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An exciting opportunity is available for a Senior Social Worker to join a Children in Our Care team in Middlesbrough. You will work with children and young people who are looked after, helping them achieve positive outcomes and ensuring their voices, wishes and feelings remain central to all decisions.

You will manage a varied and complex caseload, completing high-quality assessments and developing, reviewing and implementing care plans that promote safety, stability and permanence. Your responsibilities will include undertaking statutory visits, contributing to reviews, supporting contact arrangements, preparing reports and presenting information at meetings and court hearings where required. You will work closely with foster carers, residential staff, families, schools, health professionals and other partner agencies to ensure coordinated support.

As a Senior Social Worker, you will contribute to the development of practice within the team by supporting colleagues, sharing knowledge and providing guidance on complex cases. You may also be expected to assist with the induction and mentoring of less experienced social workers and take an active role in improving services for children in care. Accurate recording, effective time management and compliance with relevant legislation, policies and safeguarding procedures will be essential.

Applicants must hold a recognised Social Work qualification and current registration with Social Work England. You should have substantial post-qualifying experience in children’s social care, including work with looked-after children, care planning, safeguarding and permanence. We are seeking someone who can demonstrate sound professional judgement, strong analytical and report-writing skills, and the confidence to make difficult decisions in the best interests of children. A collaborative approach, resilience and a commitment to anti-discriminatory practice are essential. The ability to travel to undertake visits and attend meetings across the area is also required.