Experienced Social Worker - Unaccompanied Asylum Seeking Childrens Team - Ref 6744
- Exeter
- Full Time
- £37,336 - £41,418 per annum
Make an impact where it matters the most – Children’s Social Work in Devon
About the Service
We are on an exciting and ambitious journey of cultural change, focusing on embedding restorative practices and relational ways of working. We believe that the best place for children, including young asylum seekers, is within a supportive environment where their unique needs are understood and met. Our role is to provide high support alongside high challenge to ensure these vulnerable children can thrive.
We take immense pride in our workforce and the positive outcomes we are achieving for children and families in Devon. Our social work teams are dedicated to providing the highest standard of service, supported by our Team Managers in every step of the journey.
About the Role
As an Experienced Social Worker, you will work closely with your skilled social work team to champion high standards of professional practice, particularly for young asylum-seeking children. You will thrive in a high-pressure environment, conducting thorough assessments to ensure consistent and improved outcomes for these children and young people.
In this role, you will be responsible for:
- Holistic Assessments: Conducting comprehensive assessments (including age assessments, initial and risk assessments) of the needs and experiences of young asylum seekers, considering their cultural, emotional, and educational backgrounds.
- Individualised Support (Pathway) Plans: Creating and implementing individualized support plans that address the unique challenges faced by asylum-seeking children, including trauma-informed care and integration into the local community.
- Advocacy: Acting as a strong advocate for young asylum seekers, helping them navigate the complexities of the asylum process, education systems, and access to healthcare.
- Building Relationships: Establishing trusting and respectful relationships with children, families, and other stakeholders, ensuring that the voices of young asylum seekers are heard and valued.
- Collaboration: Working collaboratively with multi-agency teams, including legal representatives, educational institutions, and health professionals, to provide a coordinated approach to support.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Ensuring that all interactions and interventions are culturally sensitive and responsive to the diverse backgrounds of the children you work with.
About You
You will be a passionate advocate for the asylum-seeking children and young people you work with, ensuring each child has an active, up-to-date care plan that reflects their unique circumstances. You will assist young people as they navigate the complexities of transitioning to adulthood in a new country.
You will need to have:
- A social work qualification and registration with Social Work England
- Successfully completed your Assessed and Supported Year in Employment (ASYE)
- Experience working within social care, specifically with young asylum seekers, and in a multi-agency and court environment
- The ability to build effective professional relationships with children, families, and other professionals
- Knowledge and understanding of the legislation, models, and theories relevant to children’s social work, particularly those impacting asylum-seeking children
- A valid UK driving licence and access to a car *Exceptions may apply under the Equality Act
What’s in it for you?
In recognition of your vital contribution, we offer fantastic employee benefits, including:
- 26 days annual leave per year (rising with length of service) plus Bank Holidays
- Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme - more information can be found on the Peninsula Pensions website
- Access to our confidential Employee Assistance Programme – available 24/7 to support you with personal and work life
- Flexible working opportunities, including home-working (subject to the needs of the role)
- Discounts from local and high street retailers through the Devon Discounts scheme
- Free onsite parking.
- Employee Assistance for times when you may need support and a variety of employee well-being services.
If you are considering relocating to Devon, subject to qualifying conditions, we offer a generous relocation allowance. There has never been a better time to make the move!
For an informal discussion about this role, please contact Michael.Anderson@devon.gov.uk
Applications close on 06/10/2024, and applicants will be contacted to arrange interview dates upon shortlisting.
Internal Applicants, please note: If you are an existing DCC employee, please use your iTrent Employee Self Service (ESS) details to log in and apply.
For more information about Working for Devon please visit our Working for Devon page.
- DCC embraces the positive benefits of a diverse workforce and is committed to providing an environment that is inclusive and safe. We welcome applications from people who share our commitment to stop discrimination, challenge inequality and promote diversity across Devon. More information can be found on our Equality and Diversity webpages.
- Happy to Talk Flexible Working - The Council offers flexible working arrangements in terms of when and where people work e.g. hybrid working, part-time, condensed hours etc.
- We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
- This role requires the ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence and fluency in English.
- Personal data we collect from you will be processed in accordance with the Applicant privacy notice.
- For more information about Working for Devon please visit our Working for Devon page.
- This role requires a DBS disclosure.