Job Description

We saw that social care reform was coming, and we acted. We transformed our service, restructured our teams, changed how we work with each other and our partners, and we improved.
We believe one simple thing: that everyday counts and everyone matters.
Over the last couple of years, we've been on a journey that has seen Ofsted has our Children's Services as 'Good' with 'Outstanding Leadership', and more recently has inspected our SEND provision (Area full SEND inspection) and how we work with partner agencies (Joint Target Area Inspection). In every inspection Ofsted has recognised our commitment and dedication to delivering the best outcomes for children, young people and families.
But we're ambitious for our children and young people, so our journey continues.
We welcome applications from qualified, experienced, positive and forward-thinking Social Workers wishing to join us here in Southampton. We have some exciting things happening to better support our children and families.
About the team:
You will join an energetic and dynamic team striving to keeping children within their Kinship network. The team consist of Social Workers and Family Practitioners who take on various roles within the Safeguarding Service.
We cover a vast range of services, carrying out assessments in both Public and Private law assessments for court in respect of Special Guardianship and other permanence orders.
Our service links in with almost every aspect of Children's Services, whether that be finding and linking in extended family to support a young person, carrying out Family Group Conferences or providing post Special Guardianship support. We have lead responsibility for Private Fostering and Stepparent Adoption as well as fostering assessments for Kinship carers.
We are committed to continue providing the best service we can for our children and families. Here in Southampton, we have received a 'Good' outcome from Ofsted during our most recent inspection with a grading of 'Outstanding' in respect of leadership and management. We recognise that for workers to be at their best to support families, they need the right support from their leaders in learning opportunities, consistent meaningful supervision, and a positive work environment.
We promote relational practice and believe that positive and open relationships with each other, with our colleague agencies and with our families are essential to helping create change and supporting families.
About the role:
You will be based in a supportive and dynamic team, working in a challenging environment that is fast paced. You will be responsible for:

• Carrying out assessments for potential Kinship carers, whether that be Fostering, Permanence, Private Fostering or Stepparent adoption.
• Learning to complete Special Guardianship Needs Assessments
• Gain a good understanding of the Adoption Special Guardianship Support fund
• Learn how to access therapeutic interventions for young people post Special Guardianship.

As part of this vital role, you may be required to give evidence in Court. You will work closely with our colleagues in the children's social work teams to ensure the best possible outcomes for children
We maintain close links with our colleagues in the area teams such as our Family Help and Family Safeguarding teams as well as our Pathways through care and Fostering Service
We participate in reflecting discussions with other teams to consider creative ways of engaging with families
Essential Requirements:

• Social Work Degree or DIPSW with over 2 years' experience
• Qualified social workers will be registered with Social Work England or proof of registration application
• Working knowledge of the Children Act 1989
• Comprehensive working knowledge of relevant legislation and procedures in the areas of Private Fostering, Special Guardianship and Looked after Children.

What we can offer you:
Salary: The salary band for this role is 41,771 - 46,141. The starting salary is 41,771 with annual progression through the salary bands.
Here at SCC we have a range of different perks and benefits, a few examples can be found below.

• Excellent

with 16.8% employer contribution * Death in service benefit of x3 salary, and optional salary sacrifice shared cost AVC (additional voluntary contribution)

• Generous holiday 25-31 days, based on role and service
• Flexible working options (role-dependent)
• Family-friendly policies - Maternity, Paternity, Adoption, Shared/Unpaid Parental Leave, Time off for Dependents
• Training and development, including coaching and mentoring
• Health and wellbeing support - Employee Assistance Programme, Menopause Pledge, Mental Health First Aiders and access to a variety of staff networks
• Veteran-friendly employer with the Armed Forces Covenant
• Retail discounts and savings through the Southampton City Council benefits platform
• Discounted memberships at local sports and fitness centres
• Sustainable travel benefits - low emission car scheme, cycle to work, season ticket loans
• Employee volunteering scheme with 2 paid days leave to volunteer

For further information on our benefits package please visit:
Contact details for informal discussion:
For an informal chat or further details regarding the role, please contact: Gayle Langhorn, Team Manager, or Paula Weir, Assistant Team Manager,
Recruitment contact details:
Email:
Tel: 023 8083 4033
For more information about this campaign please visit:
For more information about SCC please visit Follow us on social media for updates on our featured jobs and latest news:
Organisation
Southampton City Council
Service Area
N/A
Job Location
Civic Centre
Contract Length
Permanent
Work Hours
Full time 37 hours per week
Salary
41,771 - 46,141 per annum
Special Requirements
Enhanced DBS Check required
Closing Date
01/02/2026
Job Reference
16331
Documents
(PDF, 224.52kb)

Skills Required