Directions Team Social Worker X3

About Us

North Somerset Council is committed to providing high-quality services to our community. We are committed to creating a fair, green, and more inclusive environment for all our residents. Join us and contribute to making a positive impact on our community.

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Social Worker to join our Children’s Services – Initial Directions Team.

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and families? We are looking for a dedicated and skilled Children’s Assessment Social Worker to join our dynamic and supportive Initial Directions Team. This is a vital front‑line role where you will be the first point of contact for children and families in need of support and protection.

As part of our Children’s Services, you will carry out statutory assessments under the Children Act 1989, including Section 17 and Section 47 enquiries. You will work closely with families, schools, health professionals, and other agencies to assess risk, identify needs, and develop robust plans that promote the safety and well‑being of children.

• Undertake timely and high‑quality assessments of children and families.
• Make evidence‑based decisions to safeguard children and promote positive outcomes.
• Work collaboratively with multi‑agency partners to ensure coordinated support.
• Prepare clear, concise reports for child protection conferences, legal proceedings, and reviews.
• Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date case records using electronic systems.
• Participate in regular supervision and contribute to team development.

We are seeking a qualified and registered social worker with experience in statutory children’s services. You will have a sound understanding of child development, safeguarding legislation, and assessment frameworks. You’ll be confident in managing risk, making decisions under pressure, and building effective relationships with children and families.

• Social Work qualification (Degree or Diploma)
• Registration with Social Work England
• Experience in child protection and statutory assessments
• Strong communication, analytical, and organisational skills
• Ability to work flexibly and manage competing priorities

• Experience in court work and report writing
• Familiarity with Signs of Safety or similar strengths‑based approaches
• Knowledge of local authority procedures and systems

This position is exempt under the provisions of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions) Order 1975 and is subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check.

At North Somerset Council, we offer a hybrid working environment based on four distinct work styles. Depending on the role and personal circumstances, you will fall into one of these categories. However, please note that during the induction period, it may be necessary to spend more time in the office to support your learning and development. We are flexible and open to discussions about your preferred working style, and if you wish to be in the office more frequently, this can be negotiated.

This role falls into the category of which means you can expect to work in the following way:

2‑3 days in the office

• Works both from home and the office, depending on the task at hand.
• Training is provided to help balance work‑life and manage time effectively, with an emphasis on communication for team touchpoints and planning in‑office days for collaboration.

At North Somerset Council, we value our employees and provide a supportive and inclusive work environment. We offer:

• Competitive salary and benefits
• Flexible working arrangements
• Local Government Pension
• Opportunities for professional development
• Inclusive Staff groups including Carers, Disabled, LGBTQ+, REACH (Race, Ethnicity, and Cultural Heritage), and Young Staff Forums
• Opportunity to purchase up to an additional 10 days annual leave each year
• Dedicated in‑house Wellbeing Team
• Salary sacrifice Cycle to Work and Electric Vehicle schemes

Further details of our excellent rewards package can be found in our Benefits booklet.

If you share our vision and values and are ready to make an…