About the role
We are seeking a passionate and committed Fostering Social Worker to join Dorset Council’s fostering service. You will receive regular supervision, high‑quality training, and professional development opportunities. Our service is committed to a therapeutic approach and is implementing the Mockingbird Family Model.
You will play a key role in ensuring that children cared for by Dorset Council remain close to their families and communities and receive excellent care from well‑supported Kinship Foster Carers and Special Guardians.
Responsibilities
- Undertake kinship assessments focussing on fostering and special guardianship, in accordance with council policies.
- When arrangements include children/young people living under Reg 24, fulfil the role of the Kinship support social worker.
- Prepare and present reports to court and to fostering panel, including attending evidence in legal proceedings as required.
- Present mandatory training during the assessment process.
- Work flexibly, including hybrid work outside the office.
Qualifications and Experience
- Qualified social worker, registered with Social Work England (minimum three years post‑qualification experience desirable).
- Clear enhanced DBS check.
- Full, clean driving licence and ability to travel across Dorset and wider when necessary.
- Strong organisational and communication skills with ability to meet deadlines and produce detailed written reports.
- Experience working with foster carers in a statutory social care setting, with sound understanding of child care legislation and safeguarding practice.
- Can create an environment where social work practice can flourish and where carers feel supported and valued.
Essential Criteria
- Have a degree in social work or equivalent.
- Registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
- Must be able to fulfil the travel requirements of the post.
Other Requirements
- Full‑time role at 37 hours per week.
- Significant travel required; must have a vehicle or suitable transport available.
- Subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service check.
- See policies on safeguarding children and young people, adult safeguarding and ex‑offender employment.
Contact
For additional information, contact Nicola.Meakin@Dorsetcouncil.gov.uk.
Equal Opportunity
We welcome applications from everyone and are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. If you declare a disability and meet the essential criteria for the role, we will offer you an interview.
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