Senior Social Worker

About the Company

Norfolk County Council is dedicated to providing high-quality social care services across the county. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and adults, fostering resilient communities, and supporting individuals to live independent and fulfilling lives. Join a forward-thinking authority where your expertise will make a real difference to the lives of vulnerable people.

Job Description

We are seeking a highly experienced and dedicated Senior Social Worker to join our dynamic team in Norwich. This pivotal role involves managing complex caseloads, providing expert social work assessments, and leading on interventions that safeguard and promote the welfare of service users. You will act as a role model and mentor to less experienced colleagues, contributing to team development and ensuring best practice standards are maintained. Your ability to navigate challenging situations with empathy, professionalism, and robust decision-making will be key to your success and the positive outcomes for those we support.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a complex and diverse caseload of individuals and families requiring social work intervention.
• Conduct comprehensive assessments, including risk assessments, and develop tailored care plans.
• Provide expert advice and guidance to service users, their families, and other professionals.
• Lead on safeguarding investigations, ensuring all actions are compliant with statutory requirements and best practice.
• Supervise and mentor newly qualified social workers or less experienced team members.
• Represent the service in multi-agency meetings, court proceedings, and other professional forums.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of services through feedback, reflective practice, and engagement in development initiatives.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records in accordance with data protection and organisational policies.

Required Skills

• Professional qualification in Social Work (e.g., DipSW, CQSW, BA Hons Social Work, MA Social Work).
• Current registration with Social Work England.
• Significant post-qualifying experience in a frontline social work role, demonstrating a capacity to manage complex cases.
• Proven ability to conduct robust assessments, formulate comprehensive plans, and implement effective interventions.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills, capable of engaging with diverse individuals and professionals.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a sound understanding of relevant legislation and policy frameworks.
• Demonstrated leadership potential and experience in supporting or mentoring colleagues.
• Proficiency in maintaining accurate and detailed records.

Preferred Qualifications

• Post-qualifying award in Social Work (e.g., Practice Educator Award, Approved Mental Health Professional).
• Experience in a specific specialist area relevant to the service (e.g., children's services, adult safeguarding, mental health).
• Familiarity with local authority processes and systems.

Perks & Benefits

• Generous annual leave entitlement.
• Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Comprehensive professional development and training opportunities.
• Supportive team environment with regular supervision and peer support.
• Access to employee assistance programmes and wellbeing initiatives.
• Relocation package available for eligible candidates.

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