Job Description

This is a great opportunity to join our Permanence Service as a qualified social worker, supporting children in care from the conclusion of care proceedings through every stage of their journey. You'll have the chance to build long-term, meaningful relationships with children, providing consistency and trusted support over the years.



Your role will include:


Developing and delivering care plans tailored to each child's needs Working closely with our fostering service and commissioning team to identify permanent homes Supporting stability for children in their homes Partnering with the Virtual School and the Children in Care Health Team to help children achieve their full potential

We are committed to ensuring that every child in our care is supported to thrive, no matter where they live. While most of our children are based locally or in neighbouring areas, some are placed in other parts of the country. You'll play a key role in ensuring they receive the same high standard of service wherever they are.

About you

You'll be a registered and qualified social worker with a genuine commitment to children in care and a focus on promoting their best interests. We're looking for colleagues who can offer stability in professional relationships and share our dedication to long-term, high-quality support.



We are looking for someone who:


Is registered with Social Work England Can build strong, lasting relationships with children and young people Is committed to delivering a consistent and high-quality service Is willing and able to travel nationwide, including occasional overnight stays

In return, you will benefit from:


Supportive managers and regular supervision Flexible working arrangements Opportunities to develop your skills and progress your career


This role is full time at 37 hours but flexible working will be considered.



For an informal conversation or if you have any questions please contact Catherine Philips, catherine.philips@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk



This post requires significant travel. You must have a vehicle (or transport we deem suitable) available for use as needed.



This post involves working with children and/or vulnerable adults and/or having access to significant information about them. It will be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service check. See our policy on the employment of ex-offenders.



See our policy on safeguarding children and young people.



See the children's social worker framework.



You must:


have a degree in social work/Occupational Therapy or equivalent be able to fulfil the travel requirements of the post have the right to work in the UK

Friends and Family Referral Scheme

The friends and family referral scheme applies to this post. If an employee recommended this post to you mention them when asked on your application form. They'll give you all the information you need.



Employees can share this advert by using the button links alongside the job title.

Relocation expenses package

A generous relocation package is payable, of which up to 8,000 (of HMRC eligible elements) are free of tax. We can offer you help to move whether you are looking to buy or rent, depending on your circumstances.



Our package includes:


an initial advance of up to 2,500 payable when you start help towards fees associated with buying/selling (up to 6,500) an option to receive help towards your rent or mortgage in the first two

Friends & Family Referral Scheme

The friends and family referral scheme applies to this post. If an employee recommended this post to you, please make sure to mention them when applying.



Employees can share this advert by using the button links alongside the job title.

Relocation expenses package

A generous relocation package is payable, of which up to 8,000 (of HMRC eligible elements) are free of tax. We can offer you help to move whether you are looking to buy or rent, depending on your circumstances.



Our package includes:


an initial advance of up to 2,500 payable when you start help towards fees associated with buying/selling (up to 6,500) * an option to receive help towards your rent or mortgage in the first two years