Social Worker – Children’s

To work within a Young People’s Social Work Team, supporting children in care to transition into adulthood. To ensure high-quality assessment, pathway planning and intervention that promotes safety, stability, independence and positive long-term outcomes for young people, including those with complex needs and vulnerabilities. To provide statutory social work functions for young people aged 16–25, ensuring compliance with legislation, regulations, policies and practice standards relating to children in care, leaving care and safeguarding responsibilities. To deliver an outcome-focused service that supports young people to develop the skills, resilience and networks required for adulthood, while ensuring resources are used effectively and the reputation of the Service and Council is maintained. MAIN DUTIES Practice Ensure the Council meets its statutory responsibilities towards looked after children, eligible, relevant and former relevant young people, in accordance with relevant legislation, regulations, policies and procedures. Safeguard young people, manage risk and promote positive outcomes, particularly where there are complex needs relating to exploitation, mental health, offending, homelessness, family breakdown, substance misuse or vulnerability in the community. Ensure assessments, pathway plans and risk assessments are comprehensive, analytical and outcome-focused, drawing upon all available information to inform decision-making and planning. Ensure all young people have high-quality Pathway Plans that reflect their wishes and feelings and effectively prepare them for adulthood, including education, employment, training, accommodation, health and support networks. Effectively transition planning with Adult Social Care, health services, housing providers, education settings and other partner agencies where ongoing support into adulthood is required. Ensure young people are supported to develop practical independent living skills, including budgeting, managing tenancies, accessing healthcare, maintaining relationships and engaging with education, employment or training opportunities. Support effective accommodation planning, ensuring young people access safe and suitable placements and that transitions to semi-independent, independent living or higher education are carefully planned and managed. Ensure the voice of the young person remains central to all assessments, planning and interventions, promoting participation and empowering young people to make informed choices about their future.