Social Worker, Children in Care

Social Worker, Children in Care

East Sussex County Council

The Children in Care Team, based at Cavendish House in Hastings, is looking for a socially curious and dynamic Social Worker to specialise in working with children in care. You will primarily work with Children and Young People aged birth to 16 years. The role involves long‑term foster care, adoption, and reunification with birth families. You may also support children through care proceedings and transitions to permanence.

Building relationships with children and young people to promote their development, identity and wellbeing will be key. You will work collaboratively with birth families, carers, prospective adopters and a professional network to progress individual Care Plans and support our young people to achieve their aspirations, including preparing them for independence and adulthood. You will be a passionate advocate for the young people and families and fully committed to making a positive difference.

• A passionate advocate for young people and families, fully committed to making a positive difference.
• Experience of working directly with children and families.
• Experience of completing assessments to form effective plans.
• Knowledge of legal and policy frameworks that inform and mandate social work practice.
• Ability to engage effectively using creativity, compassion and authority to overcome resistance, build relationships and communicate, while maintaining professional boundaries in complex and emotionally challenging situations.

To apply, click the ‘Apply Now’ button (above) and upload your CV and a Supporting Statement. Your Supporting Statement will be used to shortlist, so clearly address how you meet all the criteria in the person specification, drawing on relevant work/life experience, education or personal interests. The main areas to cover include:

• Your work with children and young people.
• How you communicate with others.
• Your application of research or theory in practice.
• Your strong social work leadership skills.

Interviews will take place in person within two weeks of the closing date.

Your starting salary will be pro‑rated if the position is part‑time or term‑time only. Salaries include a time‑limited market supplement (reviewed in July 2026). We also offer a diverse range of benefits – see our benefits page for details.

The role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check or Enhanced check for Regulated Activity, with overseas police checks required if you have lived or worked abroad.

We welcome applications from people requiring sponsorship to work in the UK; please indicate this in your application. If you require reasonable adjustments due to disability to enable full participation in the selection process, please contact the hiring manager.

For an informal discussion about this opportunity, contact Alex Gaweda – a

Seniority level:
Entry level.

Employment type:

Part‑time.

Job function:
Other.

East Sussex County Council is an equal opportunity employer. Your qualifications and experience, including those obtained through any role, will be considered fairly and with equity.