Front Door Social Worker
Job Description
Are you an experienced practitioner looking for high autonomy and a meaningful impact without the burden of caseholding? If you’re passionate about making decisions and supporting families, this is the perfect opportunity for you.
Why join us?
- autonomy and impact: Work independently with significant responsibility, contributing to decision-making and providing crucial support to families
- flexibility: enjoy a 14-week cycle with 9.25 hour shifts over 4 days, with occasional on-call duties rewarded with a standby rate. Split your time between our office in Wareham and working from home
- recognition: this role is recognised through a higher salary than our standard social work positions and is ideal for experienced social workers
We Offer
- supportive environment: thrive in a team known for its collaborative and positive culture
- professional growth: opportunities to grow both professionally and personally in a nurturing environment
- wellbeing support: access to talking therapies, a network of Mental Health Champions, and workshops by our Employee Wellbeing Team
What You Will Be Doing
As a Consultant Social Worker at our Front Door (Children’s Advice and Duty Service – ChAD), you’ll join a supportive, forward-thinking team dedicated to keeping children safe at home whenever possible. You’ll engage in varied, exciting challenges working closely with children, families, and partners.
Key Responsibilities
- decision making: engage in vital decisions affecting children’s lives without the need for caseholding.
- family support: work to support families in meeting the needs of their children.
- collaboration: work closely with Family Help, MASH, and other partners.
- innovation: be part of the Families First for Children Pathfinder, a nationally recognised initiative, receiving central government support.
About You
- qualifications: Diploma/Degree/MA in Social Work and registration with Social Work England.
- experience: ideally a minimum of 4 years post-qualifying experience in Children’s Services.
- skills: ability to work flexibly, remain calm under pressure, and support colleagues and partner agencies.
- mindset: commitment to a positive learning culture and innovative approaches to social care.
Be part of an exceptional team recognised as “Good with Outstanding Leadership” by Ofsted. Make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families in Dorset. Apply now and help shape the future of social care.