Social Worker, Family Advocacy & Support Services

About the role

As a Social Worker working in the Birth to Settled Adulthood team, you will be part of a supportive culture focused on shared learning and reflective practice. The service aims to improve support for children and young people with complex needs or disabilities as they grow into adulthood, ensuring smooth transitions into adult services by age 25.

You will work with disabled children with severe and complex needs, including Autism Spectrum conditions, based on the eligibility criteria set by Dorset Council.

The team conducts child and family assessments of disabled children and their families, which includes:

• Working with families to address safeguarding concerns
• Working with children in care

If an assessment identifies additional support needs for wellbeing and functioning related to a disability, ongoing support may be provided through child‑in‑need planning, short breaks out of the home, or direct payment services.

The team also includes Direct Payment and Family Help Services, comprising family workers and a paediatric occupational therapy service, to support children who have eligible needs but may not require a Social Worker directly.

Much of the work is multidisciplinary, requiring coordination with health professionals, SEN case workers, specialist schools, and other therapeutic practitioners. Collaboration with adult services ensures successful transition into adulthood for young people.

• Degree in Social Work and registration with Social Work England
• Ability to fulfil travel requirements of the post
• Right to work in the UK

This post is based in the East and Purbeck area, with the office in Wareham. Significant travel is required; a suitable vehicle or transport must be available.

Flexible working arrangements may be considered subject to service needs. In‑person attendance at team and service meetings, as well as other statutory meetings, is expected.

• Part‑time role at 30 hours per week
• Access to a range of benefits and support
• Training and development opportunities to advance your career

We are a Disability Confident Employer and encourage applications from all backgrounds. The council is committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation.

• rachel