The successful candidate will be joining a team with high aspirations, with a clear focus on improvement and the provision of an effective service. You will be part of an integrated team where the IRO’s work alongside the Child Protection Conference Chairs, the Fostering Independent Review Officer, Child in Need Reviewing Officers and the local LADO. 

You will be an experienced social worker with a good understanding of Care planning and safeguarding practice and procedures. You will be able to chair meetings effectively and  contribute to the quality assurance responsibilities of the unit, whilst working with social workers to support them to create the best plans for children.  You will develop meaningful records and be able to contribute to ongoing training and development of social workers.

What we need from you

• You will hold a professional recognised social work qualification.
• You must have at least 5 years post-qualification experience in a statutory child care setting.
• You must be able to chair formal meetings and demonstrate up to date knowledge of legislation, regulations and codes of practice relating to Child Protection and Children In Care.
• You will demonstrate an ability to critically analyse information, balance opposing views and interests whilst maintaining a child focus.
• You will demonstrate an ability to communicate with children and young people and their parents and have good inter-personal and written communication skills.
• Although not essential, you may have previous management/ supervisory experience in a statutory child care setting.
• Please note that due to the nature of this role it is a requirement of employment that an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is obtained for this post

What we will offer you:

A warm Sefton welcome

• A comprehensive induction programme
• Support from Team Manager and Service Manager
• Good quality, regular, reflective supervision
• Manageable caseloads
• Excellent training and development opportunities including a wide-ranging offer from our in-house workforce training and development unit as well as access to a number of external accredited opportunities
• Partnership with Research in Practice, providing access to online webinars, podcasts and materials linked to the latest research and policy updates to support your CPD and inform evidence-based reports
• 28 days annual leave rising to 33 days with 5 years continual service and 8 bank holidays
• Enhanced sick pay scheme, maternity/adoption leave pay and maternity support leave
• Opportunities for agile/flexible working  
• Access to free eye tests and where appropriate, contribution towards spectacles
• Occupational Health Service available to advise on work related health issues
• Commitment to supporting staff’s emotional and mental health with access to a free and confidential employee counselling service
• Discounted gym membership with all Active Sefton gyms
• Cycle to work scheme
• Salary sacrifice schemes including childcare vouchers
• Access to local benefits and discounts on products and services
• Relocation package as appropriate

Equal Opportunities

Sefton Council strives to ensure that our workforce is inclusive and representative of our communities. A diverse workforce is important to us, our staff bring with them a wide range of experiences, views, ideas, and innovations, and we are committed to providing an environment that recognises, respects, and values everybody’s identity, where individual differences are strengths and where everyone can thrive and maximise their potential. We are always open to learning and growing as an organisation, and we welcome new ideas and initiatives that promote equality, diversity and inclusion.

We are an Equal Opportunities Employer; all candidates will receive equal treatment. Our decision to appoint will be based upon whether an individual’s skills, experience, qualifications, and abilities make them the most suitable candidate for the role.

GUARANTEED INTERVIEW SCHEME

Please note that all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for these jobs (as given in the Person Specification) and who want to apply under the Disability Confident Scheme will be invited to interview.

If you are currently in care or have previously been in care, we provide a guaranteed interview scheme for care experienced people if you meet the essential requirements for the role.