About the Role:
Our client is seeking a dynamic and experienced Social Work Team Manager to lead the Children in Care Team. This vital role involves overseeing the care and protection of children who are in the local authority’s care, ensuring that their needs are met through effective management of social work practice and delivery of high-quality services. As Team Manager, you will provide leadership, support, and direction to a dedicated team of social workers, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements and the highest standards of care.
You will play a key role in developing and implementing strategic initiatives aimed at improving outcomes for children in care. This position requires strong leadership skills, a commitment to safeguarding, and a passion for promoting the welfare and well-being of vulnerable children.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage the Children in Care Team, providing clear direction and support to social workers to ensure effective service delivery and compliance with statutory requirements.
- Oversee the assessment, planning, and review processes for children in care, ensuring that their needs are central to all decisions and that appropriate interventions are implemented.
- Supervise and support social workers in managing complex cases, providing guidance on best practice and ensuring high standards of social work practice are maintained.
- Conduct regular team meetings and individual supervision sessions to promote reflective practice, encourage professional development, and address any challenges faced by team members.
- Ensure that all care plans and reviews are completed in a timely manner and that they reflect the best interests of the child, in line with the Children Act (1989) and Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018).
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with partner agencies, including health, education, and voluntary sector organisations, to ensure a coordinated and holistic approach to supporting children in care.
- Monitor and evaluate the team’s performance against local authority targets and national standards, using data and feedback to drive improvements in service delivery.
- Ensure that safeguarding procedures are effectively implemented, with a proactive approach to identifying and managing risks to children in care.
- Provide expert advice and support to social workers and other professionals in relation to legislation, policies, and best practices related to children in care.
- Contribute to the development and implementation of policies and procedures that promote best practice within the team and the wider organisation.
- Participate in case conferences and other multi-agency meetings, advocating for the needs and wishes of children in care and ensuring their voices are heard.
- Engage in continuous professional development, keeping abreast of changes in legislation and policy affecting children in care, and ensuring the team is well-informed and supported.
- Represent the local authority in court proceedings as required, providing evidence and expert testimony on behalf of the local authority.
- Foster a positive team culture that encourages collaboration, innovation, and high morale among team members.
About You:
The ideal candidate will be a highly motivated and experienced social work manager with a strong background in children’s services. You will have a deep understanding of the challenges faced by children in care and the ability to lead a team in delivering high-quality services. Your commitment to safeguarding and improving outcomes for vulnerable children will drive your work in this important role.
- Qualified Social Worker with a degree in Social Work (or equivalent qualification) recognised by Social Work England.
- Current registration with Social Work England.
- Significant experience in children’s social care, with a strong focus on managing cases involving children in care.
- Previous experience in a management or leadership role, with a proven track record of effectively supervising and supporting social work staff.
- Strong knowledge of child protection legislation and best practices, including the Children Act (1989), Care Act (2014), and Working Together to Safeguard Children (201>.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with children, families, and professionals.
- Proven ability to manage complex cases and make informed decisions under pressure.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on achieving positive outcomes for children.
- A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
- Experience of working in a multi-agency environment, collaborating with various partners to support children and families.
- A proactive approach to continuous professional development and reflective practice.
- Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle for work purposes.
What’s in it for You?
- The opportunity to lead a dedicated team in providing vital services to children in care and making a significant difference in their lives.
- Access to high-quality supervision and ongoing professional development tailored to your role as a team manager.
- A competitive salary and benefits package, including flexible working options and a generous annual leave allowance.
- A supportive and collaborative working environment where your leadership will be valued and your contributions will directly impact the quality of care provided.
Why Join the Team?
As a Social Work Team Manager in the Children in Care Team, you will play a critical role in safeguarding and promoting the well-being of some of the most vulnerable children in society. This position offers the chance to develop your management skills while making a lasting impact on the lives of children and their families. If you are passionate about children’s services and committed to achieving positive outcomes, this could be the perfect role for you.
How to Apply:
If you are an experienced social work manager with a passion for leading teams and supporting children in care, we encourage you to apply for this role.
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