Job Description
Social Worker – Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children (UASC) Team
Where: Suffolk County Council, Constantine House, Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 2DH – Hybrid
Pay: £36,124 – £39,513/year (pro rata) + up to £4,000 retention bonus (pro rata)
Hours: 28 hours/week, Permanent
Closing Date: 11:30 PM, 31 March 2025
Hey, Want to Change Lives?
At Suffolk County Council, we’re not your average bunch. We’re a lively, forward-thinking crew that’s always adapting to support our community—and we’re passionate about giving kids and young people the care they deserve. We know that to do this right, our Social Workers need to feel supported too. That’s why we’ve built a place where you can thrive, grow, and still have a life outside work. Ready to reimagine what social work could feel like?
Your Role – A Big Heart for Big Impact
As a Social Worker in our Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children (UASC) team, you’ll be there for young people up to age 18 who’ve arrived in Suffolk—either on their own or through the National Transfer Scheme. Here’s what you’ll dive into:
- Manage a caseload with care—think Child in Care reviews, PEP assessments, statutory visits, court reports, age assessments (we’ll train you!), and Section 47 enquiries.
- Get appointments sorted with immigration solicitors, schools, and health pros—making sure every kid’s needs are met.
- Build real, trusting bonds with these young people, keeping them at the center of everything you do to spark change and brighter futures.
- Link up with foster carers or housing providers to keep things smooth and supportive.
Our Team – A Countywide Family
We’re a close-knit, countywide squad, juggling the usual Child in Care duties plus the extra layer of guiding our young people through asylum applications and immigration matters. At 18, we pass the baton to our personal advisors who stick with them up to 25, depending on what they need.
How We’ll Lift You Up
Social work’s no walk in the park—we get it. That’s why we’ve got your back with:
- Regular supervision to chat things through and keep you steady.
- Awesome training to sharpen your skills.
- A clear career path (check our Progression Scheme!) to help you grow.
The Good Stuff
- Up to 29 days off + bank holidays (pro rata) + 3 extra leave days and 3 CPD days.
- A relocation package up to £8,000, £2,000 welcome loan, and car leasing if you’re new to Suffolk.
- Free parking, flexible hybrid work (50/50 home/office), and a big focus on your wellbeing.
- A warm induction with must-do Signs of Safety training.
- Staff networks to connect over shared experiences or interests.
- Pension perks, travel discounts, and more—dig into it at careers.suffolk.gov.uk.
What You Bring
- A social work qualification + Social Work England registration.
- A full UK driving license and your own wheels (or another way to get around that works).
- Passion, grit, and a knack for making a difference—check the Job and Person Profile for the full scoop!
Who We Are
We’re all about possibility and big ideas at Suffolk County Council. We want everyone—our team, our kids, our community—to be their best selves. Diversity? It’s our strength. We’re proud to reflect the people we serve and welcome you, especially if you’re from an underrepresented group (see our Workforce Equality Report!).
Curious?
- Peek at a day in the life: suffolkjobsdirect.org
- Hear from our team: suffolkjobsdirect.org
- Explore our work: careers.suffolk.gov.uk
- Fall in love with Suffolk: visitsuffolk.com
UK folks needing visa sponsorship: It’s possible—let’s chat about it if you’re interested!
How to Jump In
Read the Job and Person Profile and Progression Scheme (linked below), then send us your CV and a short online form—tell us you’re applying for the UASC team in Ipswich! Internal folks, grab the Statement of Interest form and email it to cypsocialworkenquiries@suffolk.gov.uk.
[Social Worker JPP](docx link)
[Progression Scheme](pdf link)
[Statement of Interest](docx link) – internal only
Questions? Email cypsocialworkenquiries@suffolk.gov.uk or call Steve Blaney at 07742 505342 for a friendly chat.
A Final Note
We’re dead serious about keeping kids, young people, and vulnerable adults safe—DBS checks are part of the deal. Suffolk County Council is all about welcoming diversity and making a difference—together. Ready to join us?