My Social Work News is hiring: Social Worker in Kent

Are you an experienced social worker with a passion for improving the lives of vulnerable children and families? Are you ready to take on a rewarding and challenging role where you can make a real difference in children’s lives? If so, we are looking for a dedicated social worker to join the Unaccompanied Asylum Seeking Children Team (UASC) in Medway.

About the Role

As a Social Worker in the Unaccompanied Asylum Seeking Children Team (UASC), you will work as part of the Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children (UASC) Team, supporting children and young people who arrive in the UK seeking asylum without a parent or guardian. This includes undertaking assessments, planning, and implementing support to ensure that their welfare, safety, and development needs are met in accordance with statutory guidelines.

The role requires compassion, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to navigate complex legal and safeguarding frameworks while working collaboratively with multi-agency partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake assessments to understand the individual needs of unaccompanied asylum-seeking children, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements.
• Develop and implement care plans that promote the safety, welfare, and development of each child or young person.
• Manage a caseload of UASC, providing regular reviews and updates to ensure that services continue to meet their needs.
• Work closely with foster carers, residential staff, and supported accommodation providers to ensure high-quality care is delivered.
• Act as an advocate for children and young people, ensuring that their voices are heard and taken into account in decision-making processes.
• Provide information and guidance to children and young people about their rights, including immigration processes, education, and healthcare.
• Liaise with legal representatives, the Home Office, and other agencies to support young people in navigating their asylum claims.
• Support young people in accessing education, health services, and community resources, promoting their integration into the local community.
• Identify and respond to safeguarding concerns, including trafficking, exploitation, and other risks, in line with local safeguarding policies and procedures.
• Undertake risk assessments and develop strategies to mitigate potential risks to the child or young person’s safety.
• Ensure that appropriate safeguarding measures are in place for all children and young people in care.

Requirements:

• Qualifications: A recognised Social Work degree (e.g., BA/MA in Social Work, DipSW, or equivalent)
• Registration: Current registration with Social Work England
• Experience: Previous experience in children’s services, particularly in child protection and safeguarding roles
• Knowledge: Strong understanding of relevant UK legislation, policies, and guidance related to children’s social care, including the Children Act 1989 and Working Together to Safeguard Children
• Skills: Excellent communication, assessment, and decision-making skills, with the ability to manage complex and emotionally challenging cases
• Other: A valid driving licence and access to a vehicle for work purposes are desirable

Why Join Us?

• Impactful Work: Help improve the lives of vulnerable children and families, making a direct and lasting impact on their future.
• Career Progression: Medway provides continuous learning and development opportunities, supporting your growth and career advancement.
• Collaborative Environment: Be part of a dedicated and supportive team that values teamwork, reflection, and a shared commitment to improving outcomes for children.
• Competitive Benefits: In addition to a competitive salary, you’ll have access to a comprehensive benefits package, including flexible working options and a pension scheme.

If you are a motivated and compassionate social worker looking to contribute to positive change for children and families, we would love to hear from you.