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Social Worker - Fostering Team

Wigan Council | Up to £35 per hour

Are you an experienced and dedicated Social Worker with a passion for fostering and ensuring the best outcomes for children in care? Wigan Council is seeking a highly motivated individual to join our dynamic Fostering Team. This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in supporting our foster carers and the children and young people they care for.

We are looking for someone with a strong understanding of the challenges and complexities faced by children in care, and a commitment to providing stable and nurturing environments.

What you'll do:

In this crucial role, you will be responsible for a varied and impactful caseload, including:

* Working directly with Children in Care Social Workers, collaborating closely to ensure seamless transitions and effective care plans for children placed in foster care.

* Utilising your experience in children in care to provide expert guidance and support to foster carers and young people.

* Leading on care planning for children within foster placements, ensuring plans are child-centred, reviewed regularly, and meet their evolving needs.

* Managing complex situations, including involvement in placement with parents assessments and support plans, where appropriate.

* Developing and reviewing pathway plans for young people transitioning from care, ensuring they are well-prepared for independence and future success.

* Providing specialist support to separated young people, understanding their unique needs and helping them navigate their journey.

* Undertaking and supporting life story work, helping children and young people understand their past and build a sense of identity.

* Maintaining accurate and comprehensive records using Liquid Logic, our electronic case management system.

* Undertaking fostering assessments and reviews as required.

* Providing ongoing supervision and support to approved foster carers.

What we're looking for:

* A recognised Social Work qualification (e.g., DipSW, CQSW, BA Hons Social Work, MA Social Work).

* Current registration with Social Work England.

* Significant experience working as a Social Worker within Children in Care services, or a Fostering Team.

* Demonstrable experience in care planning, pathway planning, and undertaking life story work.

* A strong understanding of the issues facing separated young people and how to support them.

* Proficiency in using electronic case management systems, ideally Liquid Logic.

* Excellent assessment, analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills.

* The ability to work autonomously and as part of a team, managing a diverse caseload effectively.

* A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

What we offer:

* A competitive pay rate of up to £35 per hour.

* The opportunity to work within a supportive and dedicated Fostering Team at Wigan Council.

* A chance to make a real difference in the lives of children and young people in care.

* Opportunities for continuous professional development and training.

If you are a highly skilled and compassionate Social Worker with the experience and passion to excel in our Fostering Team, we encourage you to apply