Location: Ipswich, Suffolk, United Kingdom
Salary: £36,124 – £45,595 per year (plus up to £4,000 retention payment)
Job Type: Permanent, Full-time or Part-time
Visa Sponsorship: Available
Closing Date: 28 February 2025
About Suffolk County Council
Suffolk County Council (SCC) is a forward-thinking, modern organization committed to delivering exceptional children’s social care services. Our approach prioritizes flexibility, career progression, and professional support, ensuring our social workers are empowered to provide the best possible care for children, young people, and families.
If you’re a dedicated social worker looking for a role that offers career growth, competitive pay, and job security, this opportunity is perfect for you.
Available Roles & Salary Information
We have multiple openings across various teams in Suffolk, offering competitive salaries and retention bonuses:
Social Worker Roles
- Salary: £36,124 – £39,513 per year
- Annual Retention Payment: £4,000
Senior Social Worker Roles
- Salary: £40,215 – £45,595 per year
- Annual Retention Payment: £3,500
Both full-time and part-time opportunities are available, offering job security, work-life balance, and career progression.
Why Join Us?
Suffolk County Council is committed to supporting and developing social workers. We provide:
Career Growth & Training
- Regular supervision sessions to support professional development.
- Comprehensive training programs tailored to social work careers.
- A structured Career Progression Scheme, ensuring career advancement.
Work-Life Balance & Benefits
- Up to 29 days of annual leave (plus bank holidays, pro rata for part-time).
- 3 additional annual leave days (pro rata for part-time).
- 3 protected CPD (Continuing Professional Development) days per year.
- Relocation package of up to £8,000 for those moving to Suffolk.
- Welcome loan of £2,000 for new social workers.
- Flexible working options to promote work-life balance.
- Free on-site car parking at all council buildings.
Additional Employee Perks
- Competitive Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) membership.
- Health & wellbeing programs to support mental and physical wellness.
- Staff networks for diverse backgrounds, ensuring an inclusive workplace.
- Discounts and perks for travel, lifestyle, and financial services.
Key Responsibilities
As a Children’s Social Worker or Senior Social Worker, you will play a vital role in improving the lives of children, young people, and families. Your duties include:
Core Responsibilities
- Conduct safeguarding assessments under Section 17 and Section 47.
- Manage child protection and child-in-need plans, ensuring timely interventions.
- Work with unaccompanied asylum-seeking children (UASC), supporting their legal and social needs.
- Assist young people transitioning out of care, providing guidance and support.
- Engage with families, schools, and healthcare providers to coordinate care plans.
- Maintain accurate case records in line with regulatory and council standards.
- Collaborate with other professionals to deliver multi-agency support.
Qualifications & Experience Required
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
Essential Requirements
- A recognized social work qualification (degree or equivalent).
- Social Work England registration (or eligibility to apply).
- Experience working in child protection, family support, or social care.
- A valid UK driving license and access to personal transport (or alternative mobility arrangements).
Preferred Experience
- Knowledge of Signs of Safety practice models.
- Experience working in local authority social work teams.
- Background in asylum-seeking and refugee support services.
Teams & Locations Available
We have multiple openings in the following specialized teams:
- Children’s Social Care Teams – Working with families under Section 17 and Section 47 assessments.
- Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children (UASC) Team – Supporting young asylum seekers. (28.5 hours per week, Grade 5 Social Worker)
- Leaving Care Team – Helping young people transition into independent adulthood. (22.5 hours per week, Grade 6 Senior Social Worker)
If you have a location preference in Suffolk, please mention it in your application.
Diversity & Inclusion
Suffolk County Council is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity employment. We encourage applications from underrepresented groups and strive to create an inclusive workplace where all employees can thrive.
We actively promote a culture of respect, collaboration, and continuous learning, ensuring our workforce reflects the communities we serve.
Relocating to Suffolk?
If you’re considering relocating, Suffolk offers a fantastic quality of life, with:
- Beautiful countryside & coastal areas for outdoor activities.
- Affordable housing & strong local communities.
- Excellent schools, healthcare, and transport links.
For more on life in Suffolk, visit Welcome to Suffolk.
How to Apply
To apply for the Children’s Social Worker or Senior Social Worker position:
- Prepare your CV and complete a short online application form.
- Indicate which role, location, and team you’re applying for.
- Submit your application before 11:30 PM on 28 February 2025.
For Informal Inquiries:
- Email: cypsocialworkenquiries@suffolk.gov.uk
- Contact: Steve Blaney, Social Care Service Manager – 07742 505342
Suffolk County Council is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults. DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks or police vetting will be required for all relevant positions.
Join Suffolk County Council & Make a Difference!
This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a dynamic and supportive team that’s transforming the lives of children and families. Whether you are an experienced Social Worker or looking for a Senior Social Worker role, we offer career growth, financial incentives, and a supportive work environment.
Take the next step in your social work career – Apply Today!