South East England

Children's Services

Contract

18/03/2026

Reference 3155

Southwark | Locum | £39.04 per hour | Hybrid Working

Southwark Council is seeking an experienced Senior Social Worker to join their Assessment & Intervention Service. This is a dynamic frontline role working with children and families across Section 17 and Section 47 assessments, initial court work, and Looked After Children processes.

You will work within a supportive team structure of 5 Social Workers and 1 Team Manager, with a duty rota in place every 6 weeks. The role is rooted in a systemically-informed, relationship-based practice model focused on achieving timely and positive outcomes for children.

In this role, you will:

  • Complete Section 17 and Section 47 assessments within statutory timescales
  • Manage a complex caseload, including initial court work and LAC processes
  • Undertake risk assessments and develop outcome-focused care plans
  • Build strong, professional relationships with children and families to support change
  • Lead and contribute to multi-agency meetings, including child protection conferences and court proceedings
  • Produce high-quality, analytical reports and maintain accurate case records
  • Work collaboratively with partner agencies to deliver integrated support
  • Provide mentoring, coaching, and support to less experienced social workers and students
  • Contribute to service development and promote best practice within the team

What You’ll Need:

  • Social Work England Registration
  • Social Work Qualification
  • At least 3 years’ post-qualified experience in children’s social care
  • Strong experience within Assessment, Intervention, and safeguarding services
  • Experience completing S17, S47, and court work
  • Ability to manage complex and high-risk cases independently
  • Excellent assessment, analytical, and report-writing skills
  • Confidence working within a fast-paced statutory environment

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 Senior Social Worker – Assessment & Intervention role in Southwark, give Ellis Russell a call on 01635 226350 – 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).

Apply Today

Share this job