and external training and clear career progression pathways
• Strong leadership and management support with a visible and approachable senior team
• Manageable caseloads allowing for meaningful and high-quality practice
• Paid employee volunteering scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support health and wellbeing
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, adoption, and fostering leave
• Inclusive workplace culture with staff networks, peer support, and social groups
• Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme (subject to eligibility)
• Recognition of continuous service from NHS and UKHSA (T&Cs apply)
• Sponsorship can be discussed for applicants with more than 2 years post-qualified experience

Requirements

• Social Work England registration
• Qualified Social Worker status
• Minimum 3 years’ post-qualified experience within Children’s Social Care
• Strong experience in safeguarding, child protection, and care proceedings
• Sound knowledge of relevant legislation, thresholds, and statutory guidance
• Experience of effective multi-agency working and partnership collaboration
• Ability to produce high-quality assessments, reports, and court statements
• Commitment to relational social work and improving outcomes for children
• Enhanced DBS and full compliance for permanent employment

Interested?

For more information or to apply, contact:
Emily Cooper – ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com | ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com | 07745 200325

Know someone suitable? We offer a referral bonus for successful recommendations.

Halton Council are looking for an experienced Social Worker to join their Duty and Assessment Team on a locum basis. This is a fast-paced frontline role focused on responding to new referrals, completing timely assessments, and ensuring children are safeguarded through effective decision-making and intervention.

This opportunity would suit a practitioner who thrives in a busy duty environment, is confident managing risk at the front door, and has strong experience in completing Child and Family Assessments and Section 47 enquiries.

Role Overview

As a Social Worker in the Duty and Assessment Team, you will be responsible for managing incoming referrals, undertaking initial visits, and completing statutory assessments to determine the level of need and risk. You will work within tight timescales to ensure children and families receive the appropriate level of intervention, whether through early help, Child in Need planning, or safeguarding processes.

This team sits at the front door of children’s services, making critical decisions at the earliest stage of involvement. The role requires strong analytical skills, confidence in threshold decision-making, and the ability to respond quickly and effectively to safeguarding concerns.

You will work closely with partner agencies including police, health, and education, ensuring information is shared effectively and that safeguarding action is taken where necessary. The role demands resilience, strong organisational skills, and the ability to balance a high-volume workload while maintaining quality practice.

Key responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of referrals and assessments within a duty setting
• Complete Child and Family Assessments within statutory timescales
• Undertake Section 47 enquiries and safeguarding investigations
• Conduct home visits and direct work with children and families
• Make threshold decisions and determine appropriate levels of intervention
• Initiate Child in Need or Child Protection plans where required
• Work closely with multi-agency partners to gather and share information
• Maintain accurate, timely, and analytical case records
• Attend strategy discussions, legal planning meetings, and case conferences
• Ensure effective and timely progression or transfer of cases

Benefits

• Competitive rate of £39 per hour
• Frontline experience within a busy Duty and Assessment service
• Opportunity to develop strong assessment and safeguarding skills
• Exposure to a wide range of cases at the initial point of contact
• Supportive team environment within a well-structured service
• Valuable experience in threshold decision-making and risk management

Requirements

• Social Work England registration
• Qualified Social Worker status
• Previous experience within Duty and Assessment or similar frontline teams
• Strong understanding of safeguarding processes, including Section 17 and Section 47
• Confidence in managing risk and making threshold decisions
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage competing priorities
• Strong assessment, analytical, and communication skills
• Enhanced DBS and full compliance for locum work

Interested?

For more information or to apply, contact:
Emily Cooper – ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com | 07745 200325

Know someone suitable? We offer a referral bonus for successful recommendations.

Experienced Social Worker – Children with Disabilities Team | Halton Council | £40 per hour

Halton Council are looking for an experienced Social Worker to join their Children with Disabilities Team on a locum basis. This is a specialist role working with children and young people with complex needs, supporting them and their families through statutory interventions, safeguarding processes, and tailored care planning.

This opportunity would suit a practitioner who has strong experience working with children with disabilities, is confident managing complex cases, and is skilled in multi-agency working to ensure children receive the right support and protection.

Role Overview

As an Experienced Social Worker in the Children with Disabilities Team, you will manage a caseload of children and young people with a range of disabilities and additional needs. You will complete statutory assessments, develop and review care plans, and ensure that each child’s needs are fully understood and met through coordinated multi-agency support.

This team focuses on safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children with disabilities, many of whom may be subject to Child in Need, Child Protection, or Children in Care plans. The role requires a strong understanding of how disability impacts development, parenting capacity, and risk, alongside the ability to adapt communication and practice to meet individual needs.

You will be expected to work closely with families, schools, health professionals, and specialist services to deliver effective, child-centred interventions. The role demands confident decision-making, strong assessment skills, and the ability to balance support with robust safeguarding practice.

Key responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of children with disabilities, including complex and high-risk cases
• Complete Child and Family Assessments, ensuring a holistic understanding of need and risk
• Develop, implement, and review Child in Need, Child Protection, and care plans
• Undertake safeguarding investigations and contribute to Section 47 enquiries where required
• Work closely with multi-agency partners including health, education, and specialist disability services
• Support children and families through tailored, relationship-based interventions
• Ensure all case recording is accurate, analytical, and in line with statutory requirements
• Attend and contribute to multi-agency meetings, reviews, and planning processes
• Advocate for children’s needs and ensure their voice is central to all planning

Benefits

• Competitive rate of £40 per hour
• Specialist role within a dedicated Children with Disabilities service
• Opportunity to work with complex and meaningful cases
• Strong multi-agency working environment with access to specialist services
• Valuable experience in disability-focused statutory social work
• Supportive team environment within a well-established local authority

Requirements

• Social Work England registration
• Qualified Social Worker status
• Significant post-qualified experience within children’s services
• Experience working with children with disabilities and complex needs
• Strong knowledge of safeguarding processes, including Section 17 and Section 47
• Confidence in multi-agency working and complex case management
• Ability to adapt practice to meet diverse communication and developmental needs
• Enhanced DBS and full compliance for locum work

Interested?

For more information or to apply, contact:
Emily Cooper – ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com | 07745 200325

Know someone suitable? We offer a referral bonus for successful recommendations.

Enfield | Locum | £37.52 per hour | Hybrid Working (2–3 Days in Office)

Enfield Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join their Child Protection Team. This is a frontline safeguarding role focused on managing risk, protecting vulnerable children, and supporting families through effective statutory interventions.

You will work within a supportive service, delivering high-quality assessments and ensuring timely, outcome-focused care planning for children and families.

In this role, you will:

• Manage a caseload of Child Protection and Child in Need cases
• Undertake Section 47 enquiries and risk assessments
• Develop and review Child Protection plans
• Lead and participate in strategy discussions, conferences, and core group meetings
• Work directly with children and families to promote positive change
• Prepare high-quality reports for conferences and court where required
• Maintain accurate and analytical 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 Child Protection teams
• Confidence managing complex and high-risk cases
• Excellent assessment, analytical, and decision-making skills
• Ability to attend the office 2–3 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 Social Worker – Child Protection role in Enfield, 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).

Barnsley are looking for an experienced Advanced Practitioner to join their Assessment Team on a locum basis. This is a strong opportunity for someone who is confident working at pace in a front-door service, supporting high-quality assessments, strong decision-making, and safe, timely planning for children and families.

This role will suit a practitioner who is comfortable managing complexity, overseeing risk, and providing support and guidance within a busy assessment environment.

Role Overview

As an Advanced Practitioner in the Assessment Team, you will take a lead role in progressing child and family assessments, responding to safeguarding concerns, and ensuring children receive the right support at the right time. You will work alongside managers and social workers to strengthen practice, support decision-making, and drive consistently good outcomes.

You will be part of a fast-paced frontline service completing timely assessments for children and families where there are concerns around welfare, risk, and need. The role requires strong statutory experience, confidence in child protection processes, and the ability to support less experienced staff while maintaining a high standard of practice. You will need to be organised, resilient, and able to make sound decisions in complex situations.

Key responsibilities

• Complete high-quality Child and Family Assessments within statutory timescales
• Progress Section 17 and Section 47 work in line with safeguarding procedures
• Make clear, evidence-based recommendations and plans for children and families
• Support robust risk assessment and safety planning in complex cases
• Work closely with multi-agency partners to inform decision-making and intervention
• Provide practice support and guidance to social workers within the team
• Contribute to strategy discussions, legal planning, and child protection processes
• Maintain accurate, analytical case recording and court-ready documentation where needed

Reasons to stay

• Advanced Practitioner opportunity within a frontline Assessment Team
• Competitive rate of £37 per hour
• Chance to play a key role in supporting strong practice and decision-making
• Varied and fast-paced work with a focus on safeguarding and timely intervention
• Opportunity to bring experience and leadership to a busy statutory setting

Requirements

• Social Work England registration
• Qualified Social Worker status
• Strong frontline children’s social work experience
• Previous experience within Assessment, Duty, or safeguarding services
• Confident working with child protection, risk, and threshold decision-making
• Ability to support others in practice and lead by example
• Enhanced DBS and full compliance for locum work

Interested?

For more information or to apply, contact:
Emily Cooper - 07745 200325 | ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

• Permanent position
• Salary up to £47,181 per annum
• £4,000 welcome bonus
• £2,500 retention bonus
• £8,000 relocation package
• Transfer of sponsorship available (for candidates already working in the UK)
• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements

Gloucestershire County Council is seeking passionate and committed Social Workers to join its Localities Team on a permanent basis. This is an excellent opportunity to join a forward-thinking authority that is investing heavily in its workforce through competitive incentives, relocation support, and long-term career development.

About Gloucestershire County Council

Gloucestershire is recognised for its strong leadership, child-focused practice model, and commitment to manageable caseloads. The Localities Team works at the heart of communities, delivering high-quality safeguarding, child in need, and child protection services while supporting families to achieve sustainable change.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a varied caseload of Child in Need, Child Protection, and court work cases
• Undertake statutory assessments and Section 47 enquiries
• Develop robust care and protection plans to safeguard children
• Prepare clear and analytical reports for conferences and court proceedings
• Work collaboratively with multi-agency partners to achieve positive outcomes
• Maintain accurate and timely case recording in line with statutory guidance

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with Social Work England registration
• Experience within frontline Children’s Services (Safeguarding / CIN / CP)
• Strong knowledge of child protection legislation and statutory frameworks
• Excellent assessment, analytical, and report-writing skills
• Ability to work effectively within a busy but well-supported team

Why Work With Us

• Salary up to £47,181 per annum
• £4,000 welcome bonus
• £2,500 retention bonus
• £8,000 relocation package
• Transfer of sponsorship available for eligible candidates already in the UK
• Hybrid working and flexible arrangements
• Strong supervision, CPD, and clear progression pathways
• Positive team culture and focus on staff wellbeing

Interested? Get in Touch

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

• Locum opportunity
• £38 per hour
• Based at Dover office
• Established Safeguarding Team
• Supportive management and clear practice framework

Kent County Council is seeking an experienced and motivated Social Worker to join its Safeguarding Team based in the Dover office. This is a strong opportunity for a practitioner who thrives in frontline safeguarding, offering a competitive rate and the chance to work within a well-structured and reputable local authority.

About Kent County Council

Kent County Council is recognised for its robust safeguarding procedures, strong leadership oversight, and commitment to continuous service improvement. The Dover team works collaboratively to ensure children are protected and families receive timely and effective interventions.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of children subject to Child Protection and Child in Need plans
• Undertake Section 47 investigations and safeguarding enquiries
• Complete statutory assessments and visits within required timescales
• Prepare comprehensive reports for child protection conferences and court proceedings
• Work in partnership with multi-agency professionals to safeguard children
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date case recording in line with statutory guidance

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with Social Work England registration
• Experience within Safeguarding / Child Protection services
• Strong knowledge of child protection legislation and statutory frameworks
• Confident in risk assessment and court-related work
• Ability to manage complex caseloads effectively

Why Work With Us

• £38 per hour competitive locum rate
• Established and supportive safeguarding team
• Office base in Dover with team collaboration
• Regular supervision and management support
• Potential for contract extension

Interested? Get in Touch

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

Achieving for Children is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join their Children with Disabilities Team covering Kingston and Richmond. This is a specialist frontline role supporting children and young people with complex needs and disabilities to ensure they are safeguarded and supported to achieve positive outcomes.

You will work within a multi-agency framework, delivering high-quality assessments, care planning, and statutory interventions in line with legislation and best practice.

In this role, you will:

• Manage a caseload of children with disabilities and complex needs
• Undertake Child and Family Assessments and statutory visits
• Develop and review Child in Need, Child Protection, and where applicable, Looked After Children plans
• Work closely with families, carers, schools, health professionals, and other partner agencies
• Contribute to Education, Health and Care Plan processes where required
• Complete high-quality reports and maintain accurate case recordings
• Promote positive outcomes through child-centred and strengths-based planning

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 with Disabilities service
• Strong knowledge of safeguarding and statutory frameworks
• Confidence managing complex and multi-agency cases
• Excellent assessment, analytical, and report-writing 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 – Children with Disabilities 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).

• Locum opportunity
• £38 per hour
• Based at Ashford office
• Well-established Safeguarding Team
• Supportive management and structured supervision

Kent County Council is seeking an experienced and dedicated Social Worker to join its Safeguarding Service based in the Ashford office. This is a fantastic locum opportunity to work within a well-organised authority that prioritises high-quality practice and positive outcomes for children and families.

About Kent County Council

Kent County Council is one of the largest and most respected local authorities in the UK, known for its structured safeguarding processes, strong management oversight, and commitment to improving outcomes for children. The Ashford team offers a collaborative and supportive environment with clear practice standards and accessible leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of children subject to Child Protection Plans and Child in Need Plans
• Undertake Section 47 investigations and safeguarding enquiries
• Complete statutory visits, assessments, and care planning within timescales
• Prepare high-quality reports for child protection conferences and court proceedings
• Work closely with multi-agency partners to safeguard children and reduce risk
• Maintain accurate and timely case recording in line with statutory guidance

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with Social Work England registration
• Experience within Safeguarding / Child Protection services
• Strong knowledge of child protection legislation and statutory frameworks
• Confident in court work and multi-agency safeguarding practice
• Ability to manage complex cases effectively in a fast-paced environment

Why Work With Us

• £38 per hour competitive locum rate
• Supportive and structured safeguarding service
• Office base in Ashford with established team support
• Strong management oversight and regular supervision
• Opportunity for contract extension

Interested? Get in Touch

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

Hammersmith and Fulham Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join their Referral and Assessment Team. This is a frontline statutory role responding to new referrals, undertaking timely assessments, and ensuring children and families receive appropriate and proportionate interventions in line with statutory duties.

You will work within departmental priorities and professional standards, contributing to high-quality safeguarding practice and effective multi-agency collaboration.

In this role, you will:

• Provide a service in line with statutory requirements and departmental priorities
• Undertake referral screening and complete timely Child and Family Assessments
• Respond to members of the public and partner agencies via telephone, correspondence, and direct contact
• Liaise with police, health, education, and other relevant agencies
• Develop and implement individual case plans in line with professional standards
• Participate in team meetings, supervision, and required training
• Contribute to the emergency duty rota as required
• Maintain high-quality written records and use case management systems effectively
• Make professional decisions within procedural guidelines, consulting management where appropriate
• Contribute to service development tasks and continuous improvement
• Actively promote and implement the Council’s equal opportunities policy in practice

What You’ll Need:

• Social Work England Registration
• Social Work Qualification
• At least 3 years’ post-qualified experience in children’s statutory services
• Experience within Referral and Assessment / Front Door services
• Strong assessment, analytical, and decision-making skills
• Confidence in multi-agency working and safeguarding processes

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 – Referral & Assessment role in Hammersmith and 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 – Children and Families Team

Pay Rate: £42 per hour
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

Gloucestershire County Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join its Children and Families Team.
You will be responsible for delivering high-quality assessments, safeguarding support, and long-term planning for children and families across the county.

Caseload:
You will hold around 18 cases, which will be a mixed caseload of CIN, CP, and CIC, including some court work.

This is a stable, well-structured service that places strong emphasis on reflective practice, multi-agency collaboration, and child-centred decision making.

Key Responsibilities

• Complete assessments under the Children Act (Section 17 & Section 47).
• Manage a balanced caseload of CIN, CP & CIC, including court proceedings where required.
• Undertake direct work with children and young people to ensure their voice guides planning.
• Develop high-quality care, safety and permanence plans.
• Work closely with schools, police, health, and voluntary sector partners.
• Prepare detailed, evidence-based reports for court and multi-agency meetings.
• Maintain accurate case recordings in line with statutory expectations.

Practice Model Used by Gloucestershire

Gloucestershire uses a Strengths-Based Practice Model, supported by the “Three Conversations” approach.
This framework promotes:

• Genuine, person-centred conversations with children and families
• Reducing unnecessary process and focusing on real outcomes
• Building on family strengths and natural support networks
• Clear, collaborative risk assessment and safety planning
• Strong reflective supervision and professional autonomy
• The model is well embedded and supports a consistent, relationship-based approach to social work.

Why Gloucestershire Is a Great Place to Live and Work

Gloucestershire is one of the most desirable areas in the South West, offering a blend of countryside beauty and vibrant town life:

• Home to the iconic Cotswolds, famous for rolling hills, scenic villages, and outdoor living.
• Fantastic cultural hubs including Cheltenham (festivals, restaurants, shops) and Gloucester (cathedral, quays, museums).
• Excellent transport links to Bristol, Birmingham, Oxford, Swindon, and London.
• Affordable housing compared to other South West hotspots.
• Good schools, green spaces, and strong community atmosphere.
• A supportive local authority committed to development, wellbeing, and improving outcomes for children.
• It’s a fantastic location for both career progression and quality of life.

Interested?

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

For more information, call:
📞 07561 805654

Social Worker – Children in Care Team

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

About the Role

Staffordshire County Council is looking for a committed Social Worker to join its Children in Care Team.
You will work with children and young people who are looked after, ensuring their safety, stability, and long-term wellbeing through high-quality care planning, direct work, and multi-agency collaboration.

This is a rewarding role where you’ll build strong relationships with young people, carers, and partner agencies to secure the best possible outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Complete statutory visits, assessments, and reviews for children in care.
• Develop and maintain high-quality care and permanence plans.
• Work closely with foster carers, residential homes, schools, and health teams.
• Prepare clear, professional reports for Looked After Reviews and court when needed.
• Undertake direct work to ensure the child’s voice shapes every decision.
• Support transitions to independence where appropriate.
• Maintain accurate and timely case records in line with statutory requirements.

Practice Model Used by Staffordshire

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

• Building meaningful, trusting relationships with children and families
• Collaborative working and repairing harm where possible
• Clear, structured risk assessment and safety planning
• Empowering families and young people to build on strengths
• Encouraging reflective supervision and confident decision-making
• The framework is embedded across Children’s Services and supports consistent, high-quality practice.

Why Staffordshire Is a Great Place to Live and Work

Staffordshire is known for its balance of countryside calm and strong connectivity:

• Beautiful landscapes including the Cannock Chase, perfect for walking, cycling, and outdoor life.
• Affordable housing and excellent value for money compared to major cities.
• Friendly towns such as Stafford, Lichfield, and Tamworth, offering great schools, amenities, and community feel.
• Excellent links to Birmingham, Manchester, and the wider Midlands.
• A supportive, stable council investing in staff development, modernised services, and improved social work practice.
• It’s a brilliant location for professionals wanting both career opportunities and a high quality of life.

Interested?

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

For more information, call:
📞 07561 805654

Advanced Practitioner – Child Protection Team

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

About the Role

Stoke-on-Trent City Council is seeking an experienced Advanced Practitioner to join its Child Protection Team.
You will lead on complex safeguarding work, support practitioners with decision-making, and ensure high-quality intervention for children and families at risk of significant harm.

This role requires strong analytical skills, confidence in managing risk, and the ability to support junior staff through reflective practice and robust oversight.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead on complex Section 47 enquiries and Child Protection processes.
• Provide professional guidance and support to Social Workers within the team.
• Oversee safety planning and intervention to ensure robust risk management.
• Carry out high-level assessments and produce court-standard reports.
• Chair multi-agency meetings where required and contribute to decision-making.
• Model best practice and contribute to service development.
• Ensure the child’s voice and lived experience are central to all planning.

Practice Model Used by Stoke

Stoke works within a Strengths-Based Practice Model, supported by Signs of Safety.
This approach emphasises:

• Transparent, collaborative work with families
• Clear, structured risk assessment
• Identifying strengths and support networks
• Consistent reflective supervision
• Solution-focused planning to improve outcomes
• The model is embedded across the service and underpins Stoke’s focus on safe, relationship-based practice.

Why Stoke Is a Great Place to Live and Work

Stoke-on-Trent offers excellent affordability, connectivity, and quality of life:

• One of the most affordable housing markets in the Midlands.
• Great transport links to Manchester, Birmingham, and Liverpool.
• Known as “The Potteries,” home to cultural attractions such as Gladstone Pottery Museum and Trentham Gardens.
• Friendly communities with excellent schools, parks, and local amenities.
• A stable local authority investing in improvement, staff development, and supportive practice environments.
• It’s a great location if you want a strong work-life balance with plenty of opportunity for professional growth.

Interested?

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

For more information, call:
📞 07561 805654

Herefordshire Council is looking for an experienced Social Worker to join its Children with Disabilities Team on a locum basis. This is a strong opportunity for someone who enjoys relationship-based practice, understands the complexities of disability-focused social work, and is confident managing safeguarding, planning, and multi-agency work with children and families who need specialist support.

You’ll be joining a service focused on delivering purposeful intervention, clear planning, and better long-term outcomes for children with disabilities and their families.

Role Overview
As a Social Worker in the Children with Disabilities Team, you will work with children and young people with a range of complex needs, ensuring they receive the right support, protection, and planning at the right time. The role will involve completing assessments, managing plans, coordinating multi-agency support, and building strong working relationships with families, education, health professionals, and partner agencies.

This team supports children and young people with disabilities who require statutory social work involvement, including Child in Need, Child Protection, and Children Looked After processes where appropriate. You will need to be confident in assessment, safeguarding, care planning, and direct work, while maintaining a child-centred approach that takes account of each child’s communication needs, developmental needs, and family context.

Herefordshire’s approach is centred around restorative and relationship-based practice, with an emphasis on working alongside families, understanding lived experience, and creating realistic plans that improve outcomes for children.

Key responsibilities

• Hold a caseload of children and young people with disabilities requiring statutory intervention
• Complete Child and Family Assessments, Child in Need plans, and Child Protection work where required
• Undertake direct work with children, adapting communication to meet individual needs
• Work closely with parents, carers, schools, health services, and wider professionals to coordinate effective support
• Prepare clear, evidence-based assessments, reports, and care plans within statutory timescales
• Contribute to strategy discussions, reviews, planning meetings, and multi-agency decision-making
• Identify and respond to safeguarding concerns, ensuring risk is assessed and managed appropriately
• Support children and families to access services that promote stability, safety, and wellbeing
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case recordings in line with statutory and local requirements

Benefits

• Opportunity to work in a specialist Children with Disabilities service
• Relationship-based practice with a strong child-centred focus
• Supportive team environment within an established local authority service
• Chance to make a meaningful impact with children and families requiring specialist intervention
• Competitive locum rate with a well-regarded council

Requirements

• Social Work England registration
• Qualified Social Worker status
• Previous statutory children’s social work experience
• Experience working with children with disabilities and their families
• Strong understanding of safeguarding, assessment, and care planning
• Ability to work effectively in a multi-agency setting
• Confident written skills and ability to manage a varied caseload

Interested?

For more information, please contact Emily Cooper on 07745 200325 or email ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com

Know someone who could be a good fit? We offer a referral bonus for any successfully placed candidate.

Southwark Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join the South West Adoption Assessment Team. This role covers a number of local authorities across South West London and focuses on assessing and supporting prospective adopters throughout their adoption journey.

You will assess adopters based in and around South London, particularly within South West London boroughs such as Sutton, Achieving for Children, Merton, and Croydon. The service is committed to reducing delay for children, particularly Black and minoritised ethnic children, especially boys who wait the longest for permanent families.

In this role, you will:

• Deliver training to prospective adopters
• Undertake comprehensive adoption assessments
• Present assessments and prospective adopters at panel
• Support adopters through the matching process and adoption journey
• Contribute to permanency planning for children
• Deliver support groups and training as part of Adopt London strategies
• Contribute to projects aimed at reducing delay and race disparity in adoption
• Work collaboratively across multiple local authorities

What You’ll Need:

• Social Work England Registration
• Social Work Qualification and completed ASYE
• Minimum 3 years’ post-qualified experience
• Experience in permanence planning and adoption work
• Strong assessment and analytical report-writing skills
• Ability to build positive relationships with diverse families and professionals
• Commitment to anti-racist and inclusive practice
• Knowledge of childcare and adoption legislation and statutory guidance
• Experience using Mosaic case management systems
• Strong organisational skills and confidence facilitating group work

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 – Adoption Assessment Team role in Southwark, 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).

Swindon | Locum | £42 per hour + £100 weekly travel/accommodation allowance | 3 Days Office-Based

Swindon Borough Council is seeking experienced Social Workers to join their Family Safeguarding Service. The service operates within a pod model, providing strong management oversight and collaborative support. Each pod consists of 5 Social Workers and 1 Manager, ensuring effective supervision and shared learning.

This is a frontline safeguarding role working across Child in Need, Child Protection, and court proceedings within a strengths-based Family Safeguarding model.

In this role, you will:

• Undertake comprehensive assessments, including parenting assessments
• Develop outcome-focused care plans with children and families
• Manage care proceedings within both private and public law
• Work within court timescales to achieve permanency plans, including adoption
• Analyse and evidence risk, recording clear professional analysis of interventions
• Work collaboratively with adult practitioners within the Family Safeguarding model
• Progress Child in Need plans to improve long-term outcomes

What You’ll Need:

• Social Work England Registration
• Social Work Qualification
• Minimum 3 years’ PQE within a permanent statutory setting
• Strong experience in Family Safeguarding, CIN, CP, and court work
• Ability to undertake parenting assessments and permanency planning
• Confident risk analysis and high-quality recording skills
• Must be a car driver
• Ability to attend the office 3 days per week
• Must live more than 50 miles from Swindon to qualify for travel allowance
• Condensed working patterns cannot be accommodated

Additional Benefits:

• £100 weekly travel/accommodation allowance (in place until 10 May 2026)
• Strong pod structure offering consistent management oversight
• Clear focus on collaborative practice and improved outcomes

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 – Family Safeguarding role in Swindon, 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).

We are currently recruiting an experienced Social Worker to join the Looked After Children’s (LAC) Service at London Borough of Sutton, offering a competitive rate of £39.04 per hour. This is an excellent opportunity to work within a supportive, child-focused authority committed to achieving outstanding outcomes for children in care.

Sutton is known for its stable management, strong team culture, and excellent staff support. You will be part of a well-structured service where relationship-based practice, permanency planning, and child-centred decision-making are central to everyday work.

About Sutton Council

Sutton provides a positive and progressive working environment, with strong leadership, high-quality supervision, and excellent opportunities for learning and development. The council places a strong emphasis on staff wellbeing, flexible working, and reflective practice, enabling social workers to deliver consistent, high-quality care planning and intervention.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of Looked After Children, ensuring high-quality care planning and permanence planning
• Undertake statutory visits, direct work, and life-story work with children and young people
• Complete Pathway Plans, Care Plans, and Permanency Plans
• Prepare high-quality reports for LAC reviews, court proceedings, and permanency panels
• Work collaboratively with carers, families, IROs, education, health, and partner agencies
• Support placement stability, emotional wellbeing, and positive long-term outcomes

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker (Degree or equivalent)
• Registered with Social Work England
• Minimum 2 years post-qualified experience within statutory children’s services
• Strong experience within Looked After Children / Children in Care teams
• Sound knowledge of care planning regulations, permanence planning, and court processes
• Excellent communication, assessment, and relationship-building skills

Why Work With Us?

• Competitive pay rate – £39.04 per hour
• Flexible and hybrid working options
• Supportive management and stable team environment
• Manageable caseloads and strong administrative support
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your placement
• Referral bonus available

Interested?

To apply or for further details, please contact:

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

Social Worker – Children with Disabilities Team

Pay Rate: £39.04 per hour
Hours: 35 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

London Borough of Merton is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join its Children with Disabilities (CWD) Team.
You will support children and young people with complex needs, ensuring they receive high-quality assessments, tailored support packages, and strong safeguarding intervention where required.

This is a specialist, relationship-focused role working closely with families, health professionals, schools, and multi-agency partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Complete Children Act assessments for children with disabilities and complex needs.
• Manage a specialist caseload including CIN, CP, and short breaks support.
• Undertake safeguarding enquiries and risk assessments.
• Develop personalised care and support plans for children and families.
• Work closely with education, paediatric services, and community providers.
• Ensure the voice of the child shapes planning and intervention.
• Maintain accurate, timely records and prepare high-quality reports.

Practice Model Used by Merton

Merton uses a Strengths-Based, Relationship-Focused Practice Model supported by Signs of Safety principles.
This framework promotes:

• Collaborative, transparent work with families
• Clear risk analysis and safety planning
• Strong focus on strengths, solutions, and support networks
• Reflective supervision and continuous professional development
• Consistent, high-quality practice grounded in children’s lived experiences
• The model is embedded across the service and supports confident, stable social work practice.

Interested?

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

For more information, call:
📞 07561 805654

Social Worker – Assessment Team

Pay Rate: £35 per hour
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

Derbyshire County Council is seeking a dedicated Social Worker to join its Assessment Team.
You will be responsible for completing high-quality assessments, ensuring children and families receive timely, effective interventions that focus on safety, stability, and improved long-term outcomes.

This is a fast-paced but supportive service where you will work closely with families, schools, health services, and multi-agency partners to make informed, child-centred decisions.

Key Responsibilities

• Complete Children Act assessments, including Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries.
• Manage an assessment-focused caseload with clear, structured timescales.
• Work collaboratively with health, education, police, and voluntary services.
• Undertake direct work with children and young people.
• Develop clear safety plans and recommendations based on risk and need.
• Prepare high-quality reports for meetings, conferences, and court where required.
• Maintain accurate, timely case records in line with statutory guidance.

Practice Model Used by Derbyshire

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

• Collaborative work with families and their support networks
• Transparent, structured risk assessment
• Clear safety planning
• Emphasis on strengths and protective factors
• Reflective supervision to support professional judgment
• This model is well embedded across the authority and promotes high-quality, relationship-based practice.

Why Derbyshire Is a Great Place to Live and Work

• Derbyshire offers a strong blend of lifestyle, community, and professional opportunity:
• Home to the breathtaking Peak District National Park, ideal for walking, cycling, and outdoor living.
• Affordable housing and lower cost of living compared to major cities.
• Friendly towns and villages with excellent schools and local amenities.
• Easy access to Derby, Nottingham, Sheffield, Manchester, and key transport routes.
• A supportive, stable authority known for development opportunities, good management oversight, and a strong commitment to staff wellbeing.
• It’s a brilliant location for both personal lifestyle and long-term career growth.

Interested?

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

For more information, call:
📞 07561 805654

We are currently recruiting an experienced Social Worker to join the Assessment Service at Surrey County Council, offering an excellent rate of £42 per hour. This is a fantastic opportunity to work within a fast-paced, supportive service where high-quality frontline practice and timely decision-making are at the heart of everything they do.

Surrey is a progressive and well-resourced authority, known for its strong leadership, manageable caseloads, and commitment to staff wellbeing and professional development. This role offers the chance to make an immediate impact by delivering timely assessments and safeguarding interventions that lead to positive outcomes for children and families.

About Surrey County Council

Surrey County Council provides a dynamic and supportive working environment, combining excellent management support, high-quality training, and a collaborative team culture. The authority is committed to continuous improvement, innovation, and flexible working, enabling practitioners to deliver outstanding frontline practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake statutory assessments under Section 17 and Section 47 of the Children Act
• Complete high-quality, timely assessments to identify risk, need, and protective factors
• Carry out home visits, direct work with children and families, and multi-agency liaison
• Participate in strategy discussions, legal planning meetings, and child protection enquiries
• Produce clear, analytical reports and assessments to support informed decision-making
• Maintain accurate, timely case recording in line with statutory and local authority requirements

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker (Degree or equivalent)
• Registered with Social Work England
• Minimum 2 years post-qualified experience within statutory children’s services
• Strong background in frontline assessment and safeguarding
• Sound knowledge of UK children’s legislation, statutory guidance, and assessment frameworks
• Excellent communication, analytical, and organisational skills

Why Work With Us?

• Market-leading pay rate – £42 per hour
• Flexible and hybrid working model
• Supportive management and strong team environment
• Manageable caseloads and excellent systems
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your placement
• Generous referral bonus available

Interested?

To apply or for further details, please contact:

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

About the role

This is a Children in Care role within a statutory children’s service, working with children and young people subject to care proceedings, care orders, and long-term care planning. You’ll hold cases from care entry through to permanence, working closely with carers, IROs, schools, health, and wider professionals to ensure children’s needs are met and plans progress without drift.

The role requires strong care planning practice, direct work with children, and clear recording. Confidence around court-related work, statutory visits, and placement stability is important.

Key responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of children and young people in care, ensuring all statutory duties are met.
• Complete statutory visits and direct work, keeping the child’s lived experience central to planning.
• Develop and progress care plans that are outcome-focused, realistic, and regularly reviewed.
• Work toward permanence planning (reunification, long-term fostering, kinship, or adoption where appropriate).
• Monitor and support placement stability, identifying risks early and taking action to reduce disruption.
• Prepare high-quality reports for Looked After Reviews, court, and other statutory meetings.
• Work closely with IROs, foster carers, residential settings, schools, and health professionals.
• Participate in multi-agency meetings and ensure plans are progressed within timescales.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case recordings in line with statutory requirements and local policy.
• Escalate safeguarding concerns appropriately and take timely action where risk increases.

Benefits

• £39 per hour locum rate
• Well-established statutory team with a clear focus on children in care
• Good fit for social workers with strong care planning and permanence experience
• Meaningful, relationship-based work with children and young people

Requirements

• Social Work qualification (Degree/DipSW/CQSW or equivalent)
• Social Work England registration
• Recent statutory children’s social work experience
• Experience in a Children in Care / Looked After Children / Corporate Parenting team
• Confident with care planning, permanence planning, and statutory processes
• Strong assessment, recording, and multi-agency working skills

Interested?

For more information or to apply, contact:

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

Know someone suitable? We offer a referral bonus for successful recommendations.

Social Worker – Children and Families Team

Pay Rate: £37.52 per hour
Hours: 36 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join its Children and Families Team.
This role focuses on supporting children, young people, and families through high-quality assessment, planning, and intervention, ensuring safety, stability, and improved outcomes.

You will work within a highly regarded service that values reflective practice, professional autonomy, and multi-agency collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

• Complete assessments under the Children Act, including Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries.
• Manage a varied caseload including CIN, CP, and Care Proceedings.
• Work closely with schools, health teams, police, and community services.
• Develop and review child-centred care and safety plans.
• Undertake direct work with children to ensure their voice shapes all decisions.
• Prepare high-quality reports for legal and multi-agency meetings.
• Maintain accurate, timely records in line with statutory requirements.

Practice Model Used by Kensington and Chelsea

Kensington and Chelsea uses a Systemic Practice Model, integrated across Children’s Services.
This approach is built around:

• Relationship-based, strengths-driven social work
• Collaborative practice with families
• Understanding family systems, patterns, and dynamics
• Reflective supervision as a core component
• Trauma-informed, solution-focused intervention
• This model is well embedded and supports a stable, high-quality practice environment.

Why Kensington and Chelsea Is a Great Place to Live and Work

Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea offers one of the most vibrant, culturally rich environments in the UK:

• Home to world-famous attractions like Kensington Palace, Portobello Road Market, and the Natural History Museum.
• Beautiful residential areas such as Chelsea, Notting Hill, South Kensington, and Holland Park.
• Excellent transport links across London and beyond.
• A diverse, international community with outstanding schools, cafés, parks, and cultural spaces.
• A stable local authority with strong leadership, high practice standards, and investment in staff wellbeing and development.
• It’s an exceptional location for both lifestyle and career progression.

Interested?

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

For more information, call:
📞 07561 805654

About the role

This is a Family Support and Protection role within Children’s Services, working with children and families on Child in Need and Child Protection plans. You’ll hold cases from assessment transfer through to step-down or escalation, completing direct work, coordinating multi-agency plans, and ensuring children’s lived experience stays central to decision-making.

You’ll need to be confident with safeguarding processes, risk analysis, and producing high-quality written work, including assessments, plans, and court-related documentation where required.

Key responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of children and families within a Family Support and Protection service.

• Hold and progress Child in Need and Child Protection plans, ensuring timely intervention and clear outcomes.
• Complete statutory visits and direct work with children to assess risk, need, and protective factors.
• Undertake assessments and update plans in line with changing family circumstances.
• Progress Section 47 enquiries and safeguarding actions where concerns escalate.
• Build effective working relationships with parents and carers while maintaining a clear focus on the child’s safety.
• Work closely with partner agencies including schools, health, police, and early help services.
• Attend and contribute to strategy meetings, core groups, child protection conferences, and review meetings.
• Maintain accurate case recordings and produce clear, evidence-based reports within timescales.
• Escalate risk appropriately and support step-down planning where risks reduce.

Benefits

• £39.00 per hour locum rate
• Strong frontline safeguarding role with meaningful casework
• Opportunity to work in a team focused on long-term outcomes for children
• Good fit for social workers confident in CP/CIN planning and multi-agency practice

Requirements

• Social Work qualification (Degree/DipSW/CQSW or equivalent)
• Social Work England registration
• Recent statutory children’s social work experience
• Experience in Safeguarding / Family Support / Child Protection teams
• Confident managing CIN and CP plans
• Strong assessment, risk management, and multi-agency working skills
• Ability to produce high-quality written work and maintain accurate records

Interested?

For more information or to apply, contact:

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

Know someone suitable? We offer a referral bonus for successful recommendations.

We are currently recruiting an experienced Social Worker to join the Safeguarding Service at Surrey County Council, offering an excellent rate of £42 per hour. This is a fantastic opportunity to work within a supportive, forward-thinking authority that places strong emphasis on quality practice, professional development, and positive outcomes for children and families.

Surrey is known for its commitment to safeguarding excellence, manageable caseloads, and strong management support. You’ll be joining a stable, well-resourced service where your skills, experience, and professional judgement will be genuinely valued.

About Surrey County Council

Surrey offers an outstanding working environment, combining strong leadership, high-quality training, and a collaborative team culture. The authority prioritises staff wellbeing, flexible working, and continuous professional development, ensuring you are fully supported to deliver high-quality safeguarding practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a complex caseload of children subject to Child Protection Plans, Child in Need Plans, and court proceedings
• Undertake high-quality statutory assessments, Section 47 enquiries, and risk assessments
• Complete clear, analytical reports for court and multi-agency meetings
• Chair and contribute effectively to strategy meetings, child protection conferences, and core groups
• Work collaboratively with partner agencies to safeguard children and promote positive outcomes
• Maintain accurate and timely case recording in line with statutory requirements

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker (Social Work degree or equivalent)
• Registered with Social Work England
• Minimum 2 years post-qualified experience within statutory children’s services
• Strong experience in child protection and safeguarding
• Sound knowledge of UK child protection legislation, statutory guidance, and court processes
• Excellent assessment, analytical, and communication skills

Why Work With Us?

• Exceptional pay rate – £42 per hour
• Flexible and hybrid working options
• Supportive management and strong team culture
• Manageable caseloads
• Excellent opportunity to gain experience within a high-performing local authority
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your placement
• Referral bonus available

Interested?

To apply or for further details, please contact:

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

About the role

This is a Duty and Assessment role within Children’s Services, focused on responding to new referrals, completing timely assessments, and progressing safeguarding work where concerns are identified. You’ll work closely with partner agencies and families, balancing pace with quality to ensure children are protected and plans are proportionate.

You’ll need to be confident in threshold decision-making, direct work with children, and producing clear, evidence-based assessments and reports.

Key responsibilities

• Manage a caseload within a Duty and Assessment service, responding to new referrals and safeguarding concerns.
• Complete statutory assessments and produce clear, timely written work to support decision-making.
• Undertake Section 47 enquiries where required and progress child protection work in line with statutory guidance.
• Carry out direct work with children and families to understand risk, need, and protective factors.
• Develop and progress Child in Need and Child Protection plans where appropriate.
• Work closely with multi-agency partners including schools, health, police, and early help services.
• Attend and contribute to strategy discussions, core groups, and other safeguarding meetings.
• Maintain accurate case recordings and ensure all work is completed to a high standard within timescales.
• Escalate risk appropriately and ensure children are seen and safeguarded in line with service expectations.

Benefits

• £39.00 per hour locum rate
• Frontline role with strong exposure to assessment and safeguarding practice
• Good opportunity for experienced social workers who enjoy fast-paced work
• Chance to make an immediate impact in a key statutory team

Requirements

• Social Work qualification (Degree/DipSW/CQSW or equivalent)
• Social Work England registration
• Recent statutory children’s social work experience
• Strong experience in Duty / Assessment / Front Door services
• Confident with safeguarding, threshold decisions, and multi-agency working
• Ability to complete high-quality assessments and maintain clear case records

Interested?

For more information or to apply, contact:

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

Know someone suitable? We offer a referral bonus for successful recommendations.

Barnet Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join their Duty & Assessment Team. This is a fast-paced frontline role where you will complete timely assessments, respond to safeguarding concerns, and ensure children receive the right support at the right time.

Working within a supportive team environment, you will undertake Section 47 enquiries, Child and Family Assessments, and short-term interventions, making clear, evidence-based decisions to safeguard children and promote positive outcomes.

In this role, you will:

• Manage a busy duty caseload, responding to new referrals and safeguarding concerns
• Complete Child and Family Assessments within statutory timescales
• Undertake Section 47 investigations and risk assessments
• Develop clear, outcome-focused plans to ensure children’s safety and wellbeing
• Work collaboratively with multi-agency partners
• Present cases at strategy meetings and child protection conferences
• Maintain accurate and high-quality case recordings

What You’ll Need:

• Social Work England Registration
• Social Work Qualification
• At least 3 years’ experience in children’s social care
• Strong experience within Duty & Assessment / Front Door services
• Confident decision-making and risk management skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced statutory 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 Social Worker – Duty & Assessment 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).

Enfield Council | Hybrid Working | £37.52 per hour

• £37.52 per hour (umbrella)
• Hybrid working – 3 days per week in the office
• Initial 3-month contract with strong extension potential
• Manageable caseloads & excellent management support
• Fast onboarding & quick start available

Enfield Council is seeking experienced Locum Social Workers to join their Assessment Service, offering excellent hourly rates, flexible hybrid working, and strong management support. This is a fantastic opportunity to work within a well-established, supportive authority committed to high-quality frontline practice and excellent outcomes for children and families.

You will be responsible for undertaking timely statutory assessments, completing Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries, and progressing cases through the front door with a strong focus on safeguarding and early intervention.

About Enfield Council

Enfield is a forward-thinking London borough that prides itself on strong leadership, supportive management, and a culture of learning and continuous improvement. The authority is committed to ensuring social workers feel valued, supported, and empowered to deliver high-quality interventions through manageable caseloads, excellent supervision, and flexible working practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake statutory assessments in line with Children Act 1989 and Working Together guidance
• Complete Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries
• Progress cases efficiently through the Assessment pathway
• Conduct home visits, direct work, and safety planning
• Prepare high-quality reports and assessments
• Work collaboratively with multi-agency partners
• Maintain accurate and timely case recordings

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with Social Work England registration
• Recent experience within Assessment / Front Door / Referral & Assessment teams
• Strong understanding of safeguarding, thresholds, and statutory frameworks
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent communication, organisation, and report-writing skills

Why Work With Us?

• £37.52 per hour
• Hybrid working – 3 days per week in the office
• Flexible working arrangements
• Supportive management and excellent supervision
• Fast onboarding and quick start
• Competitive referral bonus available

To apply or find out more, contact:
Josh Dhumisani
📞 07902371315 📧 jdhumisani@sheldon-phillips.com

Achieving for Children | Richmond & Kingston / Windsor & Maidenhead | Up to £50,000 + Excellent Benefits

• Up to £50,000 salary depending on experience
• £3,000 welcome bonus
• £3,000 retention bonus
• Relocation package available
• Hybrid working model & flexible working arrangements
• Strong management support & excellent progression opportunities
• Please note: This role does NOT offer visa sponsorship

Achieving for Children is looking to recruit experienced and passionate Social Workers to join their Assessment Service, based across their Richmond & Kingston or Windsor & Maidenhead office locations. This is an exciting opportunity to join a high-performing, supportive organisation committed to delivering outstanding services to children and families, while offering excellent pay, flexibility, and long-term career development.

You will play a key role in undertaking high-quality assessments, managing cases through the front door, and delivering timely, child-focused interventions that create lasting change.

About Achieving for Children

Achieving for Children is a community interest company delivering children’s services on behalf of the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames, London Borough of Richmond upon Thames, and the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead. They are known for their strong leadership, innovative practice models, and exceptional staff development culture, ensuring social workers are supported, valued, and empowered to deliver their best work.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake timely, high-quality statutory assessments
• Complete Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries in line with statutory guidance
• Produce robust assessments, safety plans, and intervention strategies
• Work directly with children and families to effect positive change
• Liaise effectively with multi-agency partners to safeguard children
• Maintain accurate, high-quality case records and reports
• Participate in supervision, training, and continuous professional development

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with Social Work England registration
• Experience within Children’s Front Door, Assessment, or Safeguarding Teams
• Strong knowledge of child protection legislation, statutory guidance, and assessment frameworks
• Excellent communication, analytical, and report-writing skills
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-demand environment

Why Work With Us?

• Up to £50,000 salary
• £3,000 welcome bonus
• £3,000 retention bonus
• Relocation package available
• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements
• Supportive leadership and excellent supervision
• Clear career progression and professional development pathways
• High-quality training and continuous learning opportunities

To apply or find out more, contact:
Josh Dhumisani
📞 07902371315
📧 jdhumisani@sheldon-phillips.com

Gloucestershire County Council | Up to £47,000 per annum + Outstanding Bonus Package

• Up to £47,000 salary depending on experience
• £8,000 retention bonus
• £4,000 welcome bonus
• Additional £2,000 retention bonus after 12 months
• Hybrid working model & flexible working arrangements
• Manageable caseloads & strong management support
• Excellent professional development & career progression

Gloucestershire County Council is looking to recruit an experienced and motivated Senior Social Worker to join their Localities Team, delivering high-quality, relationship-based social work to children and families across the county. This is an exciting opportunity to join a supportive, forward-thinking authority that truly values its workforce and invests heavily in retention, development, and wellbeing.

You will play a vital role in supporting complex cases, mentoring less experienced colleagues, and driving best practice across the service, while maintaining direct case responsibility. This role offers excellent financial rewards, flexible working, and a genuinely positive working environment.

About Gloucestershire County Council

Gloucestershire is proud of its strong, stable workforce and commitment to continuous improvement. The council has developed a culture rooted in collaboration, professional curiosity, and high-quality supervision. With excellent leadership, manageable caseloads, and a clear career pathway, social workers are supported to thrive and deliver outstanding outcomes for children and families.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a complex caseload of children and families within statutory frameworks
• Provide high-quality assessments, care planning, and direct interventions
• Undertake court work, including preparing high-quality statements and care plans
• Act as a mentor and role model to less experienced social workers and ASYEs
• Support reflective practice and continuous professional development across the team
• Work collaboratively with partner agencies to achieve the best outcomes for children
• Maintain accurate, high-quality case recording and reporting

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with Social Work England registration
• Significant post-qualified experience within Children’s Services
• Strong knowledge of statutory legislation, safeguarding frameworks, and court processes
• Experience supporting complex child protection and court work cases
• Confident decision-maker with excellent analytical and communication skills
• Commitment to relationship-based and strengths-based practice

Why Work With Us?

• Salary up to £47,000
• £4,000 welcome bonus
• £8,000 retention bonus
• Additional £2,000 retention payment after 12 months
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• Manageable caseloads and excellent management support
• Clear progression routes and leadership opportunities
• Continuous professional development and training investment
• Highly supportive and stable working environment

To apply or find out more, contact:
Josh Dhumisani
📞 07902371315 📧 jdhumisani@sheldon-phillips.com

Adults Social Worker – Localities Team

Pay Rate: £35 per hour
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

Gloucestershire County Council is seeking an experienced Adults Social Worker to join its Localities Team.
You will work with adults, older people, carers, and individuals with long-term conditions, ensuring they receive appropriate support, personalised care, and safeguarding oversight where required.

This is a varied role involving assessments, multi-agency working, and delivering strengths-based intervention to improve independence and wellbeing.

Key Responsibilities

• Carry out Care Act assessments and reviews.
• Work with adults with physical disabilities, learning disabilities, mental health needs, and age-related conditions.
• Complete safeguarding enquiries under Section 42 of the Care Act.
• Develop personalised care and support plans focused on independence and choice.
• Work in partnership with health teams, housing, voluntary sector organisations, and carers.
• Maintain accurate case records and prepare professional documentation.
• Use strength-based conversations and community-led support approaches.

Practice Model Used by Gloucestershire

Gloucestershire uses a Strengths-Based Practice Model, aligned with the Three Conversations Approach, which focuses on:

• Building genuine, person-centred conversations with adults and carers
• Maximising independence and community support
• Reducing unnecessary assessments
• Providing timely, outcome-focused intervention
• Encouraging self-directed support and resilience
• This framework supports autonomy, empowers practitioners, and delivers consistent, high-quality adult social care.

Why Gloucestershire Is a Great Place to Live and Work

Gloucestershire offers a fantastic blend of countryside tranquillity, historic beauty, and modern amenities:

• Home to the stunning Cotswolds, known for its rolling hills, scenic villages, and exceptional outdoor lifestyle.
• Thriving towns such as Gloucester and Cheltenham provide shopping, culture, festivals, and vibrant social scenes.
• Excellent transport links to Bristol, Birmingham, Oxford, Swindon, and London.
• Affordable housing compared to other South West regions.
• Great schools, green spaces, and a high quality of life for families and professionals.
• A stable authority committed to supporting its social workers through training, reflective supervision, and career progression.
• Overall, it’s a brilliant place to build both your career and lifestyle.

Interested?

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

To discuss the role further, call:
📞 07561 805654

Social Worker – Safeguarding Team

Pay Rate: £38 per hour
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Locum

About the Role

West Berkshire Council is seeking a dedicated and experienced Social Worker to join its Safeguarding Team.
You will work with children, young people, and families where safeguarding concerns have been identified, ensuring risk is managed effectively while supporting family strengths and improving outcomes.

This is an excellent opportunity to be part of a stable, supportive authority known for strong leadership and high-quality practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Complete assessments under the Children Act, including Section 47 and Section 17 assessments.
• Manage a caseload of children subject to CIN, CP, and court proceedings.
• Work collaboratively with partner agencies including health, police, schools, and voluntary services.
• Develop and review child protection and safety plans.
• Conduct direct work with children to ensure their voice shapes planning.
• Produce high-quality reports and maintain accurate case records.
• Contribute to multi-agency meetings, conferences, and court processes.

Practice Model Used by West Berkshire

West Berkshire uses a Family Safeguarding Model, a strengths-based, multi-disciplinary approach designed to:

• Keep children safely with their families wherever possible
• Support whole-family intervention
• Reduce risk through collaborative practice
• Integrate domestic abuse, mental health, and substance misuse specialists directly within teams
• Provide structured, evidence-based assessment and planning tools
• This model is nationally recognised for improving outcomes and creating stable, supportive working environments for practitioners.

Why West Berkshire Is a Great Place to Live and Work

West Berkshire offers an exceptional balance of countryside living, excellent transport links, and strong community life:

• Beautiful landscapes including the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, perfect for walking, cycling, and outdoor activities.
• Vibrant towns such as Newbury, known for shops, cafés, culture, and the famous Newbury Racecourse.
• Great schools and family-friendly communities.
• Easy access to Reading, Oxford, Swindon, London, and the M4 corridor.
• Affordable compared to many surrounding areas in the South East.
• A supportive local authority with strong stability, good leadership, and ongoing investment in Children’s Services.
• It’s a fantastic location for both lifestyle and professional growth.

Interested?

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

To discuss the role further, call:
📞 07561 805654