Job Description

Essex County Council | Locum | £39.00 per hour | 37 Hours per Week | Hybrid Working

Essex County Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join their Children in Care Team. This is a rewarding role focused on supporting children and young people in care, ensuring they achieve stability, permanence, and positive long-term outcomes.

You will manage a caseload of Children in Care, working closely with carers, families, and partner agencies to deliver high-quality care planning and promote the welfare and development of children and young people.

Working Pattern:

37 hours per week

Hybrid working arrangement

In this role, you will:

Manage a caseload of Children in Care

Undertake statutory visits and maintain meaningful relationships with children and young people

Develop, implement, and review care plans and permanence plans

Support permanence planning, including reunification, long-term fostering, Special Guardianship, and adoption where appropriate

Attend and contribute to Children in Care Reviews and multi-agency meetings

Work closely with foster carers, residential providers, schools, health professionals, and partner agencies

Advocate for children and ensure their voices are central to planning and decision-making

Prepare high-quality assessments, reports, and care planning documentation

Maintain accurate and timely case recordings

What You’ll Need:

Social Work England Registration

Social Work Qualification

At least 3 years’ post-qualified experience in children’s social care

Experience within a Children in Care or Looked After Children service

Strong knowledge of care planning and permanence planning processes

Ability to build positive relationships with children, carers, and professionals

Excellent assessment, analytical, and communication skills

Strong organisational and case management abilities

Why Sheldon Phillips?

Because we actually listen to what you need. We’re not just here to fill roles—we’re here to find you the right fit in a supportive and rewarding team. That’s why social workers trust us to help them take the next step in their careers.

If you want to know more about this Social Worker – Children in Care role with Essex County Council, give Ellis Russell a call on (phone number removed) – let’s have a chat!

And don’t forget – if you refer a friend and we place them, you’ll get £300 as a thank you! (Terms and conditions apply)