Social Worker – Children in Care(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Role

This is a meaningful opportunity for a committed Social Worker to join a dedicated Children in Care service within Herefordshire. You’ll work directly with children and young people who are looked after, helping them experience stability, safety, and positive life outcomes.

The role is centred around building strong, trusting relationships. You will be a consistent presence in each child’s journey—supporting their emotional wellbeing, education, and long-term plans, whether that involves returning home, remaining in care, or preparing for independent living.

The service follows a restorative and relationship-based approach, where collaboration, reflection, and shared decision-making shape everyday practice.

What You’ll Be Doing

Supporting Children & Young People

• Build meaningful, long-term relationships with children in care.
  Ensure each child’s voice is heard and reflected in care planning.
  Promote emotional wellbeing, stability, and positive development.

Care Planning & Safeguarding

• Carry out assessments and develop care plans tailored to individual needs.
  Work to ensure children are safe and living in nurturing environments.
  Respond effectively to safeguarding concerns in line with statutory guidance.

Partnership Working

• Collaborate with families, foster carers, schools, and other professionals.
  Contribute to multi-agency planning and decision-making.

Supporting Transitions

• Help young people prepare for key life stages, including independence.
  Provide consistent support during placement changes or reunification.

About the Team

The Children in Care service is made up of three supportive teams, each including experienced managers, senior practitioners, and family support workers. Leadership is approachable and actively involved, ensuring you have guidance when managing complex situations.

Herefordshire is currently investing in service improvement and working alongside partners such as Leeds City Council to strengthen outcomes for children and families.

What We’re Looking For

Essential Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker (Degree, DipSW, or equivalent)
  Registered with Social Work England
  Experience in assessment, care planning, and safeguarding
  Ability to manage complex situations with professionalism and resilience

Personal Qualities

• Strong commitment to improving children’s lives
  Ability to work collaboratively and build trust
  Reflective practice and sound decision-making skills

Salary & Benefits

• Salary: £36,363 – £40,777 per year
  Market Supplement: £5,000 annually
  Welcome Bonus: £10,000
  Retention Payment: £2,000 – £4,000
  Relocation Support: Up to £10,000

Additional Benefits

• 31 days annual leave plus bank holidays (option to buy more)
  Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)

Flexible working options

• Ongoing professional development and career progression pathways
  Employee Assistance Programme (24/7 support)
  Retail, leisure, and lifestyle discounts

Living & Working in Herefordshire

Herefordshire offers a unique lifestyle, combining scenic countryside with vibrant market towns and strong community values. With good transport links to cities like Bristol and Birmingham, it provides both tranquillity and connectivity.

Important Information

Safeguarding & DBS
This role requires an enhanced DBS check due to work with vulnerable children.

Professional Registration
You must be registered with Social Work England

Working in Children’s Services
Understanding statutory responsibilities is essential

UK Work Eligibility
This role has limited sponsorship availability and is primarily open to candidates already working in the UK.
Check visa requirements

Right to Work in the UK

Inclusion & Equal Opportunities

Herefordshire Council is committed to creating an inclusive workplace. Applications are encouraged from all backgrounds. Candidates who meet essential criteria and fall under specific schemes (e.g. Disability Confident, Armed Forces Covenant, care leavers) will be guaranteed an interview.

Final Thoughts

This is more than a job—it’s a chance to make a lasting difference in a child’s life. If you’re driven by purpose, value teamwork, and want to grow within a supportive environment, this role offers both challenge and reward.