Salary: £31.80 per hour

Darlington Council is seeking a dedicated Senior Social Worker to join our vital Assessment and Safeguarding Team. This is an exceptional opportunity to take on complex cases, provide expert guidance, and make a profound difference in the lives of children, families, or adults in need.

As a Senior Social Worker in our Assessment & Safeguarding Team, you will be instrumental in:

• Undertaking Complex Assessments:

  • Leading and completing comprehensive, person-centred assessments for individuals and families, including those with intricate needs or high levels of risk.

  • Utilising advanced assessment tools and critical analysis to inform robust care plans and interventions.

  • Applying a thorough understanding of relevant legislation (e.g., Children Act, Care Act) and statutory guidance in all assessment processes.

• Managing High-Risk Safeguarding Cases:

  • Responding to and managing complex safeguarding concerns, including leading Section 47 enquiries (for children) or similar adult safeguarding processes.

  • Developing and implementing effective risk management plans to ensure the safety and well-being of service users.

  • Working proactively to identify and mitigate potential harm.

• Providing Professional Expertise and Guidance:

  • Offering expert advice and support to less experienced team members, sharing knowledge and best practice.

  • Mentoring and guiding newly qualified social workers (NQSWs) where appropriate.

  • Contributing to team discussions, case conferences, and strategy meetings, offering a senior perspective.

• Developing and Implementing Intervention Plans:

  • Formulating, implementing, and reviewing holistic and sustainable care plans that address identified needs and risks.

  • Working creatively with service users, families, and carers to promote their independence and resilience.

  • Ensuring that plans are outcome-focused and regularly reviewed for effectiveness.

• Collaborating and Communicating Effectively:

  • Building and maintaining strong working relationships with internal colleagues and a wide range of external agencies (e.g., police, health, education, housing) to ensure coordinated responses.

  • Producing clear, concise, and analytical reports for various purposes, including court proceedings where necessary.

  • Representing the team and Council in multi-agency forums and professional meetings.

• Maintaining Professional Standards:

  • Adhering strictly to professional ethics, codes of conduct, and the standards set by Social Work England.

  • Committing to continuous professional development and reflective practice.

  • Managing and prioritising a demanding caseload effectively, maintaining accurate and timely records.

Key Requirements:

• You must be a Qualified Social Worker.

• Social Work England registration is essential.

• An updated Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is required.

Randstad Care acts as an employment business when supplying temporary staff and as an employment agency when introducing candidates for permanent employment with a client. Randstad Care is an equal opportunities employer and decisions are made on merits alone.

Did you know that Randstad Care have been awarded a place on the National Clinical Staffing Framework for the NHS? This means we will be able to bring you more opportunities within nursing & midwifery and clinical staffing.