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Join our dedicated team in Southend-on-Sea as a Qualified Social Worker specializing in Fostering for Children. We are seeking an enthusiastic and compassionate individual who is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable children and families. In this role, you will work collaboratively with a diverse team to provide high-quality support and guidance to foster carers and children in care, ensuring their safety, well-being, and development.

Your key responsibilities will include:

Conducting thorough assessments of prospective foster carers and providing ongoing support and supervision. Developing and implementing care plans in partnership with children, families, and other professionals. Monitoring the progress and welfare of children in foster placements, ensuring their needs are met. Providing training and support to foster carers to enhance their skills and knowledge. Maintaining accurate and up-to-date case records and documentation in compliance with local authority policies.

The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications and skills:

A recognized social work qualification (e.g., Degree in Social Work, DipSW, or equivalent). Current registration with Social Work England. Experience in fostering or child protection settings is highly desirable. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective relationships. Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage a varied caseload effectively.

In addition to a competitive salary, we offer a supportive work environment with opportunities for professional development and training. Our team values work-life balance and provides flexible working options. You will also benefit from regular supervision, access to employee well-being programs, and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families in Southend-on-Sea.

If you are passionate about making a difference and meet the essential qualifications, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding opportunity to join our Fostering Team. Together, we can create a brighter future for the children in our care.

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Are you a passionate and dedicated Qualified Social Worker looking for a rewarding opportunity in the Adoption Team? We are seeking a skilled professional to join our team in Southend-on-Sea, where you can make a significant impact on the lives of children and families. This position offers both full-time and part-time options to suit your work-life balance.

As a Qualified Social Worker in the Adoption Team, your key responsibilities will include:

Conducting comprehensive assessments of prospective adopters to ensure suitability. Providing support and guidance to children and families throughout the adoption process. Preparing reports for adoption panels and presenting findings effectively. Collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams to facilitate smooth transitions for children. Maintaining accurate and up-to-date case records in compliance with local authority guidelines.

The ideal candidate will possess the following essential qualifications and skills:

A recognized social work qualification (e.g., CQSW, CSS, or equivalent). Registered with Social Work England. Experience in adoption or child protection services is highly desirable. Strong communication and interpersonal skills to engage effectively with children and families. Ability to work independently and as part of a team, demonstrating excellent organizational skills.

In addition to a competitive salary, we offer a range of benefits including flexible working hours, ongoing professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment. You will also have access to employee assistance programs and a generous annual leave package. Join us in making a difference and help shape the future for children in our community.

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Adults Social Worker | Home to Assess Service | Essex County Council
Rate: from £38 per hour | Hybrid working | Essex locations

Caritas Recruitment are currently recruiting for experienced Adults Social Workers to join Essex County Council's Home to Assess Service.

This is an excellent opportunity for qualified professionals who want to make a genuine difference while benefiting from hybrid working and competitive pay.

About the Role

The Home to Assess Service carries out Care Act assessments for adults discharged from hospital, ensuring they receive the right support at home to maintain or regain independence. You will be working directly with adults, families and carers, helping to put the right support in place so people can live fulfilling lives in their own homes.

What We're Looking For

Qualified Social Worker with SWE registration

Minimum 2 years post-qualified experience in Adult Social Care

Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle

Right to Work in the UK (please note sponsorship is not available)

What's on Offer

£38 per hour (umbrella)

Hybrid working - blend of office, community and home-based work

Supportive team and management structure within Essex CC

Ongoing opportunities with Caritas Recruitment

Apply Today

If you're interested in this role - or would like to register with Caritas for future opportunities - please get in touch:

📞 Call / Text / WhatsApp: Natalie Duckett - 0 7 8 7 9 8 0 3 3 8 3
📧 Email: n.duckett@ caritas-recruitment.com

Caritas Recruitment is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.

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Social Worker - Children in Care, Harlow (Permanent Role)

Salary: £37,185 - £50,081 per annum
Contract: Permanent, Full Time
Location: Harlow
Closing Date: 8th October 2025

Are you ready to join a dynamic Children in Care team where your wellbeing, growth, and creativity are valued as much as the young lives you support? Essex County Council is offering a permanent opportunity for an experienced Social Worker to join our West Essex service.

Why Join Us?

9-day fortnight for full-time frontline Social Workers

Supportive leadership with regular supervision and ad-hoc team support

Systemic, strengths-based and trauma-informed practice at the heart of everything we do

Outstanding training through Essex Social Care Academy (ESCA)

Innovative environment committed to wellbeing, flexibility, and professional development

About the Role:
You will work with children and young people up to 18 years old, whether in foster care, residential placements, or preparing for permanency. Key duties include:

Preparing court reports, care planning, and supporting adoption where required

Developing permanency plans, including SGO and adoption

Visiting children in placement and ensuring their voices are heard

Undertaking life-story work to help young people understand their journey

Supporting family reunification where possible

What We're Looking For:

Qualified Social Worker (CQSW, CSS, DipSW, or Degree) registered with Social Work England

Experience in court work and complex safeguarding

Strong communication, analytical and organisational skills

Proficiency in case recording and IT systems

Flexibility to meet the needs of children, including some evenings/weekends

Full driving licence and access to transport

Why Essex?
As one of the UK's most dynamic local authorities, Essex offers an innovative working culture, strong career pathways, and a commitment to wellbeing and flexible working.

Join us to make a meaningful difference to the lives of children in care.

For more information on this role or for an informal discussion about locum Social Work opportunities across England and Wales please contact Gemma at Caritas Recruitment - g.bridgman @ caritas-recruitment.com / 0 7 3 8 4 5 2 5 2 8 7

Caritas Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

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🌟 Permanent Social Worker - Children with Disabilities (Southend) 🌟
Salary: £37,938 - £43,693 per annum
Location: Southend-on-Sea | Team: Children with Disabilities (CWD)
Contract: Permanent | Ref: 441497 | Working Pattern: Full-time

For an informal discussion regarding this job or any opportunities in Social Work - Locum or Permanent, UK wide - please contact Gemma Bridgman at Caritas Recruitment - 0 7 3 8 4 5 2 5 2 8 7 g.bridgman @ caritas-recruitment.com

Southend-on-Sea City Council is looking for a skilled and compassionate Social Worker to join their Children with Disabilities (CWD) Team on a permanent basis. This role is vital in supporting children and young people with complex needs and their families to lead safe, fulfilling lives.

🚨 Applicants must have direct experience working with children with disabilities.

🔹 Key Responsibilities:

Manage a caseload of children with disabilities requiring statutory support, protection, or care planning.

Carry out assessments, develop child-focused care and support plans, and monitor outcomes.

Work in partnership with families, schools, health services, and other professionals to provide coordinated support.

Attend and contribute to CIN meetings, child protection conferences, and reviews as required.

Ensure all practice is in line with legislation, statutory guidance, and safeguarding procedures.

Champion the rights and voice of children with disabilities in all aspects of your work.

🔹 What We're Looking For:

Qualified Social Worker with current Social Work England registration.

Experience in a Children with Disabilities team or equivalent.

Knowledge of relevant legislation including the Children Act 1989, Care Act, and SEND Code of Practice.

Strong assessment, communication, and partnership working skills.

🔹 What's on Offer:

Competitive salary of £37,938 - £43,693

Supportive team environment with regular supervision

Opportunities for professional development and training

Flexible working arrangements (depending on service needs)

Access to a range of employee benefits and wellbeing support

Make a real difference in the lives of children with disabilities and their families in Southend.

For an informal discussion regarding this job or any opportunities in Social Work - Locum or Permanent, UK wide - please contact Gemma Bridgman at Caritas Recruitment - 0 7 3 8 4 5 2 5 2 8 7 g.bridgman @ caritas-recruitment.com

Caritas Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

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🌟 Permanent Social Worker - Children Looked After (Southend) 🌟

Salary: £37,938 - £43,693 per annum
Plus: £7,500 Retention Payment after 3 years and 1 day
Location: Southend-on-Sea | Team: Children Looked After (CLA)
Contract: Permanent | Ref: 451637 | Working Pattern: Full-time

For an informal discussion regarding this job or any opportunities in Social Work - Locum or Permanent, UK wide - please contact Gemma Bridgman at Caritas Recruitment - 0 7 3 8 4 5 2 5 2 8 7 g.bridgman @ caritas-recruitment.com

Southend-on-Sea City Council is seeking a passionate and experienced Social Worker to join their Children Looked After (CLA) team on a permanent basis. This is a rewarding role supporting children and young people in care to achieve stability, permanency, and positive outcomes.

🚨 Applicants must have previous CLA/LAC experience.
🚗 A full UK driving licence and access to a car are essential.

🔹 Key Responsibilities:

Manage a caseload of Looked After Children, supporting their care, education, and emotional wellbeing.

Complete statutory visits, assessments, care plans, and review reports in line with legislation.

Build and maintain strong, trusting relationships with children, carers, and families.

Work collaboratively with foster carers, IROs, health and education professionals to ensure holistic support.

Prepare court reports and contribute to care proceedings where required.

Promote permanency planning, including long-term fostering and adoption.

🔹 What We're Looking For:

Qualified Social Worker with current Social Work England registration.

Proven experience working in a Children Looked After / LAC team.

Strong understanding of relevant legislation, care planning, and statutory duties.

Must drive and have access to a vehicle.

🔹 What's on Offer:

Competitive salary of £37,938 - £43,693

£7,500 retention payment after 3 years and 1 day

A supportive working environment with regular supervision and development opportunities

Hybrid working arrangements, depending on service needs

Access to training, pension scheme, and other employee benefits

Be part of a compassionate team making a real difference in the lives of children and young people in care.

For an informal discussion regarding this job or any opportunities in Social Work - Locum or Permanent, UK wide - please contact Gemma Bridgman at Caritas Recruitment - 0 7 3 8 4 5 2 5 2 8 7 g.bridgman @ caritas-recruitment.com

Caritas Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

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🌟 Permanent Social Worker - Assessment & Intervention (Southend) 🌟
Salary: £37,938 - £43,693 per annum
Plus: £7,500 Retention Payment after 3 years and 1 day
Location: Southend-on-Sea | Team: Assessment & Intervention
Contract: Permanent | Working Pattern: Full-time

For an informal discussion regarding this job or any opportunities in Social Work - Locum or Permanent, UK wide - please contact Gemma Bridgman at Caritas Recruitment - 0 7 3 8 4 5 2 5 2 8 7 g.bridgman @ caritas-recruitment.com

Southend-on-Sea City Council is looking for a dedicated and skilled Social Worker to join their Assessment & Intervention (A&I) Team on a permanent basis. This is a frontline role working with children and families at the point of referral to deliver timely assessments and impactful interventions.

🚨 Please note: Applicants must have a full driving licence and access to a car.

🔹 Key Responsibilities:

Undertake comprehensive child and family assessments under S17 and S47.

Manage a varied caseload including CIN, CP, and PLO cases.

Carry out direct work with children and families using strengths-based, relationship-focused practice.

Work effectively with multi-agency partners and attend strategy discussions, conferences, and planning meetings.

Prepare high-quality reports for case conferences and court, ensuring children's voices are central to planning.

🔹 What We're Looking For:

Qualified Social Worker with Social Work England registration.

Experience in a frontline assessment or safeguarding team.

Knowledge of relevant legislation, safeguarding thresholds, and statutory processes.

Must be a car driver with access to a vehicle.

🔹 What's on Offer:

Competitive salary of £37,938 - £43,693

Retention payment of £7,500 after 3 years and 1 day

Regular supervision, manageable caseloads, and supportive team culture

Opportunities for ongoing training and career development

Flexible and hybrid working options (subject to service needs)

Be part of a service that values your expertise and supports your professional growth.

👉 Apply today to join Southend's committed and forward-thinking social care team!

For an informal discussion regarding this job or any opportunities in Social Work - Locum or Permanent, UK wide - please contact Gemma Bridgman at Caritas Recruitment - 0 7 3 8 4 5 2 5 2 8 7 g.bridgman @ caritas-recruitment.com

Caritas Recruitment is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.

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🌟 Locum Social Worker - Assessment & Intervention (Southend) 🌟
Rate: £38 per hour | Location: Southend-on-Sea | Contract: Locum | Start: ASAP

For an informal discussion regarding this job or any opportunities in Social Work - Locum or Permanent, UK wide - please contact Gemma Bridgman at Caritas Recruitment - 0 7 3 8 4 5 2 5 2 8 7 g.bridgman @ caritas-recruitment.com

Southend-on-Sea City Council is looking for a skilled and motivated Locum Social Worker to join their Assessment and Intervention Team. This is an excellent opportunity to work in a fast-paced frontline service supporting children and families from initial referral through to planning interventions.

🔹 Key Responsibilities:

Undertake Child and Family Assessments under Section 17 and Section 47 of the Children Act 1989.

Carry out timely interventions, planning, and reviews to ensure children's safety and well-being.

Prepare clear and analytical reports for Child Protection Conferences, Looked After Reviews, and court proceedings.

Engage in multi-agency working, attend strategy discussions, and contribute to care planning.

Work with families to build resilience and reduce risk using strengths-based and relationship-focused practice.

🔹 Essential Requirements:

Qualified Social Worker with current Social Work England registration.

Minimum of 2 years' frontline experience in assessment and intervention or similar teams.

Must have access to a car and hold a full UK driving licence.

Strong understanding of safeguarding legislation, thresholds, and statutory guidance.

🔹 Additional Information:

Rate: £38 per hour (umbrella)

Working Pattern: Monday to Friday, full-time

Flexible/hybrid working available, depending on service needs

Enhanced DBS required

Start Date: ASAP

Be part of a supportive and driven team committed to safeguarding children and making a real difference.

For an informal discussion regarding this job or any opportunities in Social Work - Locum or Permanent, UK wide - please contact Gemma Bridgman at Caritas Recruitment - 0 7 3 8 4 5 2 5 2 8 7 g.bridgman @ caritas-recruitment.com

Caritas Recruitment is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.

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🌟 Locum Social Worker - Child Protection (Southend) 🌟
Rate: £38 per hour | Location: Southend-on-Sea | Team: Child Protection
Start Date: TBC | Contract: Locum | Working Pattern: Full-time

For an informal discussion regarding this job or any opportunities in Social Work - Locum or Permanent, UK wide - please contact Gemma Bridgman at Caritas Recruitment - 0 7 3 8 4 5 2 5 2 8 7 g.bridgman @ caritas-recruitment.com

Southend-on-Sea City Council is seeking an experienced Child Protection Social Worker to join their frontline safeguarding team. This is a high-impact role where you'll work with children and families to reduce risk and improve long-term outcomes.

🚗 A valid driving licence and access to a car are essential.

🔹 Key Responsibilities:

Manage a complex caseload of children subject to Child Protection Plans, Child in Need Plans, and care proceedings.

Undertake statutory assessments, home visits, and direct work with children and families.

Attend and contribute to strategy meetings, child protection conferences, legal planning meetings, and court hearings.

Prepare clear, concise, and evidence-based reports to support safeguarding decisions.

Collaborate closely with partner agencies to deliver effective multi-agency safeguarding interventions.

🔹 Essential Requirements:

Qualified Social Worker with Social Work England registration.

Significant frontline experience in child protection.

Strong knowledge of safeguarding legislation and statutory responsibilities.

Must drive and have access to a vehicle.

🔹 Additional Information:

Rate: £38.00 per hour (umbrella)

Enhanced DBS required

Flexible working may be considered, depending on service needs

Join a committed safeguarding team in Southend and help protect vulnerable children through timely and effective interventions.

For an informal discussion regarding this job or any opportunities in Social Work - Locum or Permanent, UK wide - please contact Gemma Bridgman at Caritas Recruitment - 0 7 3 8 4 5 2 5 2 8 7 g.bridgman @ caritas-recruitment.com

Caritas Recruitment is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.

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🌟 Locum Adoption Social Worker - Southend-on-Sea 🌟
Rate: £38 per hour | Location: Southend | Contract: Locum | Start: ASAP

For an informal discussion regarding this job or any opportunities in Social Work - Locum or Permanent, UK wide - please contact Gemma Bridgman at Caritas Recruitment - 0 7 3 8 4 5 2 5 2 8 7 g.bridgman @ caritas-recruitment.com

Southend-on-Sea City Council is seeking an experienced Locum Adoption Social Worker to join their dedicated adoption service. This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled practitioner to make a real impact in the lives of children and families by supporting all aspects of the adoption journey.

🔹 Key Responsibilities:

Undertake adoption assessments (e.g. PARs - Prospective Adopter Reports).

Provide support to adopters before, during, and after placement.

Contribute to matching processes and adoption panel reports.

Work closely with children's social workers, medical advisors, and legal teams to ensure smooth progression of adoption plans.

Offer post-adoption support, including assessing support needs and providing interventions.

Ensure compliance with relevant legislation including the Adoption and Children Act 2002, and statutory adoption guidance.

Attend and contribute to adoption panels and multi-agency meetings as required.

🔹 Essential Requirements:

Qualified Social Worker registered with Social Work England.

Previous experience in adoption social work is essential.

Strong understanding of adoption processes, legislation, and best practices.

Ability to work independently, manage complex caseloads, and meet statutory timescales.

🔹 Additional Information:

Rate: £38 per hour (umbrella)

Working Pattern: Monday to Friday, full-time

DBS: Enhanced DBS required

Start Date: ASAP

Hybrid working may be available subject to service needs

Join a supportive team in a forward-thinking local authority and help shape brighter futures for children in need of permanent, loving families.

For an informal discussion regarding this job or any opportunities in Social Work - Locum or Permanent, UK wide - please contact Gemma Bridgman at Caritas Recruitment - 0 7 3 8 4 5 2 5 2 8 7 g.bridgman @ caritas-recruitment.com

Caritas Recruitment is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.

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