Job Description

Ardent Social is proud to partner with Bexley Council to recruit an experienced Social Worker for their Looked After Children (LAC) Team. This is an excellent opportunity to work within a supportive and professional environment, focusing on improving the lives of children in care by ensuring the best outcomes through effective care planning and intervention.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage complex court proceedings and care planning for children in care, ensuring timely and high-quality outcomes.
• Conduct thorough assessments, develop care plans, and review placements to safeguard the wellbeing of looked after children.
• Collaborate with multi-agency teams, carers, and families to ensure the needs of children are met effectively.
• Provide detailed reports, evidence, and statements for court, and attend hearings as required.
• Build strong, trusting relationships with children, ensuring their voice is central to all decisions.
• Carry out statutory visits and reviews, ensuring compliance with legislation and organisational policies.

What We re Looking For:

• Qualified Social Worker with current Social Work England registration.
• Proven experience in court work and care proceedings.
• Strong knowledge of safeguarding legislation and statutory responsibilities for looked after children.
• Ability to manage complex caseloads with confidence and professionalism.
• Must hold a valid UK driving licence and have access to a vehicle for travel across Bexley.

Why Join Ardent Social?

• Competitive pay rates aligned with local authority agreements.
• Hybrid working arrangements with access to Bexley Council Civic Offices (DA6 7AT).
• Opportunity to work within a professional and supportive LAC team.
• Enhance your expertise in court work and care planning for looked after children.

Contract Details:

• Duration: Ongoing, with regular extension reviews.
• Location: Based at Bexley Council Civic Offices, with travel across Bexley.
• Pay Rate: Competitive rates aligned with London Borough agreements.

Make a real difference in the lives of children in care. Apply today through Ardent Social and join Bexley Council s dedicated LAC Team!

Ardent Social is committed to being an equal opportunities employer. We celebrate diversity and ensure no individual is treated less favourably on the grounds of gender, age, disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.