Social Worker (Children’s Social Care) in Luton Borough Council

Are you looking for a role that enables you make a key difference in the lives of others?  Do you wish to work for an employer that satisfies this desire? If yes, then the Luton Borough Council have just the right opportunity for you!

Luton Borough Council is the local governing body for the town of Luton in Bedfordshire, England. As a unitary authority, it holds responsibility for a wide range of services typically provided by both county and district councils. Established as a local authority since 1850, Luton Borough Council has undergone several reforms and currently serves a diverse population. With a focus on enhancing the lives of its residents, the council provides services spanning housing, education, social care, and infrastructure development.

The Council’s ambitious Luton 2040 Vision – that no-one in Luton will have to live in poverty – is at the heart of everything they do. They recognise that their people are remarkable, talented, committed and passionate about serving our residents.

The people of Luton depend heavily on this council – and that means their workforce! Are you ready to realise the remarkable and help them deliver their vision?

Position: Social Worker (Children’s Social Care)

Salary: £36,648 – £39,186 a year

Job Type: Permanent (Full Time)

Location: Luton, UK

About the Role

Join the dynamic Children Social Care Team at Luton Borough Council. They currently have opportunities for Social Workers to join them in their Family Safeguarding Service and Family Assessment and Support Service.

The Council is actively seeking passionate Children’s Social Workers to become integral members of our growing and dedicated teams. As a Children’s Social Worker at Luton, you’ll join a supportive learning culture, be able to influence change, challenge others and share your expertise.

Embark on a fulfilling journey in children’s social work by collaborating with children, young people, families, and agencies to provide support and protection. Conduct clear, accurate assessments, coordinate multi-agency approaches, and build positive relationships. Aim for workforce stability and permanency through continuous professional development. The Council’s Career Development Framework supports progression from a Newly Qualified Social Worker to Senior Practitioner, guiding you toward future career goals.

Main Duties

  • Complete clear, accurate and holistic professional assessments of need and risk in respect of children and families using the Department of Education and Luton’s effective support document for children in need and potential significant harm. Taking the lead role to co-ordinate the multi-agency approach to prevent and address child protection issues and children in need.
  • Undertake statutory duties under The Children Act 1989 and other legislation and guidance relating to children and families e.g. care proceedings, arrangements for adoption/permanency, risk assessments and investigations in relation to the protection of children. Including arrangements for obtaining and carrying out Court Orders, attending court as the Council
  • Creating effective SMART plans referring to the Practice Framework, using the appropriate available resources ensuring needs are met through negotiation and consultation with professional colleagues and service users. Promote antidiscriminatory practice and the empowerment of children and families.
  • Build positive relationships with children and their families through promoting    participation and undertaking direct work to ensure that their voices, wishes and feelings are heard.
  • Update and maintain high quality and accurate case files in the council’s social work database, Liquid Logic, ensuring that all key information and plans are recorded within timescales and comply with General Data Protection Regulations. 
  • Provide witness statements for Court when required, accountable to the requirements of both internal/external agencies inline with Luton Borough Council Policies and Procedures.
  • To be responsible for your Continued Professional Development (CPD) and progression through regular check-ins and supervisions. Attending training through the Social Work Academy and Research in Practice.   

Qualifications

  • To join, you’ll need a Dip SW, CQSW or recognised equivalent qualification, along with substantial experience in health or social care.
  • You will also need to be registered with Social Work England. You’ll have a great understanding of the Children Act 1989 and other key legislation.
  • Importantly, you’ll also know how to communicate calmly and effectively with a range of people. This’ll help you to manage a range of situations confidently.

Benefits

  • From 25 to 32 days’ annual leave: linked to length of service and grade
  • Buying annual leave scheme: buy up to 20 days additional annual leave
  • Career Pathways: step up in your career or move into a specialist area
  • Pension scheme: with generous employer contributions of up to 20.2 per cent (at July 2023) and 3x salary death in service grant
  • Generous relocation package: up to £8,000 (subject to eligibility)
  • Employee Assistance Programme: a free, 24/7 confidential counselling and wellbeing support service available to all employees, their partner or spouse and dependent children over 16 still living at home
  • Work/life balance: flexible working options including working from home where possible. We welcome requests for flexible working arrangements including part-time hours and alternative working patterns
  • Training and support: unlimited access to development courses, mentoring and support and clear career pathways
  • Staff offers: includes discounts on your MOT, gym and fitness, restaurants and salons
  • Arriva Travel Club: great value savings on local bus travel

Required Documents

  1. CV/Resume
  2. Cover Letter

Application Process

Interested and qualified candidates should CLICK HERE to apply

Application Deadline

August 5, 2024