Principal Social Worker

Company: Wiltshire Council
Apply for the Principal Social Worker
Location: Trowbridge
Job Description:

We are looking for an exceptional and experienced social work leader to take on the role of Principal Social Worker, someone who is passionate about improving outcomes for children, young people and families, and who can influence practice at a strategic level.

This is a unique opportunity to join a forward‑thinking local authority on a strong improvement journey, working as part of an extended leadership team within Families and Childrens Services. You will shape the future of social work practice, drive innovation, and work collaboratively with senior leaders, partners and national networks. You will benefit from working in a supportive, high‑performing environment that values continuous learning, professional development and career progression, while contributing to meaningful change across a large and ambitious organisation.

In this role, you will lead the development and implementation of professional standards, practice frameworks and workforce development strategies. You will oversee quality assurance and performance improvement activity, using data, audit and feedback to drive excellence in practice. You will provide expert advice at a senior level, influence multi‑agency safeguarding arrangements, and ensure learning is translated into measurable service improvement.

You will be a qualified social worker registered with Social Work England, with significant senior leadership experience in childrens services. You will bring expert knowledge of safeguarding and national policy, a proven track record of leading change across complex systems, and strong leadership, analytical and influencing skills.

If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for driving high‑quality practice and making a lasting difference, we encourage you to apply.

Why us?

Wiltshire Council is a friendly, welcoming place to work, with a ‘One Council’ ethos. Find out more about Our Identity, staff networks, and employee benefits on our careers page – jobs.wiltshire.gov.uk.

Our hybrid working model means office staff are on site for at least half their hours, community‑based staff carry out at least half their admin time in a workplace, and customer‑facing roles work entirely from their service location.

We are committed to creating a workplace where positive relationships thrive and everyone feels engaged, supported and able to do their best. We do not tolerate discrimination, bullying or harassment. Everyone is expected to promote a culture of inclusion, dignity, trust and respect, guided by our vision and Our Identity.

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Posted: July 10th, 2026