About Suffolk County Council
Suffolk County Council (SCC) is a modern, dynamic organization committed to making a difference in the lives of children and young people. We are looking for Children’s Social Workers and Senior Social Workers to join our team and provide exceptional care to children and families across South Ipswich.
We pride ourselves on offering a flexible and supportive work environment where social workers can thrive professionally while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. With competitive salaries, excellent career development opportunities, and a strong emphasis on well-being, we provide the ideal setting for you to advance in your social work career.
Children’s Social Workers & Senior Social Workers (South Ipswich)
Location: Various Locations in Suffolk / Hybrid
Salary: £36,124 – £45,595 per annum (pro rata for part-time)
Retention Payment: Up to £4,000 per year (pro rata for part-time)
Job Type: Full-time or Part-time
Contract: Permanent
Job Roles & Salaries
- Social Workers: £36,124 – £39,513 per annum, plus £4,000 annual retention payment (pro rata for part-time).
- Senior Social Workers: £40,215 – £45,595 per annum, plus £3,500 annual retention payment (pro rata for part-time).
Your Role
As a Children’s Social Worker or Senior Social Worker, you will manage a varied caseload, working with children from pre-birth to 18 years. You will be responsible for:
- Assessments & Care Plans: Undertaking social work assessments and developing care plans for children and families.
- Child Protection: Supporting families under Child in Need and Child Protection planning, ensuring children are safe and supported.
- Court Proceedings: Representing cases in public and private law proceedings, progressing matters through the court system.
Your role will involve working closely with children and families from initial referral through to case closure, ensuring that their needs are met through targeted intervention and support.
The Team
Our team is based at Landmark House in Ipswich, covering the South Ipswich area. The team is composed of professionals with a diverse range of expertise, providing a collaborative environment where you can grow your social work skills. You will work alongside physiotherapists, social workers, and administrative staff, building partnerships and developing your practice across various services.
Key Strengths of the Team:
- Collaboration: Strong partnerships with local services, ensuring holistic support for children and families.
- Supportive Culture: A team atmosphere that encourages professional development and mutual support.
- Career Growth: Opportunities for progression and development within a flexible and evolving work environment.
Training & Development
At SCC, we are committed to your ongoing professional growth:
- Regular Supervision: Structured supervision sessions to guide and support your practice.
- Comprehensive Training: Access to training and professional development opportunities, including Signs of Safety mandatory training.
- Career Progression: A structured career progression scheme to help you grow within the organization.
Additional Benefits
- Generous Leave: Up to 29 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata for part-time), plus 3 additional leave days.
- CPD Days: 3 protected CPD (Continuing Professional Development) days per year.
- Relocation Support: Relocation package of up to £8,000, car leasing scheme, and £2,000 welcome loan for new social workers moving to Suffolk.
- Flexible Working: Opportunities for flexible working to support your health and well-being.
- Car Parking: Free on-site parking at all council buildings.
- Staff Networks: Access to staff networks supporting various life experiences, values, and beliefs.
What You Need
- Relevant Social Work Qualification: A recognized social work degree and Social Work England registration.
- Driving License: A full and current driving license and access to a vehicle (or ability to meet mobility requirements).
- Experience:
- For Social Workers, previous experience working with children and families is essential.
- For Senior Social Workers, you should have proven expertise in managing complex cases and mentoring junior staff.
You can view the full list of job and person specifications below to ensure your skills align with the role.
Why Work for Suffolk County Council?
- Supportive Environment: We understand the challenges of social work and offer regular supervision, professional development, and a strong team culture.
- Work-Life Balance: Enjoy flexible working hours and a commitment to supporting your health and well-being.
- Inclusive Workplace: We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and supported.
- Make an Impact: Join an organization that is passionate about improving the lives of children and young people in Suffolk.
