Lead Locum Social Worker – Youth Safeguarding

My Social Work News; Kingston upon Thames, Richmond, London Borough of Hillingdon; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job description

Role: Locum Social Worker – Children’s Services

Team: SHIFT Guide Team

Location: Kingston & Richmond, UK

Hourly Rate: £TBC / Competitive

Contract: Full-Time / Part-Time, Ongoing

Join the SHIFT Guide Team in Kingston & Richmond as a Social Worker specialising in supporting young people at risk of crime, exploitation, or serious harm. This is a unique and impactful opportunity within Children’s Services to work creatively and therapeutically with vulnerable young people, helping them redirect their futures through proactive, evidence-based interventions.

What You Will Do

Hold responsibility for up to six young people at any given time, each involved in or at risk of exploitation or serious offending.

Deliver bespoke, dynamic interventions using the Breaking Cycles framework to promote positive lifestyle changes.

Act as the lead statutory Social Worker, ensuring all safeguarding and legal responsibilities are met.

Use systemic, trauma-informed, and evidence-based tools to build strong relationships and motivate young people.

Manage and allocate personalised budgets to support goal-setting and engagement.

Provide flexible support—meeting young people in homes, schools, or community settings as needed.

Work collaboratively with families, multi-agency partners, and professional networks to ensure holistic care.

Contribute to weekly practice discussions, reflective sessions, and service development.

Perks and Benefits

Full-Time / Part-Time: Choose a schedule that aligns with your lifestyle and commitments.

Competitive Hourly Pay: Enjoy strong locum rates with weekly pay.

Professional Development: Access ongoing training and opportunities to enhance your practice.

Collaborative Environment: Work in a forward-thinking, supportive, multi-disciplinary team.

Meaningful Impact: Play a key role in transforming the lives and futures of vulnerable young people.

About You

Qualified Social Worker with registration via Social Work England.

Experience supporting young people facing complex risks, including exploitation, trauma, or offending behaviour.

Confident using systemic and trauma-informed approaches.

Creative, resilient, and passionate about youth justice and safeguarding.

Able to work flexibly and collaboratively in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Why Kingston & Richmond?

Kingston and Richmond offer an excellent blend of city access and riverside tranquillity. With scenic parks, cultural attractions, shops, cafes, and outstanding transport links, the area provides a fantastic setting both professionally and personally. Expect a welcoming community and an environment that supports growth, wellbeing, and work-life balance.

Working with Sanctuary Personnel

Sanctuary Personnel is a trusted, award-winning social work agency rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot with over 1,000 reviews. We are committed to securing the best roles, highest rates, and ongoing support tailored to your skills and experience.

Apply Now

Start your journey with Social Worker