Join Us

Salary: £51,608 - £53,587 (including local weighting and market )
Hours: 37 hours per week
Contract: Permanent

Are you passionate about providing appropriate support and challenge to ensure the delivery of high quality services that safeguard the welfare of children and young people? Then we have a Assistant Team Manager role available for you in the MASH team in Referral & Assessment service.

The Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) is the first point of contact for all potential safeguarding concerns in relation to children. MASH is a co-located team which brings together agencies and their information, in order to identify risks to and needs of children at the earliest possible point and respond with the most effective and joined up actions. The purpose of MASH is to make the right decisions for the right families at the right time. This in turn will ensure timely and necessary actions to improve the outcomes for vulnerable children.

The structure of the MASH Team includes one Team Manager ,  two Deputy Team  Managers, three Senior Practitioners ,four  Social Workers and four team administrators.

If you're looking for a new challenge and want to be art of an exciting time for children's services in Slough then come and join us.

Main Accountabilities

• As a member of Slough Children First’s management team, provide day to day management of the team, providing appropriate support and challenge to ensure the delivery of high quality services that safeguard the welfare of children and young people.
• Make effective day to day use of all available professional resources and use a range of theoretical, evidence based and practical approaches including systemic practice to develop and implement effective interventions and support for children and families both within and outside of the family home.
• Manage the distribution of caseloads to ensure that the child or young person’s needs are met appropriately.
• Support and challenge the team to meet the requirements around thresholds for cases, managing the preparation of high quality reports for court or other purposes, challenging, providing expert advice to guide the team through legal and organisational processes as required
• Support and challenge the team in the completion of assessments, plans, toolkits based on identified need, ensuring at each point risk is evaluated, decisions and management oversight are recorded on the case file and any issues or concerns are escalated to the Team Manager to address.
• Chair the first and transfer core groups and CIN meetings to a high standard, supporting social workers in further meetings as required.
• Co-work complex cases with team members as required without taking on a specific caseload of their own.
• Supervise social workers and non qualified staff in the team as per Slough Children First’s supervision policy, supporting and supervising social work students, acting as a mentor to support them through their professional training.
• Lead hub / group supervision to a high standard ensuring that all team members are aware of progress on cases.
• Provide day to day supervision on case work to a high standard.
• Understand what performance information, and audit outcomes are saying to positively impact on individual cases and support staff development.
• Promote direct work with children and young people, supporting all members of the team to actively seek the views of children and families to inform practice in assessment and planning in individual cases.
• Participate in quality assurance activities to support professional development of staff and improve the consistency of practice.
• Support the Team Manager to tackle under-performance, sickness absence and conduct both informally and formally and within Slough Children First’s policy frameworks.
• Contribute to Slough Children First’s development with knowledge of an area of specialist practice and to provide consultation, coaching and mentoring within the Team, and across the service as a whole as required.
• Develop and maintain own professional links and leads with partner agencies and the voluntary sector and support those of the Team Manager.
• Maintain own professional development through training and other suitable mechanisms and keep up to date with changes in national, regional and local policy initiatives that will impact on the delivery of services and respond accordingly.
• Represent Slough Children First’s values, leading by example in the delivery of these and setting a positive culture within your team, service and Slough Children First; challenge behaviour when it is not aligned with our values and take appropriate action; support a professional in a respectful and child-focussed environment which supports Slough Children First’s vision
• Ensure all interventions are conducted within an anti-discriminatory framework, and take into account issues such as race, gender, sexuality, disability etc, and deliver appropriate services to the diverse communities of Slough.
• Deputise for the Team Manager, undertake projects and other additional duties as required. Undertake work outside office hours as necessary.

Person specification

• Professional Social Work Degree or equivalent (Essential)
• Working knowledge of the legislative framework and relevant guidance and procedures as appropriate to the post. (Essential)
• Experience of managing newly qualified social workers and/or unqualified staff (Essential)
• Social Work England registered (Essential)
• Experience of delivering high quality services to children and in assessment of needs, case planning and/or case management, including complex cases. (Essential)
• Ability to analyse risk relating to child protection and to plan appropriate interventions.(Essential)
• Acceptance and commitment to the principles of human rights and equality and how they underpin practice (Essential)
• Demonstrable understanding and application of the statutory framework underpinning social work (Essential)
• Specialist knowledge of one or more key issues affecting children and their families. E.g. Domestic Abuse, Mental Health, Radicalisation, Neglect, Contextual Safeguarding (Essential)
• Evidence of continued professional development to enhance own knowledge and skills ad encouraging others to develop theirs (Essential)
• Computer literate with knowledge of Microsoft Office packages (Essential)
• Significant experience in the use of electronic case management systems (Essential)
• Post graduate qualification or equivalent, or the willingness to work towards (Desirable)
• Experience of co-ordinating and managing the work of a tea, balancing needs and resources to achieve a high quality service (Desirable)
• Experience in conducting appraisals/supervision that are reflective and strive towards the successful achievement of department/business objectives (Desirable)
• Experience of managing budgets (Desirable)
• Current UK driving license and access to a vehicle (Desirable)

Apply online

If you would like to apply for this post, please use the application form to submit your CV and apply online. Once submitted we will be in touch shortly to discuss your application. if you have any questions, please email recruitment@sloughchildrenfirst.co.uk.

Good luck!

Salary: £44,829-£49,812 (inc local weighting & market supplement)
Hours: 37 hours per week
Contract: Permanent

At Slough Children First we offer exceptional support, flexible working and a chance to do things differently. We are proud to have created a place where social work can flourish. Our young people are looking for social workers who are down-to-earth, honest, approachable and who can be themselves. If this sounds like you, we would love to hear from you.

As a senior social worker within our Referral and Assessment Service, you will be responsible for undertaking social work on allocated cases and producing outcome-based plans that reflect the needs of and risks to children and their families. You will develop effective relationships with children, young people and their families to improve the impact of work and determine the level of service available.

For this role you will need to be a Social Work England registered social worker with a professional social work qualification, or equivalent, and at least four years' experience. You will need to have direct management experience within children's social services where you can demonstrate strong and successful leadership and the ability to maximise the potential of others and implement service improvements.

Main Accountabilities

• Responsible for undertaking social work on allocated cases producing outcome based plans, having regard to the needs of, and risks to, children and their families.
• To develop effective relationships with CYP and their families to improve impact of work and determine the level of service available ensuring written plans are agreed with the CYP and their families and reflect their views.
• To determine, using evidence based practice how these needs will be met subject to resources, statutory responsibilities, within the framework of council policies and procedures.
• To be responsible for effective Individual performance in line with national standards and performance indicators, including receiving regular supervision.
• Responsible for participating in routine auditing activity across the service to secure the highest possible standards of social work practice and record keeping and to act in accordance with requirements of the Quality Assurance Framework.
• To ensure that the needs of service users/carers from all communities are addressed, and that close attention is paid to equalities issues in all aspects of work. To ensure access to translation and interpretation services as necessary.
• To complete financial assessments and, where appropriate, to determine contributions and levels of need/service.
• With the agreement of the Social Work Team Manager/Practice Manager, to identify resources required and available to promote child/family well being.
• To develop and maintain effective working relationships at appropriate levels with other relevant partner agencies e.g. voluntary, community, schools, police, health other statutory agencies/local resource networks and internal partners.
• To maintain, monitor and review accurate records of all work undertaken ensuring recording information is accurate and up to date, including comprehensive use of the Integrated Children’s System.
• To work effectively move casework to other areas of service as appropriate with a clear transfer plan.
• To contribute to the development of services to children and families and to attend and contribute positively to team meetings to promote the delivery of integrated and effective services.
• To identify own individual learning needs and ensure that practice reflects contemporary thinking. To ensure regular reflection of skills and abilities and use supervision and approval to identify future and plan to meet future needs.
• To provide cover for the work of other team members and undertake projects and other additional duties commensurate with the level of the job. (The nature of these will vary according to experience, competencies and the grade of the post).

Person specification

• Professional Social Work Degree or equivalent (Essential)
• Social Work England Registered (Essential)
• DBS Check (Enhanced)
• Indicative post graduate experience (2+ years)
• Professional Standards (Essential)
• Knowledge and Skills for Child and Family Social Workers – issued by DfE (Essential)
• Ability to write reports to a high standard (Essential)
• Understanding of children and families legal framework and assessment process (Essential)
• Understanding and experience of child protection procedures (Essential)
• Current UK driving licence (Desirable)
• Access to own vehicle (insured for work purposes) (Desirable)
• Management experience (Not required)
• Postgraduate qualification in relevant Social work discipline (Desirable)

Apply Online

If you would like to apply for this post, please use the application form to submit your CV and apply online. Once submitted we will be in touch shortly to discuss your application. If you have any questions, please email recruitment@scstrust.co.uk.

Good luck!

Salary: £44,829-£49,812 (inc local weighting & market supplement)
Hours: 37 hours per week
Contract: Permanent

At Slough Children First we offer exceptional support, flexible working and a chance to do things differently. We are proud to have created a place where social work can flourish. Our young people are looking for social workers who are down-to-earth, honest, approachable and who can be themselves. If this sounds like you, we would love to hear from you.

As a senior social worker within our Safeguarding and Family Support Service, you will respond to urgent Priority 1 and 2 child protection referrals with the aim of keeping children and young people safe from the risk of significant harm. You will gather information, assess and prioritise all decisions about the most appropriate response under S47 of the Children Act. You will carry out assessments on children and young people who have been sexually abused, as well as those who use sexually abusive behaviour. You will work to secure permanency within the family, either in the community or through court processes. The most vital aspect of your role is to help make the child’s journey as smooth and safe as possible, whether that’s through PLO, court, adoption and post adoption and to prevent a ‘cycle’ of being in and out of care.

For this role you will need to be a Social Work England registered social worker with a professional social work qualification, or equivalent, and at least four years' experience. You will need to have direct management experience within children's social services where you can demonstrate strong and successful leadership and the ability to maximise the potential of others and implement service improvements.

Main Accountabilities

• Responsible for undertaking social work on allocated cases producing outcome based plans, having regard to the needs of, and risks to, children and their families.
• To develop effective relationships with CYP and their families to improve impact of work and determine the level of service available ensuring written plans are agreed with the CYP and their families and reflect their views.
• To determine, using evidence based practice how these needs will be met subject to resources, statutory responsibilities, within the framework of council policies and procedures.
• To be responsible for effective Individual performance in line with national standards and performance indicators, including receiving regular supervision.
• Responsible for participating in routine auditing activity across the service to secure the highest possible standards of social work practice and record keeping and to act in accordance with requirements of the Quality Assurance Framework.
• To ensure that the needs of service users/carers from all communities are addressed, and that close attention is paid to equalities issues in all aspects of work. To ensure access to translation and interpretation services as necessary.
• To complete financial assessments and, where appropriate, to determine contributions and levels of need/service.
• With the agreement of the Social Work Team Manager/Practice Manager, to identify resources required and available to promote child/family well being.
• To develop and maintain effective working relationships at appropriate levels with other relevant partner agencies e.g. voluntary, community, schools, police, health other statutory agencies/local resource networks and internal partners.
• To maintain, monitor and review accurate records of all work undertaken ensuring recording information is accurate and up to date, including comprehensive use of the Integrated Children’s System.
• To work effectively move casework to other areas of service as appropriate with a clear transfer plan.
• To contribute to the development of services to children and families and to attend and contribute positively to team meetings to promote the delivery of integrated and effective services.
• To identify own individual learning needs and ensure that practice reflects contemporary thinking. To ensure regular reflection of skills and abilities and use supervision and approval to identify future and plan to meet future needs.
• To provide cover for the work of other team members and undertake projects and other additional duties commensurate with the level of the job. (The nature of these will vary according to experience, competencies and the grade of the post).

Person specification

• Professional Social Work Degree or equivalent (Essential)
• Social Work England Registered (Essential)
• DBS Check (Enhanced)
• Indicative post graduate experience (2+ years)
• Professional Standards (Essential)
• Knowledge and Skills for Child and Family Social Workers – issued by DfE (Essential)
• Ability to write reports to a high standard (Essential)
• Understanding of children and families legal framework and assessment process (Essential)
• Understanding and experience of child protection procedures (Essential)
• Current UK driving licence (Desirable)
• Access to own vehicle (insured for work purposes) (Desirable)
• Management experience (Not required)
• Postgraduate qualification in relevant Social work discipline (Desirable)

Apply Online

If you would like to apply for this post, please use the application form to submit your CV and apply online. Once submitted we will be in touch shortly to discuss your application. If you have any questions, please email recruitment@scstrust.co.uk.

Good luck!

Salary: £37,731-£42,839 (inc local weighting & market supplement)
Hours: 37 hours per week
Contract: Permanent

At Slough Children First we offer exceptional support, flexible working and a chance to do things differently. We are proud to have created a place where social work can flourish. Our young people are looking for social workers who are down-to-earth, honest, approachable and who can be themselves. If this sounds like you, we would love to hear from you.

As a social worker within our Referral and Assessment Service, what we call the front door, you will be responsible for undertaking social work on allocated cases and producing outcome-based plans that reflect the needs of and risks to children and their families. You will develop effective relationships with children, young people and their families to improve the impact of work and determine the level of service available.

For this role you will need to be a Social Work England registered social worker with a professional social work qualification, or equivalent, and at least four years' experience. You will need to have direct management experience within children's social services where you can demonstrate strong and successful leadership and the ability to maximise the potential of others and implement service improvements.

Main Accountabilities

• Responsible for undertaking social work on allocated cases producing outcome based plans, having regard to the needs of, and risks to, children and their families.
• To develop effective relationships with children, young people and their families to improve impact of work and determine the level of service available ensuring written plans are agreed with the CYP and their families and reflect their views.
• To determine, using evidence based practice how these needs will be met subject to resources, statutory responsibilities, within the framework of council policies and procedures.
• To be responsible for effective Individual performance in line with national standards and performance indicators, including receiving regular supervision.
• Responsible for participating in routine auditing activity across the service to secure the highest possible standards of social work practice and record keeping and to act in accordance with requirements of the Quality Assurance Framework.
• To ensure that the needs of service users/carers from all communities are addressed, and that close attention is paid to equalities issues in all aspects of work. To ensure access to translation and interpretation services as necessary.
• To complete financial assessments and, where appropriate, to determine contributions and levels of need/service.
• With the agreement of the Social Work Team Manager, to identify resources required and available to promote child/family well being.
• To develop and maintain effective working relationships at appropriate levels with other relevant partner agencies e.g. voluntary, community, schools, police, health other statutory agencies/local resource networks and internal partners.
• To maintain, monitor and review accurate records of all work undertaken ensuring recording information is accurate and up to date, including comprehensive use of the Integrated Children’s System.
• To work effectively move casework to other areas of service as appropriate with a clear transfer plan.
• To contribute to the development of services to children and families and to attend and contribute positively to team meetings to promote the delivery of integrated and effective services.
• To identify own individual learning needs and ensure that practice reflects contemporary thinking. To ensure regular reflection of skills and abilities and use supervision and approval to identify future and plan to meet future needs.
• To provide cover for the work of other team members and undertake projects and other additional duties commensurate with the level of the job. (The nature of these will vary according to experience, competencies and the grade of the post).

Person specification

• Professional Social Work Degree or equivalent (Essential)
• Social Work England Registered (Essential)
• DBS Check (Enhanced)
• Indicative post graduate experience (12 months ASYE)
• Professional Standards (Essential)
• Knowledge and Skills for Child and Family Social Workers – issued by DfE (Essential)
• Ability to write reports to a high standard (Essential)
• Understanding of children and families legal framework and assessment process (Essential)
• Understanding and experience of child protection procedures (Essential)
• Current UK driving licence (Desirable)
• Access to own vehicle (insured for work purposes) (Desirable)
• Management experience (Not required)
• Postgraduate qualification in relevant Social work discipline (Desirable)

Apply Online

If you would like to apply for this post, please use the application form to submit your CV and apply online. Once submitted we will be in touch shortly to discuss your application. If you have any questions, please email recruitment@scstrust.co.uk.

Good luck!

Salary: £37,731 - £42,839 (including market supplement and local weighting)
Hours: 37 hours per week
Contract: Permanent

At Slough Children First we offer exceptional support, flexible working and a chance to do things differently. We’re proud to have created a place where social work can flourish. Our young people are looking for social workers who are down-to-earth, honest, approachable and who can be themselves.  If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.

We have a social worker vacancy within our Children with Disabilities (CWD) team, through this role you will be safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable children and young people in Slough through the delivery of high quality services.

For this role, you’ll need to be a Social Work England registered social worker with a professional social work qualification, or equivalent, and post qualifying experience of working as a social worker within children’s services.

 Main Accountabilities 

• Promote and safeguard the wellbeing and interests of the child / young person at all times and throughout all aspects of work.
• Be responsible for managing an independent workload, ensuring legislative requirements are met to a high standard and within required timescales.
• Thoroughly assess, critically analyse, plan and implement suitable interventions for complex cases that fulfil statutory regulations, instigating proceedings and taking cases to court as required whilst effectively managing risk at all time and seeking support from senior team members when required.
• Produce concise, well-structured assessments, plans and reports, clearly recording and reporting analysis and judgements and ensuring that all recommendations are followed.
• Where cases are to be transferred to another service or partners, ensure that there is a clearly recorded transfer plan.
• Maintain accurate, up to date, evidence-based records safely and confidentially, in line with statutory requirements.
• Work with children, young people and families/carers to develop effective relationships through meaningful and purposeful direct work, actively seeking and understanding their needs and views to promote their participation in decision making and inform practice in assessment and planning in individual cases.
• Work in partnership with colleagues and other agencies to deliver accessible and effective services, empowering parents and carers to develop and maintain safe parenting practices, leading meetings to achieve outcomes for children.
• Be responsible for own individual performance in line with national standards, service and team specific performance indicators and actions required to address areas for improvement.
• Be responsible for own professional development keeping pace with national, regional and local policy initiatives, attending training to maintain professional development and ensuring the receipt of regular supervision.
• Participate in and learn from routine observation, review and auditing activity conducted by the Team Manager and Assistant Team Manager to secure the highest possible standards of social work practice.
• With the agreement of the Assistant Team Manager, identify resources where required and available to promote child/family well being.
• Develop and maintain effective internal and external working relationships to achieve optimal outcomes for children and young people, ensuring a joined-up approach to relationships to other team members and managers.
• Represent Slough Children First’s values and be part of setting a positive culture within your team, service and Slough Children First; challenge behaviour when it is not aligned with our values and take appropriate action; support a professional in a respectful and child-focused environment which supports Slough Children First’s vision.
• Ensure all interventions are conducted within an anti-discriminatory framework, and take into account issues such as race, gender, sexuality, disability etc, and deliver appropriate services to the diverse communities of Slough.
• Provide cover for the work of other team members and take on other additional duties, as required.

Person specification

• Professional Social Work Degree or equivalent (Essential)
• Post qualifying experience as a social worker working with children and families (Essential)
• Social Work England Registered (Essential)
• DBS Check (Enhanced)
• Knowledge and application of the legal framework and assessment process in Children’s Social Care (Essential)
• Knowledge and understanding of the values and principles underpinning the involvement of children, young people and families/carers, including the right to access independent advocacy and complaints processes (Essential)
• Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing, to a range of audiences including children, young people, parents and carers and professional colleagues (Essential)
• Knowledge and application of social work interventions in at least one area of practice (Essential)
• Ability to gather and assess information to inform judgement in complex situations and in response to challenge, clearly reporting and recording analysis (Essential)
• Ability to use a range of interventions effectively and evaluate them in practice to ensure that the correct outcomes are achieved (Essential)
• Ability to manage and prioritise own workload independently, maintaining professionalism in challenging circumstances and seeking support and suggesting solutions for workload difficulties (Essential)
• Acceptance and commitment to the principles of human rights and equality and how they underpin practice (Essential)
• Understands and has experience of the statutory framework underpinning social work (Essential)
• Computer literate with knowledge of Microsoft Office packages (Essential)
• Some experience in using electronic case management skills (Essential)
• Current UK driving license and access to a vehicle (Desirable)

Apply online

If you would like to apply for this post, please use the application form to submit your CV and apply online. Once submitted we will be in touch shortly to discuss your application. if you have any questions, please email recruitment@sloughchildrenfirst.co.uk.

Good luck!

Salary: £37,731 - £42,839 (including local weighting and market supplement )
Hours: 37 hours per week
Contract: Permanent

Are you passionate about promoting and safeguarding the wellbeing and interest of the child? Then we have a Social Worker role available for you in the MASH team in Referral & Assessment service.

The Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) is the first point of contact for all potential safeguarding concerns in relation to children. MASH is a co-located team which brings together agencies and their information, in order to identify risks to and needs of children at the earliest possible point and respond with the most effective and joined up actions. The purpose of MASH is to make the right decisions for the right families at the right time. This in turn will ensure timely and necessary actions to improve the outcomes for vulnerable children.

The structure of the MASH Team includes one Team Manager ,  two Deputy Team  Managers, three Senior Practitioners ,four  Social Workers and four team administrators.

If you're looking for a new challenge and want to be art of an exciting time for children's services in Slough then come and join us.

Main Accountabilities

• Promote and safeguard the wellbeing and interests of the child/young person at all times and throughout all aspects of work.
• Be responsible for managing an independent workload, ensuring legislative requirements are met to a high standard and within required timescales.
• Thoroughly assess, critically analyse, plan and implement suitable interventions for complex cases that fulfil statutory regulations, instigating proceedings and taking cases to court as required whilst effectively managing risk at all time and seeking support from senior team members when required.
• Produce concise, well-structured assessments, plans and reports, clearly recording and reporting analysis and judgements and ensuring that all recommendations are followed.
• Where cases are to be transferred to another service or partners, ensure that there is a clearly recorded transfer plan.
• Maintain accurate, up to date, evidence-based records safely and confidentially, in line with statutory requirements.
• Work with children, young people and families/carers to develop effective relationships through meaningful and purposeful direct work, actively seeking and understanding their needs and views to promote their participation in decision making and inform practice in assessment and planning in individual cases.
• Work in partnership with colleagues and other agencies to deliver accessible and effective services, empowering parents and carers to develop and maintain safe parenting practices, leading meetings to achieve outcomes for children.
• Be responsible for own individual performance in line with national standards, service and team specific performance indicators and actions required to address areas for improvement.
• Be responsible for own professional development keeping pace with national, regional and local policy initiatives, attending training to maintain professional development and ensuring the receipt of regular supervision.
• Participate in and learn from routine observation, review and auditing activity conducted by the Team Manager and Assistant Team Manager to secure the highest possible standards of social work practice.
• With the agreement of the Assistant Team Manager, identify resources where required and available to promote child/family well being.
• Develop and maintain effective internal and external working relationships to achieve optimal outcomes for children and young people, ensuring a joined-up approach to relationships to other team members and managers.
• Represent Slough Children First’s values and be part of setting a positive culture within your team, service and Slough Children First; challenge behaviour when it is not aligned with our values and take appropriate action; support a professional in a respectful and child-focused environment which supports Slough Children First’s vision.
• Ensure all interventions are conducted within an anti-discriminatory framework, and take into account issues such as race, gender, sexuality, disability etc, and deliver appropriate services to the diverse communities of Slough.
• Provide cover for the work of other team members and take on other additional duties, as required.

Person specification

• Professional Social Work Degree or equivalent (Essential)
• Post qualifying experience as a social worker working with children and families (Essential)
• Social Work England registered (Essential)
• Knowledge and application of the legal framework and assessment process in Children’s Social Care (Essential)
• Knowledge and understanding of the values and principles underpinning the involvement of children, young people and families/carers, including the right to access independent advocacy and complaints processes (Essential)
• Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing, to a range of audiences including children, young people, parents and carers and professional colleagues (Essential)
• Knowledge and application of social work interventions in at least one area of practice (Essential)
• Ability to gather and assess information to inform judgement in complex situations and in response to challenge, clearly reporting and recording analysis (Essential)
• Ability to use a range of interventions effectively and evaluate them in practice to ensure that the correct outcomes are achieved (Essential)
• Ability to manage and prioritise own workload independently, maintaining professionalism in challenging circumstances and seeking support and suggesting solutions for workload difficulties (Essential)
• Acceptance and commitment to the principles of human rights and equality and how they underpin practice (Essential)
• Understands and has experience of the statutory framework underpinning social work  (Essential)
• Computer literate with knowledge of Microsoft Office packages (Essential)
• Some experience in using electronic case management skills (Essential)
• Current UK driving license and access to a vehicle (Desirable)

Apply online

If you would like to apply for this post, please use the application form to submit your CV and apply online. Once submitted we will be in touch shortly to discuss your application. if you have any questions, please email recruitment@sloughchildrenfirst.co.uk.

Good luck!

Salary: £37,731-£42,839  (inc local weighting & market supplement)
Hours: 37 hours per week
Contract: Permanent

At Slough Children First we offer exceptional support, flexible working and a chance to do things differently. We are proud to have created a place where social work can flourish. Our young people are looking for social workers who are down-to-earth, honest, approachable and who can be themselves. If this sounds like you, we would love to hear from you.

As a social worker within our Safeguarding and Family Support Service, you will respond to urgent Priority 1 and 2 child protection referrals with the aim of keeping children and young people safe from the risk of significant harm. You will gather information, assess and prioritise all decisions about the most appropriate response under S47 of the Children Act. You will carry out assessments on children and young people who have been sexually abused, as well as those who use sexually abusive behaviour. You will work to secure permanency within the family, either in the community or through court processes. The most vital aspect of your role is to help make the child’s journey as smooth and safe as possible, whether that’s through PLO, court, adoption and post adoption and to prevent a ‘cycle’ of being in and out of care.

For this role you will need to be a Social Work England registered social worker with a professional social work qualification, or equivalent, and at least four years' experience. You will need to have direct management experience within children's social services where you can demonstrate strong and successful leadership and the ability to maximise the potential of others and implement service improvements.

Main Accountabilities

• Responsible for undertaking social work on allocated cases producing outcome based plans, having regard to the needs of, and risks to, children and their families.
• To develop effective relationships with children, young people and their families to improve impact of work and determine the level of service available ensuring written plans are agreed with the CYP and their families and reflect their views.
• To determine, using evidence based practice how these needs will be met subject to resources, statutory responsibilities, within the framework of council policies and procedures.
• To be responsible for effective Individual performance in line with national standards and performance indicators, including receiving regular supervision.
• Responsible for participating in routine auditing activity across the service to secure the highest possible standards of social work practice and record keeping and to act in accordance with requirements of the Quality Assurance Framework.
• To ensure that the needs of service users/carers from all communities are addressed, and that close attention is paid to equalities issues in all aspects of work. To ensure access to translation and interpretation services as necessary.
• To complete financial assessments and, where appropriate, to determine contributions and levels of need/service.
• With the agreement of the Social Work Team Manager, to identify resources required and available to promote child/family well being.
• To develop and maintain effective working relationships at appropriate levels with other relevant partner agencies e.g. voluntary, community, schools, police, health other statutory agencies/local resource networks and internal partners.
• To maintain, monitor and review accurate records of all work undertaken ensuring recording information is accurate and up to date, including comprehensive use of the Integrated Children’s System.
• To work effectively move casework to other areas of service as appropriate with a clear transfer plan.
• To contribute to the development of services to children and families and to attend and contribute positively to team meetings to promote the delivery of integrated and effective services.
• To identify own individual learning needs and ensure that practice reflects contemporary thinking. To ensure regular reflection of skills and abilities and use supervision and approval to identify future and plan to meet future needs.
• To provide cover for the work of other team members and undertake projects and other additional duties commensurate with the level of the job. (The nature of these will vary according to experience, competencies and the grade of the post).

Person specification

• Professional Social Work Degree or equivalent (Essential)
• Social Work England Registered (Essential)
• DBS Check (Enhanced)
• Indicative post graduate experience (12 months ASYE)
• Professional Standards (Essential)
• Knowledge and Skills for Child and Family Social Workers – issued by DfE (Essential)
• Ability to write reports to a high standard (Essential)
• Understanding of children and families legal framework and assessment process (Essential)
• Understanding and experience of child protection procedures (Essential)
• Current UK driving licence (Desirable)
• Access to own vehicle (insured for work purposes) (Desirable)
• Management experience (Not required)
• Postgraduate qualification in relevant Social work discipline (Desirable)

Apply Online

If you would like to apply for this post, please use the application form to submit your CV and apply online. Once submitted we will be in touch shortly to discuss your application. If you have any questions, please email recruitment@scstrust.co.uk.

Good luck!

Salary: £55,394 - £57,417 (including local weighting and market )
Hours: 37 hours per week
Contract: Permanent

Are you capable of making clear decisions around threshold for cases and leading the team by providing support and challenge to ensure delivery of high quality services? Then we have a Team Manager role available for you in the Safeguarding and Family Support service.

As a Team Manager you will:

• Lead, manage and be accountable for a team of Assistant Team Managers, Senior Social Workers, Social Workers and other professionals in the delivery of statutory and legislative duties and requirements.
• Lead the team to safeguard and promote the welfare of vulnerable children and young people in Slough whilst effectively managing risk.
• Ensure the key performance targets as they apply to the team, the service and Slough Children First are met.
• Carry out this role in a collaborative manner that promotes equality of opportunity and joint working with other teams across Slough Children First and partners, while challenging and supporting the team to ensure timely and suitable outcomes for child, young people and their families.
• Take a leading role in promoting, delivering and embracing Slough Children First’s values– Child focussed, Honest and respectful, Improving constantly, Looking ahead and Delivering together – to your team and peers to help deliver our vision of making our children safe, secure and successful.
• Ensure that all multi disciplinary resources are available to ensure that the quality of practice with children, young people and families is of a consistently high quality, is cost effective and quality service standards are met, taking remedial action where this is not the case.

If you're looking for a new challenge and want to be art of an exciting time for children's services in Slough then come and join us.

Main Accountabilities

• As a member of Slough Children First’s management team, lead the team providing appropriate support and challenge to ensure the delivery of high quality services, accurate and timely case file records and the effective use of resources to statutory and legislative requirements
• To oversee the distribution of caseloads to ensure that the child or young person’s needs are met appropriately.
• Make clear decisions around threshold for cases that are part of legal planning meetings, strategy decisions, ensuring at each point risk is evaluated and decisions are recorded on the case file. This is not limited to but to include:
  • Chair strategy meetings, making decisions about whether S47’s are undertaken and signs off S47 reports
  • Quality assure and sign off all reviews, reports and assessments
  • Quality assure and signs off court reports
  • Quality assure and agree care plans
  • Sign off key decision making points with quality assurance undertaken and the provision of regular management oversight on case files
• Carry out regular quality assurance activities including observations, case reviews, team and peer moderated audits that collaboratively involve social work staff to support their professional development, improve the consistency of practice and seek the views of families.
• Use all available performance information and audit outcomes to efficiently manage their team, translating this information in a meaningful way so that all members of the team understand what it is saying and what they need to do.
• Attend Head of Service Performance clinics with a clear narrative for performance in their team and actions to be undertaken to address areas for development.
• Present to Heads of Service on legal matters
• Create, implement and monitor a team plan which links to service and strategic objectives with the overall aim to improve performance.
• Responsible for the regular and effective appraisal of staff performance through Slough Children First’s appraisal process in order to provide clear direction and challenge to prevent drift and delay.
• Responsible for tackling under-performance and performance issues, sickness absence, conduct and grievances as required both informally and formally and within Slough Children First’s policy frameworks.
• Directly supervises the Assistant Team Managers and Senior Social Workers in the team as per Slough Children First supervision policy.
• As part of Quality Assurance activities, ensure that there is effective direct work undertaken with all children and young people with the voice of the child clearly recorded on case files.
• Support all members of the team to actively seek the views of children and families to inform practice in individual cases and uses this feedback to shape the team, its learning and feed into the overall strategic direction of Slough Children First.
• Leads team meetings to a high standard, ensuring that service and corporate messages are cascaded to the team in a timely way and supporting effective two way communications back up to managers from the team.
• Ensure that all members of the team have the capacity to attend training to support their on-going professional development and enable continuous improvements in practice
• Assist and encourage the professional development of the Assistant Team Manager, providing them with opportunities to grow and develop to become Team Managers.
• Maintain own professional development through training and other suitable mechanisms and keep up to date with changes in national, regional and local policy initiatives that will impact on the delivery of services and respond accordingly.
• Supports the Assistant Team Manager to make effective day to day use of all available professional resources, addressing barriers and issues across Slough Children First and with partners where required through the development and maintenance of professional links with partner agencies and the voluntary sector, whilst supporting the links of the Assistant Team Manager.
• Manage the complaints relating to your team effectively and to a high standard in line with Slough Children First’s complaints procedure ensuring they are dealt with promptly and feedback/learning from complaints is delivered back to the team.
• Ensure the effective deployment, monitoring and management of delegated budgets, approving individual case expenditure as authorised up to the value of £1000 whilst maintaining an awareness of the implications of decision on Slough Children First budgets.
• Represent Slough Children First’s values, leading by example in the delivery of these and setting a positive culture within your team, service and Slough Children First; challenge behaviour when it is not aligned with our values and take appropriate action; support a professional in a respectful and child-focussed environment which supports Slough Children First’s vision.
• Ensure all interventions are conducted within an anti-discriminatory framework, and take into account issues such as race, gender, sexuality, disability etc, and deliver appropriate services to the diverse communities of Slough.
• Deputise for the Head of Service, undertake projects and other additional duties, as required. To undertake work outside office hours as necessary.

Person specification

• Professional Social Work Degree or equivalent (Essential)
• Demonstrable working knowledge of the legislative framework and relevant guidance and procedures as appropriate to the post.. (Essential)
• Experience of managing  qualified and unqualified social workers  (Essential)
• Social Work England registered (Essential)
• Substantial experience of working at management level, involved in delivering services to children and in assessment of needs, case planning and/or case management. (Essential)
• Ability to analyse risk relating to child protection and to plan appropriate interventions. (Essential)
• Demonstrable experience of co-ordinating and managing the work of a team, balancing needs and resources to achieve a high quality service. (Essential)
• Proven experience in conducting appraisals/supervision that are reflective and strive towards the successful achievement of department/business objectives (Essential)
• Experience of successfully using performance management information to adhere to statutory timescales and effectively run the team (Essential)
• Experience of managing budgets (Essential)
• Acceptance and commitment to the principles of human rights and equality and how they underpin practice (Essential)
• Is skilled in the understanding and application of the statutory framework underpinning social work (Essential)
• Specialist knowledge of one or more key issues affecting children and their families. E.g. Domestic Abuse, Mental Health, Radicalisation, Neglect, Contexual Safeguarding (Essential)
• Knowledge and demonstrable experience of the application of systemic interventions and methodologies on social work practice (Essential)
• Computer literate with knowledge of Microsoft Office packages (Essential)
• Significant experience in the use of electronic case management systems to effectively manage cases to a successful resolution (Essential)
• Post graduate qualification or equivalent, or the willingness to work towards (Desirable)
• Current UK driving license and access to a vehicle (Desirable)

Apply online

If you would like to apply for this post, please use the application form to submit your CV and apply online. Once submitted we will be in touch shortly to discuss your application. if you have any questions, please email recruitment@sloughchildrenfirst.co.uk.

Good luck!

Slough Children First is looking for committed volunteers who want to work within our Exploitation and Youth Justice Service, previously known as the Youth Offending Team. This role will give you the opportunity to improve your knowledge, learn new skills and also to develop positive partnership working with the local community.

We are looking for volunteers in these areas:

• Panels for young people who are on court referral orders
• Appropriate Adult (representing young people)
• Activities and programmes
• Mentoring (young people)
• Supervising (reparation projects)

If you are enthusiastic, keen to learn and work with the local community, you can benefit from this opportunity.

Apply Online

If you would like to apply for this post, please use the application form to submit your CV and apply online. Once submitted we will be in touch shortly to discuss your application. If you have any questions, please email recruitment@sloughchildrenfirst.co.uk. This is an open advert with no end date. Applications will be shortlisted every two weeks.

Good luck!

Do you want to make a difference to a young person’s life? Do you have 2- 4 hours per month to spare?

The National Youth Advocacy Service (NYAS) urgently requires more volunteers, so why not volunteer as a mentor/befriender for NYAS as an Independent Visitor for children and young people in care? As a volunteer you will:

• Have fun, take young people on outings and maybe share a hobby, sport or interest
• Offer support and a listening ear and be a positive influence in a young person’s life and help build self- esteem and confidence

You don’t need any special qualifications. NYAS is looking for reliable and dependable people from all walks of life and they will provide training and ongoing support. They will also pay expenses to a set limit

Here is what some of their young people and volunteers have to say about this rewarding role:

• I like how my Independent Visitor isn’t anything to do with social services and is here to support me
• They have boosted my confidence, now I feel like when I go places I can just relax and have fun
• My young person always looks forward to me coming, they have had such a disjointed life, I am a stable figure in their life and this has to be important for them, as everything else changes around them a lot.

If you are interested, please visit the NYAS website or call Linzi Bagshaw on 07484 075165.

Salary: Level 9 £46,808 – £51,817 (including local weighting) pro rata for part-time
Hours: Part-time (30 hours per week)
Contract: Permanent

Are you passionate about the child’s voice and ensuring they have a say in plans for their future?  If that’s you, we’re looking for an Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) to join our Quality Assurance and Safeguarding Service.

You’ll need to advocate and champion our Children Looked After (CLA) and ensure care planning promotes early permanence planning.  And you’ll need to be skilled in engaging and supporting the participation of children in the review and planning process.

As an IRO, you’re crucial in ensuring that CLA voices are at the centre of our work as corporate parents; ensuring our children have opportunities to fully participate in making decisions with other agencies and their Social Worker.

To be able to do this effectively, you’ll need to be a Qualified Social Worker with extensive post qualifying experience, be registered with Social Work England and have the following experience and skills:

• A thorough working knowledge of the legal framework relating to Children Looked After including the Children Act 1989, the Care Planning Regulations and the duties and responsibilities of the IRO as set out in the IRO Handbook (DfE 2010);
• Extensive experience as a children’s Social Worker, preferably with management experience at Assistant Team Manager level or above;
• The ability and experience to effectively challenge to ensure best outcomes for children, including effective escalation; and
• Effectively contribute to training forums and other meetings and act as an expert in the wider department.

Main Accountabilities

• To chair Looked After Children reviews and other complex meetings (e.g. placement disruption meetings) in accordance with government guidance and local procedures.
• To ensure that children and young people participate appropriately in their meetings, and that their wishes and feelings are always fully considered and appropriately weighted, alongside the views of parents, carers and the input of multi-agency professionals.
• To ensure that all children reviewed have an effective Care Plan, which clarifies the objectives to be met, by whom, within what timescales and the actions to be taken if they are not met.
• To implement and monitor agreed quality standards, performance indicators and outcomes, as agreed with responsible managers, ensuring that these meet local and national targets.
• To assist in the collection of a range of statistical and other data. To provide and present reports as required.
• To provide consultation, support and advice to staff involved in Looked After Children/Child Protection work. To record all such consultations with staff and to feed these into the line management process.
• To develop and maintain relationships within and across the Borough and with other agencies in Berkshire and across the region.
• To provide effective monitoring and challenge where a child’s plan is not progressing and drift/delay is evident.
• To contribute to service planning and take an active part in inter-agency forums, including participating in the planning and delivery of relevant training and CP Reports.
• To undertake additional duties as required, commensurate with the level of the job.
• To contribute to the promotion and review of the service to meet the changing priorities of Slough Children First in line with the Government and local policy.
• To take an active part in inter-agency forums, including participating in the planning and delivery of relevant training in relation to CLA.
• To participate in Slough Children First’s audit programme completing core and thematic activity as required.

 Person specification

 Education, Training & Experience

 At least five years post qualification experience, including experience of supervising and supporting staff (Essential)

• Experience of chairing complex multi-agency meetings (Essential)
• Experience of assessing, analysing and working with safe practices and promoting the best interests of children and young people (Essential)
• A recognised Social Work qualification and registration with Social Work England (SWE) to comply with the National Requirements, and an evidenced commitment to ongoing professional development (Essential)
• Relevant supervisory/child protection and/or child care specialist post qualifying qualification (Essential)

General & Specific Knowledge

• Specialist knowledge of relevant legislation, regulation, practice, policy and research, particularly in respect of care and protection planning, complex risk assessments and decision making (Essential)
• Able to communicate with children and young people and ensure their views are clearly centred within the CLA review process (Essential)
• Demonstrate an understanding and commitment to Slough Children First’s key policies and a personal commitment to Equal opportunities (Essential)
• The ability to produce and analyse information on performance and to use evidence to maximise outcomes for individuals (Essential)
• Good verbal, written, numeracy, assessment, analytical and chairing skills (Essential)
• The ability to provide effective, professional challenge in order to address practice standards and achieve positive outcomes for our children looked after (Essential)
• The ability to design and implement quality standards in a multi-agency setting (Essential)
• An understanding of case recording systems and their applications to care services (Essential)
• The ability to plan and deliver training at an appropriate level to a wide range of inter-agency staff (Essential)
• The ability to manage change, implement policies and develop services sensitive to the diverse communities of Slough (Essential)
• A current valid driving licence and daily use of a car (Essential)
• The ability to work outside normal office hours when required (Essential)

Apply online

If you would like to apply for this post, please use the application form to submit your CV and apply online. Once submitted, we’ll be in touch shortly to discuss your application. If you have any questions, please email recruitment@sloughchildrenfirst.co.uk. The deadline for submitted applications is 11pm on Sunday 13 February 2022.

Good luck!

Salary: £36,681 (fixed rate)
Hours: Full time (37 hours per week)
Contract: Permanent

Are you effective at managing consistent digital communication and possess an innovative approach to the promotion of the work of an organisation?

If so, we have an excellent opportunity available as our Communications Officer.

As our Communications Officer, you’ll develop and manage targeted and creative communications campaigns and content, and help to promote a positive image of Slough Children First.  You’ll also manage internal and external communication channels, proposing ideas and researching stories.

You’ll need to have experience in writing news releases, features and social media.  As well as demonstrable experience of communications/marketing campaigns and media techniques, processes and good practice.

You’ll need to have the NCTJ Proficiency certificate, CIM, CIPR or CAM or other relevant qualification or be able to demonstrate experience in a public relations or press office setting, or working as a journalist.  Alternatively, you’ll have experience in designing, implementing and evaluating marketing communications strategies.

Main Accountabilities

• Develop and manage targeted and creative communications campaigns and content in line with the company’s priorities.
• Plan, manage and deliver engaging digital and social media campaigns which increases the visibility and understanding of the company’s work with key audiences.
• Measure and evaluate campaigns to show demonstrable behaviour and/or perception change.
• Help to promote a positive image of Slough Children First, using traditional media and social media channels, as required.
• Carry out communications tasks for internal and external audiences.
• Deal with enquiries from all media, building close links with local and national media and partnership agencies.
• Research, produce and organise press releases, briefings, photo calls and bulletins on company initiatives.
• Develop in-house or work with external agencies and colleagues to produce and distribute marketing material including printed literature, advertising, graphic design, copywriting and digital media, ensuring all materials follow the company’s brand guidelines.
• Support stakeholder engagement events designed to promote key company priorities (some evening/weekend work may be required).
• Provide advice to staff and contractors on communications issues, attending meetings when required.
• Manage the staff newsletter and other internal and external communication channels, proposing ideas and researching stories.
• Update the company websites, intranet and social media platforms in relation to communications campaigns and media issues.
• Assist in the implementation of communications planning, developing and following corporate standards and implementing new systems within the department.
• Work across different projects at any one time.
• Manage the administration of comms budgets and planning, in consultation with the Head of HR&OD.
• To carry out any other duties as required commensurate with the level of this post.
• Be a visible and enthusiastic team member, encouraging partnership working across the organisation and with key partners for the company.
• To promote and champion a positive organisation-wide culture that reflects the company’s values.
• Comply with the principles and requirements of the Data Protection Act 2018 and GDPR in relation to the management of company records and information, and respect the privacy of personal information held by the company.

Person specification

 Education, Training & Experience

• Experience of writing news releases, features or copy for print and social media (Essential)
• Experience of writing and following communications plans (Essential)
• Demonstrable experience of communications/marketing campaigns and media techniques, processes and good practice (Essential)
• Experience of Content Management Systems and keeping website updates in line with SEO good practice (Essential)
• Experience of social media management across paid and owned channels (Essential)
• Educated to degree level or equivalent (Essential)
• NCTJ Proficiency certificate, CIM, CIPR or CAM or other relevant qualification OR demonstrable experience in a public relations or press office setting or working as a journalist OR demonstrable experience in designing, implementing and evaluating marketing communications strategies (Essential)
• Demonstrate commitment to continuous personal and professional development (Essential)

General & Specific Knowledge

• A good understanding of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and what it means for public sector digital communications (Essential)
• A good understanding of current affairs, particularly issues affecting children’s social care (Desirable)
• Understands and is committed to equality of opportunity in employment and service delivery (Essential)
• Understands the value of team working and own role as part of that team, actively contributing to achieve team objectives (Essential)
• Communicates clearly, simply and effectively, with excellent writing skills (Essential)
• Demonstrate excellent inter-personal and communication skills (Essential)
• Manages conflicting and competing priorities effectively and has an ability to work to deadlines (Essential)
• Creativity and initiative to identify and develop marketing and publicity opportunities (Essential)
• Able to work proactively with the media (Desirable)
• Self-motivated and able to work on own initiative (Essential)
• Resilience and drive to meet the demands and pressures of the post(Essential)
• Strong IT skills (Essential)
• Hold a driving licence and have access to own car (Essential)
• Flexible and willing to work out of hours when the need arises (Essential)

Apply online

If you would like to apply for this post, please use the application form to submit your CV and apply online. Once submitted, we’ll be in touch shortly to discuss your application. If you have any questions, please email recruitment@sloughchildrenfirst.co.uk. The deadline for submitted applications is 11pm on Sunday 23 January.

Good luck!

Salary: £34,731- £39,839 (including local weighting of £949)
Hours: 37 hours per week
Contract: Permanent

A fantastic opportunity has arisen to join Children With Disabilities team within Slough Children First as an Occupational Therapist.

As an Occupational Therapist you will work in accordance with policies, guidelines and OT standards as determined by Slough Children First and the Royal College of Occupational Therapists Professional Standards for occupational therapy practice, conduct and ethics 2021.

Main Accountabilities

• To carry out assessments of need for services and decide how to meet the identified social and physical care needs of the individual service users in their own homes, within available resources.
• To involve carers in this process and take into account their needs as well as those of the service users to ensure best outcomes.
• To work with supervisor to identify the level of resources which will be required and made available for each service user.
• To manage a personal caseload and throughout the care management process to provide for service users and carers, as appropriate, advice, counselling, treatment, and advocacy according to professional expertise.
• To explore with the service user the service(s) which will be required and should be made available or purchased, and to confirm in writing with the client the agreed objectives and expectations of both service user and the Department.
• Attend and participate in appropriate clinical and case management and team meetings, disseminating and acting upon information.
• To arrange for the delivery of services and installation of equipment with providers, paying all due regard to statutory responsibilities.
• To review the progress of the written objectives and amend these as required. This should take account of the service users’ and carers’ views and needs and ensure cost effectiveness in relation to the quality of the service delivery.
• To participate in other activities which would benefit from the application of professional skills, e.g. working parties, special service developments, policy formation, group work and community development.
• To inform managers of specific needs which cannot be met, through non-availability of services or because of inadequate budgetary provision.
• To collect and submit statistical information to inform departmental reporting.
• Depending on experience and competence, to contribute to standards of practice, training and development activities.
• Participate in clinical supervision and appraisals and supervise Occupational Therapy Assistants according to level of experience.
• To work in accordance with policies and guidelines and the OT standards as determined by Slough Children First and the Royal College of Occupational Therapists Professional Standards for occupational therapy practice, conduct and ethics 2001.
• To work in accordance with local and national health and safety regulations and ensure confidentiality of service user information within the SCF confidentiality policy.
• To maintain comprehensive case records that demonstrate good practice and follow departmental procedures to ensure Slough Children First is discharging its statutory duties.
• To carry out other tasks as are commensurate to the post according to OT core skills

Person specification

Education, Training & Experience

• Good assessment and recording skills. (Essential)
• Willingness to take responsibility and use initiative according to level of experience and delegations. (Essential)
• Use of computer and word processing skills (Essential)
• Good written and verbal communication skills (Essential)
• General knowledge of safe installation and use of assistive equipment and adaptations (Essential)
• General knowledge of common conditions, their prognoses and management (Essential)
• Broad experience working with people having a range of disabilities and multiple pathology. (Essential)
• Bsc/ Diploma in Occupational Therapy. (Essential)
• SWE Registration or Royal College of OT Registration (Essential)
• Full Driving licence with access to car on daily basis. (Essential)
• Physically capable of carrying transporting and fitting equipment in peoples homes, within manual handling constraints. (Essential)
• Can demonstrate and evidence skill in working with all age groups and many pathologies and disabilities. (Desirable)
• Level of experience and delegations. (Desirable)
• Clinical experience of working with people in their own homes (Desirable)
• Experience of working with people of diverse cultural and religious communities. (Desirable)

General & Specific Knowledge

• Ability to work as part of a team and establish effective relationships. (Essential)
• Demonstrate ability to set work priorities and deal with competing everyday demands. (Essential)

Apply online

If you would like to apply for this post, please use the application form to submit your CV and apply online. Once submitted we will be in touch shortly to discuss your application. If you have any questions, please email recruitment@sloughchildrenfirst.co.uk. The deadline for submitted applications is 11pm on Sunday 13 February.  The advert will be extended depending on the number of applications we receive.

Good luck!

Salary: £46,808 - £51,817 (including local weighting) (Pro rata for part-time)
Hours: Part time - 29.6 hours per week
Contract: Permanent

As the panel advisor, you’ll manage Slough Children First's fostering panels, with some work for the adoption panel.

You’ll develop and implement management and quality assurance frameworks, as well as promote service improvement, achieve good inspection outcomes with regard to panel business and contribute towards high quality placements for children.

You’ll ensure panel members are appraised regularly, supporting the chair and agency decision maker in effectively fulfilling their roles and facilitating regular training.

For this role, you’ll need to be a Social Worker with at least five years post qualification experience, with relevant fostering work experience. And have an excellent knowledge and application of the relevant legal frameworks, regulations and fostering national minimum standards. You’ll also need to have proven experience of the successful management of staff/panel members, including the resolution of conflicting interests and priorities.

Main Accountabilities

• Manage Slough Children First's fostering panels
• Act as the Fostering Agency Advisor – there will be work for the Adoption panel also
•  Develop and implement performance management and quality assurance frameworks
•  Promote service improvement and achieve good inspection outcomes with regard to panel business
•  Contribute towards high quality placements for children
•  Ensure that panel members are appraised regularly
•  Facilitate regular training for the panel and service
•  Support the chair and agency decision maker in fulfilling their role in the most effective way through support and appropriate challenge
•  Maintain excellent knowledge and application of the relevant legal frameworks, regulation, and fostering national minimum standards
•  Disseminate regularly relevant and up to date research in the field of fostering to support the chair, panel members and agency decision maker in their respective roles
• Facilitate user feedback to inform service development and continuous improvement of the service
• Wherever possible, generate leads for potential new foster carers and home from home carers
• Ensure the safeguarding of children/young people in all that you do within the role
• Provide every opportunity for the voice of the child to be listened to in all that you do within your role
• Undertake any other duties as commensurate with the level of responsibility of the role
•  Attend all mandatory training in line with the requirements of the role as advised by your manager and other training as and when required
• Attend and participate in case and personal supervision on a regular basis
•  Adhere to your line managers guidance and decisions
•  Attend and participate in personal appraisal
• Adhere to all Trust policies and procedures at all times
•  Positively demonstrate the values and behaviours required by the Trust at all times
•  Ensure your own Health & Safety while carrying out the duties and responsibilities of the role and report any issues, accidents or near misses appropriately and in a timely manner and use any devices provided as guided
•  Adhere to all legislation in terms of practice, policies and procedures for the role including the National Minimum Standards for Fostering and SWE Standards
•  Undertake appraisals, ensuring objectives are set and regularly reviewing them during supervision to ensure they are fully met in line with delivery dates, amended or ended in line with changes required
• Supervise members of the fostering service and undertake regular personal and case supervision
• Review appraisal objectives at supervision to ensure they are being completed or updated as necessary, setting new objectives when required
•  Challenge and scrutinise practice and ensure continuous improvement, identifying capability gaps within the service and taking appropriate action to improve staff performance, using company policies where necessary and with support and advice from HR
•  Log and monitor sickness absence and take appropriate action to deal with absence issues in line with the Sickness Absence policy, with support and advice from HR
• Participate in investigations of staff or hear disciplinaries as and when requested by HR

Person specification

• A social worker with at least five years post qualification experience and/or relevant management experience (Essential)
• Relevant experience of fostering work (Essential)
• Successful management of staff/panel members including the resolution of conflicting interests and priorities (Essential)
• Excellent knowledge and application of the relevant legal frameworks, regulation, and fostering national minimum standards (Essential)
• Evidence of good partnership working to achieve excellent timely outcomes for children, and foster carers (Essential)
• Evidence of achievement and a clear understanding of equal opportunities in employment and service delivery (Essential)
• Knowledge and understanding of children’s services statutory duties, responsibilities and policy requirements (Essential)
• An understanding and knowledge of public sector policy and performance frameworks relating to services for children and young people and families (Essential)
• Knowledge and understanding of children’s safeguarding (Essential)
• Visible leadership to support the agency in achieving the best outcomes for children and foster carers (Essential)
• Excellent time management and organisational skills (Essential)
• Able to role model flexibility and meet deadlines (Essential)
• Able to manage conflict and challenge in a constructive way (Essential)
• Application of anti-discriminatory practice (Essential)
• Knowledge and application of meeting safer recruitment practices as set out in the fostering national minimum standards (Essential)
• Able to inform, listen, support and motivate the panel members (Essential)
• Able to appropriately challenge inadequate performance or unacceptable behaviour (Essential)
• Able to manage business processes to ensure efficiency and effectiveness (Essential)
• Identifies and implements customer focused improvements (Essential)
• Excellent verbal, written and IT Skills to produce clear literate and appropriate reports/correspondence (Essential)
• Understanding of and commitment to equality and diversity (Essential)
• Social Work qualification (Essential)
• Evidence of post qualifying training (Essential)
• A recognised management qualification (Essential)
• Evidence of commitment to continued training and development (Essential)
• Social Work England registration – this role is a Regulated Activity (Essential)
• A satisfactory enhanced DBS check (Essential)

Apply online

If you would like to apply for this post, please use the application form to submit your CV and apply online. Once submitted we will be in touch shortly to discuss your application. If you have any questions, please email recruitment@sloughchildrenfirst.co.uk. The deadline for submitted applications is 11pm on Sunday 13 February.

Good luck!

Salary: £23,576 - £28,690 (including local weighting)
Hours: Part time and full time positions available
Contract: Permanent

Do you have experience of managing confidential information, effectively recording information and using databases? Then we are looking for a Placement Officer to join our Brokerage team.

You will undertake robust negotiation of all placements to achieve best value and respond to all operational requests.

Main Accountabilities

• Manage all referrals into the service undertaking quality assurance to ensure maximum opportunity to achieve a placement that meets assessed need in a timely way
• Build positive working relationships with providers and stakeholders to support effective communication and information transfer
• Respond to all operational requests, managing priority and using time effectively
• Maintain activity data and report as required
• Provide insight into demand, sufficiency ,opportunities and challenges
• Ensure SMART outcomes for IPA are developed prior to placement
• Ensure placements are made within the SCST governance arrangements ensuring sign off for search and placement prior to placement being confirmed
• Provide specialist support and management to avoid breakdown and for all notice arrangements
• Lead on the negotiation of costs including review timescales and ensure communication with SW/PA/IRO and Finance to provide consistency
• Undertake robust negotiation of all placements to achieve best value
• Develop a thorough knowledge of providers within the fostering and residential market and utilise framework agreements to ensure quality and best value

Person specification

• At a minimum at least two years experience of working within Children’s or Adults Social Care, or equivalent service sectors such as the voluntary and third sector or other relevant service sectors such as Health or Education (Essential)
• Proven experience of managing workloads, priorities and meeting deadlines (Essential)
• Proven experience of working collaboratively (Desirable)
• Experience of managing the flow of confidential information, effectively recording information and using databases (Essential)
• Demonstrate insight and understanding of the principles of safeguarding (Desirable)
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills (Essential)
• Competent IT skills (Essential)
• Ability to work on one’s own initiative (Essential)
• Manage and meet conflicting deadlines (Desirable)
• Assertive and able to negotiate placement costs to achieve value for money public money (Essential)
• Ability to work constructively with other professionals and be able to maintain professional relationships with internal and external stakeholders (Essential)
• Ability to work as a member of the team (Essential)
• Work within the trusts policies and procedures (Essential)
• A demonstrable appreciation and understanding of value for public money (Desirable)
• Have a proactive, solution focused approach to work (Desirable)
• Have an understanding of the challenges experienced by some children and the importance of providing quality support to maximize outcomes (Desirable)
• Educated to A- Level or Equivalent (Essential)
• IT literate and have experience of using databases (Essential)

Apply online

If you would like to apply for this post, please use the application form to submit your CV and apply online. Once submitted we will be in touch shortly to discuss your application. If you have any questions, please email recruitment@sloughchildrenfirst.co.uk. The deadline for submitted applications is 11pm on Sunday 30 January. 

Good luck!