Social Worker - Children in Care

Fosterbradford; Bradford; On-site; GBP 38,000 - GBP 47,000; Full time

Job summary

A local children and families trust in Bradford is seeking a qualified Social Worker to support children in care. This role will involve collaborating with families, advocating for children's voices, and developing tailored care plans. An ideal candidate should have a DIPSW or equivalent, be registered with Social Work England, and possess excellent communication and report writing skills. The position offers competitive salary and a range of employee benefits including enhanced annual leave and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Retention Payment

Enhanced annual leave

Local Government pension

Access to Occupational Health

Confidential counselling services

Qualifications

• Registered with Social Work England as a qualified social worker.
• Full UK driving license and access to a vehicle.
• Experience managing a caseload in a statutory environment.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with partners for children’s needs.
• Support and advocate for children in care.
• Undertake comprehensive assessments and develop child-led plans.
• Monitor and review children’s care progress.

Skills

Relationship building

Report writing

Communication

Problem solving

Education

DIPSW or equivalent qualification

Job description

# Social Worker - Children in Care## Job IntroductionWorking for the Bradford Children and Families**About the Role** We are looking for talented individuals to join our dedicated team in Bradford to help shape the future of young lives.Bradford Children and Families Trust has restructured its Children in Care service to span ages 0-18, creating three new teams, totalling 10 children in care teams providing greater continuity and better outcomes for children.Bradford is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of community. You'll be part of a supportive network of professionals dedicated to improving the lives of children.As we continue to grow and evolve, now is the perfect time to join us. Our recent Ofsted report acknowledges our progress, with improvements exceeding expectations ahead of time.Our social work senior leadership team is permanent and committed to providing stability and continuity within the organisation. Their consistent presence ensures that our strategic vision and are upheld, fostering a reliable and supportive environment for both staff and the children in our care. Our approach is rooted in restorative and relational practice, fostering trust, mutual respect, and meaningful relationships with children, families, and professionals.**You’ll also:*** Collaborate with partners, identifying what children and their families need to make lasting positive change, and support children and young people to achieve permanence - whether this be in the care of the Trust, reunification with their parents or extended family.* Support and advocate for children in care, ensuring their voices are heard in all decision making.* Undertake comprehensive assessments and work collaboratively with families to develop plans that are led by their strengths, needs, and aspirations.* Develop and implement care plans tailored to each child's needs.* Monitor and review the progress of children in care, making adjustments to care plans as needed.* Provide emotional and practical support to children, helping them navigate challenges and build resilience.* Work to achieve permanency and outstanding outcomes for children and young people through relationship-based practice.**To be successful in this role you will need:*** A DIPSW or equivalent qualification and are registered with the Social Work England as a qualified social worker.* A full UK driving licence and have access to a vehicle for work purposes - adjustments can be considered for candidates with a disability.* Expertise in managing the delivery of quality outcomes for children and young people.* An ability to build strong relationships with children, their families, colleagues and partner agencies.* An ability to write high-quality reports and assessments and analyse information effectively.* Experience of managing a caseload in a statutory setting, with ability to problem solve, negotiate and manage conflict.* Excellent communication and collaboration skills, for positive engagement with children and families and productive relationship building in a multi-agency environment.**You’ll also be joining an organisation that truly values its people, offering a range of benefits designed to support your wellbeing, growth, and work-life balance, including:*** Retention Payment: You will be eligible for our annual retention payment, paid in 12 monthly instalments. This is non contractual (reviewed annually)* Enhanced annual leave entitlement: 31 days rising to 34 with service (plus bank holidays)* Excellent local Government pension* Competitive salary and pay progression structure* Supportive carer and parental policies* Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave* Access to Occupational Health and confidential counselling services* Supportive staff networks* Access to discounts, including cost of living support* Professional development/support and opportunities career progressionBradford Children and Families Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all employees to share this commitment. If shortlisted, you will be required to disclose relevant information regarding criminal history prior to interview. A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check including a check against the Children’s barred list, will be carried out on preferred candidates.To arrange an informal discussion, please contact Carly Turpin on [e-mail]. **Closing Date: 01 March 2026**Trust offers the opportunity to work with some great people who are passionate about delivering change in a city whose culture offers as much diversity as it’s geography. You can make a real difference to families and children and be an active part in delivering the service Bradford families should receive.The following content displays a map of the job's location.| OpenStreetMap contributors### Social Worker - Children in Care* **Salary** PO1-3, SCP 27-35, £38,220 - £46,142 per annum + £3000 Retention Bonus* **Job Reference** bradfordcft/TP/670/480* **Contract Type** Full Time / Permanent* **Closing Date** 1 March, 2026* **Job Category** Corporate Parenting* **Location** Bradford, United Kingdom* **Posted on** 5 February, 2026