Senior Social Worker – Children’s Services (Fostering)

Senior Social Worker – Children’s Services (Fostering) 
Contract: Full-time – 37 hours per week
Pay Rate: £37 per hour (Umbrella)
Department: Mainstream Support Central Division 1 – Fostering Service
Interview Date: 10th April
About the Role We are currently seeking an experienced and dedicated Senior Social Worker to join our Children’s Services Fostering Team based at County Hall, Preston.
This is a fantastic opportunity to play a key role in supporting children, young people, and families while contributing to high-quality fostering services. You will work within a supportive team environment, managing a varied caseload and ensuring the best possible outcomes for children in care.
Key Responsibilities

• Manage a complex caseload involving children, young people, families, fostering, and adoption work
• Undertake timely and high-quality assessments in line with statutory requirements
• Safeguard children by identifying those in need and at risk of harm
• Prepare reports and participate effectively in court proceedings
• Support, assess, and supervise foster carers
• Chair and contribute to statutory meetings including care planning and reviews
• Work collaboratively with partner agencies to deliver coordinated interventions
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records in line with departmental procedures
• Contribute to service development and support less experienced staff, including ASYE practitioners
• Participate in duty rotas and team responsibilities

Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with current registration with Social Work England
• Minimum 3 years’ experience in a permanent role within a Local Authority
• Experience within a fostering team is highly desirable
• Strong knowledge of safeguarding procedures, legislation, and best practice
• Ability to manage complex cases and work to tight deadlines

Please note:

• Candidates must not have held a permanent or fixed-term position with a Local Authority within the past 12 weeks

What We’re Looking For

• A proactive and resilient practitioner with excellent communication skills
• Strong commitment to achieving positive outcomes for children and families
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently
• Dedication to continuous professional development and learning

Why Join Us?

• Competitive hourly rate
• Supportive and collaborative team environment
• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact within Children’s Services
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities

Apply now to be considered for interview on 10th April.
If you are passionate about improving outcomes for children and have the experience send your CV across to me at Nik.froud@servicecare.org.uk or give me a call on 01772 208964! 
If this role isn’t quite right for you, but you know someone who would be a perfect fit, you can earn a £250 referral bonus for any successful referral