Children social worker jobs

Are you passionate about supporting children and young people affected by sexual violence?

This exciting opportunity sits within our Children and Young People's Service and will support children and young people aged 4-25 who have experienced sexual violence. The role will involve providing short-term, trauma-informed wellbeing advocacy, working closely with survivors, their families and support networks, and helping them navigate health, safeguarding and support systems.

About the Role

Reporting to the Clinical Lead for Children & Young People / Advocacy Service Manager, the successful candidate will:

• Provide specialist wellbeing advocacy and emotional support to children and young people affected by sexual violence.
• Undertake risk and needs assessments and develop support plans.
• Work collaboratively with schools, social care, health services, CAMHS, criminal justice agencies and community partners.
• Support children, young people and families to access appropriate services and resources.
• Manage a caseload, maintain accurate records and contribute to monitoring and evaluation activities.
• Deliver support through face-to-face, online, telephone and outreach settings.
• Contribute to service development, awareness raising and training activities.

Key Areas of Responsibility

The successful applicant will:

• Provide short-term wellbeing advocacy and emotional support to children and young people affected by sexual violence.
• Undertake risk and needs assessments and develop support plans.
• Support children, young people and families to navigate health, social care, education and criminal justice systems.
• Work collaboratively with schools, CAMHS, social care, health professionals, police and community partners.
• Manage a caseload and maintain high-quality records and case notes.
• Deliver support in schools, community settings, remotely and from RCSL premises.
• Contribute to safeguarding processes and multi-agency working.
• Support service development, evaluation, awareness raising and training activities.

What You Bring:

• A qualification in counselling, psychotherapy, youth work, social work or a related discipline.
• Experience of supporting children and young people experiencing trauma, abuse or sexual violence.
• Strong safeguarding and risk assessment skills.
• Experience of working in partnership with multiple agencies.
• A commitment to feminist, anti-oppressive and trauma-informed practice.
• Excellent communication, organisational and case management skills.
• A passion for ensuring the voices of children and young people remain central to decision-making.

Safeguarding and Safer Recruitment 

Rape Crisis South London is committed to safeguarding survivors and service users. The post holder will contribute to maintaining the organisation’s safeguarding standards. 

This includes: 

• Promoting the safety and wellbeing of children, young people and adults at risk 
• Identifying and reporting safeguarding concerns 
• Following organisational safeguarding policies and procedures 
• Supporting a culture where everyone feels safe, respected and supported 

Our safer recruitment processes include: 
Values-based interviews 

• Verification of identity, qualifications and employment history 
• Reference checks 
• Enhanced DBS checks where required 
• Safeguarding training and supervision 
• Equality, Feminist Commitment and Values. 

Intersectionality and Reasonable Adjustments 

We recognise that experiences of sexual violence are shaped by intersecting factors such as: 

• Race and ethnicity 
• Disability 
• Sexuality and gender identity 
• Socioeconomic background 
• Immigration status 
• Faith and culture 

Our work is grounded in feminist principles, recognising sexual violence as both a cause and consequence of gender inequality. We centre survivor voices and prioritise empowerment, inclusivity and intersectionality. 

Applicants are encouraged to let us know if they require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, such as: 

• Alternative interview formats or timings 
• Additional time for written tasks 
• Accessible documentation 
• Support relating to disability, neurodivergence or health needs 

Learning and Development 

As a charity undergoing transformation and growth, we welcome colleagues who are committed to continuous learning and professional development.
 
Interview Process 

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview, conducted via MS Teams.
Stage one: MS Teams with the CYP Clinical Lead, Advocacy Manager and Director of Programmes.

The whole process from advertisement to appointment, may take up to 3 -4 weeks.
 
Post holder will be required to undertake Enhanced DBS
The role will initially be open for one month (until filled). However, due to the urgent need for support, applications will be reviewed and interviews arranged on a rolling basis, so early applications are encouraged.

The interview will explore experience and approach to: 

• Safeguarding 
• Equality, diversity and inclusion 
• Wellbeing and feminist practice 
• Trauma-informed therapeutic work 
• Leadership responsibilities relevant to the role 

This post is open to women only (Schedule 9, Paragraph 1, Equality Act 2010).
We particularly welcome applications from women underrepresented in leadership roles in the VAWG sector. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

How to apply 
Please submit: 

• Your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role to in PDF format
• Interview date(s):  Rolling basis

AI in Job Applications
We understand some candidates use AI tools when applying. Whilst we welcome the use of technology to support clear communication and structure, we want to learn more about you, so please ensure that your application reflects your own skills, knowledge and experiences 

Are you looking for a rewarding role within an intersectional feminist organisation? We have an incredible opportunity for a Children Sessional Playworker to join Solace Women’s Aid.

Solace exists to end the harm done through gender-based violence. We work to prevent violence and abuse and provide services to meet the individual needs of survivors, particularly women and children. Our work is holistic and empowering, working alongside survivors to achieve independent lives, free from abuse.

Our core values reflect our history and were developed in consultation with staff and service users. Feminism and intersectionality are key to our work, and we are committed to the principles of being survivor-led, trauma-informed, empowering, diverse, anti-racist and anti-discriminatory.

About the Service

Islington Refuge Service provides emergency accommodation to women and children fleeing domestic abuse and sexual violence. Sessional play workers deliver high-quality safe fun activities that include a combination of enrichment activities, physical games and sports and nutritional education to children up to the age of 14.

About the Role

As a Children Sessional Play Worker, you will be involved in the planning and delivery of a variety of sessions and activities for children and young people at the refuge. This includes listening to children’s ideas to design services around their needs, choices, and aspirations. You will support and involve children in activities which are playful, stimulating, and enjoyable.

You will work alongside the Family Support Worker, encouraging all children to take part and have as much fun as possible whilst helping to develop children's learning, well-being, and social skills.

About You

You will have experience of working with children and you are passionate about play as well as dedicated to providing a welcoming and safe space for all children - supervising the children and ensuring their safety at all times.

The ideal candidate will have in-depth knowledge of domestic abuse and its impact on children as well as practical experience of working with children and within a team. You will also need to demonstrate a proven ability to work on your own initiative and under supervision. A minimum NVQ Level 2 or equivalent in child-care /play/ youthwork /sports/coaching or creative arts is desirable. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff to share this commitment.

Additional Information

The role is centred around coordinating high-quality activities for children. Given the nature of this role, we are unable to offer hybrid working for this position.

This is a part time post at 16 hours per week and a fixed term contract to 31st March 2027.

What we can offer you

We provide a comprehensive benefits package to all our employees, including:

• Flexible working
• Focus on learning and development (internal career progression and training)
• Generous holiday entitlement
• Employer pension contribution
• Family-friendly leave and enhanced maternity pay
• Access to Inclusion Networks
• Daily clinical debriefing
• Two paid wellbeing days
• Employee Assistance Programme providing free 24/7 support and advice
• Employee Benefits Platform offering staff discounts, benefits, and savings
• Flow & Restore yoga classes
• Meditation sessions
• Cycle to Work Scheme

How to apply

Please submit your CV and Supporting Statement through the recruitment portal. When applying for this role, kindly highlight in your Supporting Statement how your values, knowledge, transferable skills, and experience align with each point within the following sections of the Job Profile Document:

• Values, Behaviours & Competencies
• Knowledge, Experience and Skills

Solace Women's Aid values diversity, promotes equity, and challenges discrimination. We encourage and welcome applications from candidates of diverse cultures, abilities, perspectives, and lived experiences.

We have policies and processes in place to ensure that all employees are offered an equal opportunity in recruitment and selection, promotion, training, pay, and benefits. Our Inclusion Networks support staff with protected characteristics and offer inclusive spaces to connect.

We anticipate and provide reasonable adjustments as needed and support employees who acquire a disability or long-term health condition, enabling them to stay in work.

This service is run by women for women and is therefore restricted to female applicants under the Equality Act 2010, Schedule 9, Part 1. Section 7(2)(e) of the Sex Discrimination Act 1975 applies. The post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act.

As part of safer recruitment practices, we carry out pre-employment checks including references, Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and right to work in the UK checks.

No agencies

Would you like to make a lasting difference in the lives of children affected by domestic abuse? Join an award-winning trauma recovery service provider that is passionate about making a positive difference to the lives of children and families.

Bounce Back for Kids (BB4K) is a lifeline for children healing from the trauma of domestic abuse and we’ve expanded our service into Oxfordshire.

We are looking for a Service Lead and a Support Worker to join our team on a fixed term contract to help guide children and families on their healing journey.

Position: Bounce Back for Kids (BB4K) Service Lead

Fixed term full time – 37 hours per week, weekdays

Location: Oxford or Reading with frequent travel. Role covers casework activity across Oxfordshire.

Salary range: £35,502 to £43,389 per annum

Position: Bounce Back for Kids (BB4K) Support Worker

Fixed term part time – 18.5 hours per week, weekdays.

Location: Oxford with frequent travel. Role covers casework activity across Oxfordshire area including Cherwell, West Oxfordshire and the wider Oxfordshire area.

Salary range: £13,254 - £16,199 pro-rata per annum (full time equivalent range £26,508 to £32,397 per annum) 

About the roles:

As a Service Lead you will play a significant role in supporting children and families affected by domestic abuse, some of your key responsibilities will be to:

· support our families through providing outreach support

· deliver group work for children and parents

· provide 1-2-1 sessions to children and families most in need

· lead a dedicated team of Support Workers

· ensure BB4K activities are planned, coordinated and deliver effectively and manage caseload across the team

As a Support Worker you will play a significant role in supporting children and families affected by domestic abuse, some of your key responsibilities will be to:

· complete assessments to understand the needs of families

· deliver group work for children and parents

· provide 1-2-1 sessions to children and families most in need

· support our families through providing outreach support

About you:

A successful Service Lead will have professional expertise in the field of domestic abuse and hold a qualification or professional experience in social care or childcare support work.

You’ll be experienced at managing a team with effective interpersonal skills to collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders and colleagues. You’ll also have experience of working with vulnerable parents and/or children in a range of community settings and adept at delivering groupwork programmes.

A successful Support Worker will need a good understanding of domestic abuse and the impact on children and families (or an interest in working in this field), with experience of delivering groupwork programmes for vulnerable parents and/or children.

If this sounds like you please visit our website and apply today to join a collaborative and dedicated team who are part of something truly meaningful. You will also find contact details for an informal chat about the role on our website.

We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds, including those with personal lived experience of domestic abuse or from underrepresented communities, who meet the essential role requirements.

For more information about our BB4K service please visit the Bounce Back 4 Kids page on our website

Closing date: Midday on Thursday 27 August 2026

Early applications are encouraged as we may review and appoint on an earlier basis if a successful candidate is secured.

Other roles you may have experience of could include: Family Support Worker, Family Key Worker, Children’s Support Worker, Domestic Abuse Support Worker, Domestic Abuse Key Worker, Recovery Worker, Assistant Support Worker, IDVA Independent Domestic Violence Advocate, ISVA Independent Sexual Violence Advocate, Family Support Team Leader, Family Key Worker Team Leader, Family Support Manager, Children’s Support Team Leader, Children’s Support Manager, Domestic Abuse Support Team Leader, Domestic Abuse Support Manager etc.

Safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do at PACT. We have robust measures and best practices in place to safeguard and protect the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and we take pride in maintaining outstanding safeguarding standards.

Anyone joining our team is subject to PACT’s safer recruitment pre-appointment enquiries, including a Disclosure Barring Service (DBS). The role description provides information on what our safer recruitment enquiries include and the level of DBS required to work in the role.

All opportunities with PACT are based in the UK.

We’re looking for two Youth Workers (one Lead Youth Worker, and one Support Youth Worker) to plan, deliver and facilitate educational and social activities for separated children (up to 21 years old) in the context of an interactive youth club to be held weekly in partnership with Corner House Youth Project in Stockton-on Tees.

Although the Lead Youth Worker will prepare and deliver the materials, supported by the Support Youth Worker, they will also have the back-up of a Support Worker from Corner House and a social worker or personal advisor from Stockton-on-Tees Council.

Club Class is a long-standing project for The Separated Child Foundation, and Club Class in Stockton-on-Tees is a new location for us, launching as a 1-year pilot in October 2026.

37.5 hours per week / permanent / working onsite / this role operates on a seven‑day rolling rota following a four‑on, four‑off shift pattern. Shifts will include evenings, weekends and bank holidays.

YMCA DownsLink Group is the leading charity for children and young people across Sussex and Surrey. We offer safe homes, mental health support and trusted advice.

We believe that every child and young person has the right to be safe, heard and to shape their own future. We work alongside them to make that happen.

We are here for children and young people, many of whom face multiple challenges and need our support.

Our Values - we do what’s right, we work with heart, and we build real connections – guide us in all our actions.

Horsham Y Centre provides 24-hour supported housing services offering medium levels of housing-related support for young people aged 16-25 with 50 bedspaces and shared communal facilities. We adopt a trauma informed and psychologically informed approach to supporting our residents to help them build essential life skills, identify their goals and work towards aspirations so that they can move on to enjoy fully independent futures. We have a dedicated team of Support Workers, Night Workers and additional Bank Workers who provide support, guidance, and signposting around areas such as housing, budgeting, living skills, jobs, relationship building and wellbeing. Situated in the middle of Horsham, the service has strong links with and contributes to the local community.

We adopt a trauma informed and psychologically informed approach to supporting our residents to help them build essential life skills, identify their goals and work towards aspirations so that they can move on to enjoy fully independent futures.

We are looking for a Housing Night Worker to join our team at Horsham Y Centre. You will respond promptly to any reported incidents, accidents, or concerns, carrying out thorough checks and taking appropriate action to ensure the safety and wellbeing of everyone on site. You will also take a proactive approach to preventing anti‑social behaviour, working closely with support staff to maintain a positive environment. In addition, you will carry out one‑to‑one interventions with young people who may be experiencing a mental health crisis or who require medical assistance, ensuring they receive timely and appropriate support.

What you will be doing - this is more than a night shift role - it’s an opportunity to make a real difference, working as part of a dedicated team committed to helping young people grow and develop.

Main areas of responsibilities are:

Safety and security

• Provide a friendly, professional presence and ensure the building remains safe, secure and welcoming at night.
• Support resident wellbeing by upholding health and safety procedures, house rules and tenancy requirements.
• Monitor risks and respond to incidents calmly and appropriately, recording and reporting to the relevant teams. 

Resident engagement

• Welcome residents and offer informal, responsive assistance to help them develop confidence, independence and life skills.
• Encourage residents to share their views and engage with available services and opportunities.
• Assist with evening groupwork sessions that promote learning, wellbeing and positive development.

Administration and housekeeping

• Complete essential admin tasks including data entry, case notes and record management.
• Carry out routine health and safety, compliance and room checks.
• Log maintenance issues to ensure the building remains safe and well maintained.

General

• Work collaboratively on a four‑on, four‑off rota, providing consistent, non‑judgemental support overnight.
• Maintain a calm, professional approach and handle challenging situations effectively.
• Take part in ongoing training and reflective practice to support psychologically informed care.

This role involves lone working, so you will need to be confident in decision‑making and in following procedures. However, before joining the rota, you will have the opportunity to get to know the team and services, take part in a full induction, complete the required training, and undertake shadow shifts to ensure you feel confident, supported, and well prepared.

If you are enthusiastic about this opportunity but don’t meet every single requirement, we still encourage you to apply. Your skills and experiences may be more transferable than you think, and you could be exactly the person we are looking for.

About you - this is a dynamic role for someone passionate, empathetic and committed to young people’s development.

Experience and knowledge

• Experience in a customer‑facing role, staying calm and solutions‑focused during challenging situations.
• An understanding of the needs and experiences of young people and adults at risk.
• Awareness of trauma and the ability to work in a strengths‑based, compassionate way.
• Confidence in accurate record‑keeping, including incident logs and health and safety checks.
• Basic safeguarding knowledge and the ability to maintain professional boundaries (training provided).

Skills and abilities

• Clear verbal and written communication, with accurate handovers for day‑time colleagues.
• Strong interpersonal skills, able to build positive relationships.
• Comfortable lone‑working, using initiative, and working as part of a team.
• Competent IT skills, including Microsoft 365 and basic system navigation (training provided).
• Ability to de‑escalate situations and manage challenging behaviour calmly.
• You will bring an awareness of the challenges young people face and the ability to connect with them positively 

CLOSING DATE: Sunday 13 September 2026 at midnight. 

PLEASE NOTE: We are unable to provide work permits or visa sponsorship for this role, so applicants must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

An inclusive workplace We are committed to policies and practices of equity, diversity, and inclusion and to supporting our people to make sure our culture is consistent with this commitment. 

Accessibility If you require assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please do contact us.

YMCA DLG requires all staff and volunteers to be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and to respond proactively to safeguarding concerns. 

Successful applicants will undergo a thorough background screening process, conducted by an accredited third-party provider. This includes an Enhanced DBS check (with Children’s and Adults’ Barred Lists) as well as comprehensive reference and activity check.

About the role:

• Support individuals through the transition into adult integrated services

• Support individuals through the transition in to paid employment and/or relevant training, education or occupation/diversionary activities that can best support there ongoing needs

• Deliver a range of treatment interventions to the clients utilising a child and young person centric approach guided by the 10 key policy principles of working with children and young people.  This may include both individual and group based client work.

• Carry out triage/screening assessments where appropriate

• Work flexibly and in a holistic way to promote harm reduction.

• Devise, implement and review individual care plans with young people.

• Appropriately include parents/carers in the planning and delivery of support.

• Support a caseload of young people, delivering psychosocial interventions alongside basic counselling skills and motivational interviewing approaches.

• Actively develop relations with partner agencies ensuring robust referral protocols and care pathways are put into place for young people to receive substance misuse interventions and other appropriate support.

• Offer a flexible service across the local area in partnership with Health, Social Care, Criminal Justice and generic youth services.

About you:

• Considerable knowledge and experience of working in the substance misuse field.

• Considerable knowledge and experience of working with children and young people.

• Knowledge of issues facing young people today.

• Basic counselling and / or group work experience.

• Experience of undertaking comprehensive assessments and in implementing and reviewing individual care plans.

• An ability to maintain accurate and timely records.

• Understanding of professional accountability in relation to The Children Act 2004 and Every Child Matters 2004

What we will give to you:

• 25 days holiday (+ bank holidays) rising by 1 day for each years’ service “Capped at 30 days”.
• Paid ‘Wellness’ hour each week along with a ‘Wellness’ hub and Employee Assist Programme
• Contributory pension scheme
• A great selection of benefits incl. discounts for shopping, cinema, holidays, etc.
• A friendly and supportive team culture
• Training, career development & progression opportunities
• Refer a Friend Scheme

Overview

Do you want to work for a caring organisation that believes in people?

Do you want to make a difference?

As a Young Persons Transitional Worker with Change Grow Live, you’ll work with people who use our services, helping them get to where they want to be.

We’re looking for a dedicated Young Person’s & Adults Recovery Transitions Worker to join our Newham Service. This role sits within our Young Persons team and focuses on supporting individuals aged up to 25 as they transition into adult services.

You will provide assessment, advice, care-planned treatment, and ongoing support to young people experiencing serious or complex substance-related issues. A key element of the role is coordinating transitions, both into adult treatment pathways and into meaningful education, employment, or training opportunities.

Importantly, this role will also support individuals who require help around ketamine use, offering tailored harm reduction advice, early intervention, and recovery-focused support as part of their care plan.

Location: Newham

Hours: Full time, 37.5 per week

About Us 

Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid have for over 45 years supported women and children with services around domestic violence and abuse. Could you be a part of our team as we continue our mission to end domestic violence and abuse? 

The region’s leading charity in tackling violence against women and girls, BSWA offers a helpline, webchat, drop in and and community support as well as emergency accommodation in six refuges across the area.

Projects supports women in the criminal justice system, in healthcare settings, and throughout the community, offering support to women and children experiencing domestic violence. Alongside this, we also have staff offering training and consultancy to businesses and health and social care professionals alike, raising awareness on gender based violence issues.

We seek like-minded women to join our enthusiastic team of workers, all of us passionate about the vital and valuable work we do to support women and children who have experienced domestic abuse, and tackling the wider issues of violence against women and girls. 

Key Responsibilities -

To develop and deliver family support and play sessions to children, young people and their mothers in refuge and the community. To lead on domestic violence awareness raising sessions with children/young people and professionals.

Experience Required -

Working within a children and family setting with women and children affected by domestic violence 

Assessing and working to meet children’s needs in a holistic way 

Developing and maintaining effective working relationships with external agencies 

Delivering play activities for children 

Delivering training and awareness sessions

Working within safeguarding guidelines and legislation to protect and promote the well-being of children and vulnerable adults

Benefits

• 31 days annual leave (excluding bank holidays) 

• Up to 6% matched pension contribution 

• Free access to Employee Assistance Programme 

• Life Assurance scheme while in employment (a lump sum of 4 times salary) 

• Cycle to Work scheme 

• Health Cash Plan scheme available to all employees from day one 

• Successful candidates may have the opportunity to work under hybrid working arrangements, subject to the role and to the terms of our Hybrid Working Policy 

BSWA is a Disability Confident Employer. We want everyone to have equal chance at being considered for our jobs. Should you be unable to submit your application online and would prefer an alternative method, or you are experiencing another barrier to completing your application, please contact us via our website. 

These posts are covered by a Genuine Occupational Requirement (Schedule 9; Equality Act 2010) and women only need apply.

The closing date for receipt of completed applications is at 12 noon on Wednesday 9th September. Interviews will take place weeks commencing 21st and 28th September.

Salary: Balham Home- Waking Nights: £30,227 or Days: £29,635 & Ealing Home- Waking Nights: £30,227 or Days: £27,929 

Contract: Full time/ Permanent

Hours:40 hours per week (including weekends, bank holidays and occasional sleep-ins) 

• Day Shifts: work between 8 am and 10:30 pm 

• Waking Night Shifts: work between 10 pm and 8 am 

Additional Benefits: 

• £50 per sleep-in 

• Time-and-a-half pay for overtime (over 40 hours per week) and bank holidays 

• Two weekends off per month

Locations: Ealing (W13) and Balham (SW12) 

Looking for fantastic career progression, excellent training and therapeutic support? Join our committed and professional team and make a difference to young people living in residential care, where no two days are the same! 

About Us 

Our vision is for every child and young person to be safe, loved and happy, to achieve their potential and have a bright future. 

St Christopher's is a leading charity caring for children and young people. We are proud of our history of providing fostering, children's homes and innovative leaving care services across the UK.We have a passionate commitment to our young people, placing them at the centre of everything we do.We provide positive and life-changing support experiences for young people who are unable to sustain a placement in their parental or foster home. Our offering in underpinned by therapeutic expertise and young people in our care also benefit from extensive life-skills and participation opportunities as well and learning support regarding their education. 

We are an equal-opportunity employer keen to develop an inclusive workforce where people feel they belong.We hope to attract applications from under- represented groups, including people from different cultures, nationalities, socioeconomic backgrounds, ages, disabilities, religions, faith, sex, orientation, childcare responsibilities and gender-diverse identities.

St Christopher’s Academy 

At St Christopher’s, we offer more than a job in social care— we offer a real career pathway. You’ll have the chance to build your skills, grow your knowledge, and make a lasting difference to young people’s lives, as well as your own. 

When you join us, you’ll receive a tailored development plan designed around your goals. Whether you want to move into a different service, progress into a leadership role, or just explore your current role further, we’ll support you every step of the way. If you want to learn more aboutSt Christopher’s Academy, please clickhere 

Our development programme, St Christopher’s Academy, is built to help you reach your full potential — and the results speak for themselves: 
84% of our Team Leaders, Deputies, and Managers are promoted internally. 

About the Role 

As a Support Worker in a Children’s Home, you will provide direct support and care for our young people, who have complex emotional and mental health difficulties (such as trauma and loss) and can struggle to regulate their emotions. Working within a therapeutic framework, you will develop a direct programme of work aimed at developing authentic relationships with our children and young people (aged between12 – 17 years old), you will also have responsibility for making sure our those in our care are safe, providing support, liaison with other external professionals and completion of support documents to record information.

If applying for the Waking Night role, you will have the additional support of an on-call manager should there be any emergencies. Further to this, you will be involved in monthly team meetings and receive monthly one-to-one supervision with your manager. 

Applicants should have 

• Minimum of 1 years’ experience working and supporting Young People in residential, semi-independent, fostering settings or youth work centres, caring for Children and Young People with emotional behavioural difficulties, neurodivergent or SEND, etc. 

• Willingness to achieve the Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare within 2 years as per Children’s Homes Regulations 2015 (England) 

• Genuine commitment to working with and supporting children and Young People to achieve their full potential; with the ability to build and promote trusted relationships while maintaining professional boundaries. 

• An understanding of the issues facing children and Young People and a basic understanding of safeguarding Regulations and Procedures. 

• The ability to cope effectively with challenging behaviour. 

• Good communication and team working skills. 

• Flexibility to work shifts, including weekends and bank holidays, and if applicable, sleep-in’s. 

• Commitment to undertake any mandatory training (outside of working hours) and continuous learning to ensure a high level of service. 

• Creativity, enthusiasm and energy to inspire and encourage young people to achieve their goals. 

What you should expect from us 

• Competitive pay. 

• 4 weeks full induction and training program (paid). 

• Fantastic opportunities to develop your career within our range of services, Tailored career development plan through our“St Christopher’s Academy”. 

• Industry leading training programme including access to level 3 qualifications, children’s right and participation, CSE, empowerment, mental health and social pedagogy. 

• 25 days holiday rising to 27 days after 3 years’ service, plus Bank Holidays, pro-rata. 

• Contributory pension scheme, enhanced maternity and company sick scheme. 

• UK Life Assurance (Death in service) to the value of 3 times your annual salary. 

• BUPA employee assistance programme, offering counselling, financial advice and legal support. 

• Cycle to work scheme. 

• Bluelight card; discount shopping scheme at hundreds of retailers across the UK both in store and online. 

• Discretionary funded training programs for you to explore and attain new and relevant skills. 

• Employee awards based on performance and length of service. 

Recruitment Process 

At St Christopher’s we are committed to the safeguarding of all children and young people in our care. During the recruitment process you will be expected to complete an online application form to ensure we capture essential information to meet legislation, best practice and vetting requirements.

Your online application must include a supporting statement addressing the criteria stated in the Person Specification. CV’s will not be accepted. 

Application Process 

1. Application:Complete our online form and include a supporting statement addressing the criteria stated in the Person Specification.Please note that applications without supporting statement will not be accepted. 

1. Interview:Shortlisted candidates attend a face-to-face interview at our Putney office. 

1. Second Stage:Successful candidates will visit the home they applied to. 

We advise applying as soon as possible as applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. 

Important note: 

• This post has a minimum age restriction of 21 year for roles working directly with children and young people in our residential and supported accommodation Homes in line with the Equality Act ‘occupational requirement’. 

• It is illegal to applyfor any role that involves working with children and young people under the age of 18, if you know you are barred from working with children. 

• All shortlisted candidates invited to interview will be asked to submit aSelf-Declaration and Disclosureform which will need to be returned prior to an interview being booked. 

• It is a requirement that practitioners working in Children Homes are qualified with the Diploma 3 in residential childcare within 2 years of starting in the job role. (Children Home Regulations England 2015). St Christopher’s provide access and funding to undertake this qualification. Applicants who have Citizenship or Visa status restrictions that may preclude them from being able to meet the qualification requirement may be considered for other options such as fixed term contracts. Each applicant’s situation will be assessed as part of the recruitment process. 

Barnardo's is one of the UK's leading children's charities, and our North England Fostering Service is committed to providing safe, nurturing, and supportive homes for children and young people. We are now seeking a passionate and skilled Supervising Social Worker to join our dedicated team.

 North England service cover Yorkshire, Humber and the North East of England. The successful applicant must be willing to drive across this region as part of their role.

About the Role

As a Supervising Social Worker, you will play a vital role in supporting foster carers to provide high-quality care. You will:

Supervise, support, and develop foster carers to ensure the best outcomes for children.

Undertake assessments of prospective foster carers.

Contribute to the matching process and foster home stability.

Work collaboratively with children, families, carers, and professionals.

Maintain accurate and timely records in line with regulatory requirements.

Delivering training to foster carers

Following induction period, join our out of hours rota

What We're Looking For

We're seeking someone who is:

A qualified Social Worker (DipSW, CQSW, or equivalent) registered with Social Work England.

Experienced in fostering or children's social care.

Skilled in building strong, supportive relationships.

Committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

Able to work flexibly, including evenings and weekends.

Why Barnardo's?

A supportive and inclusive working environment.

Access to high-quality training and development.

Generous annual leave and pension scheme.

Opportunities to grow within a respected national charity.

Supplementary Information

A professional Social Work qualification and SWE registration are essential for this post as is experience in Family Placement, Child Protection or work with children looked after.

The duties of this post require the applicant to have a full current driving license that enables them to drive in the UK and have use of a car and business use insurance.  

This is a fixed term post for one year covering maternity leave.

Please note due to the high volume of applications for some posts, this advert might close before the displayed closing date. We recommend that you apply for this role as soon as possible.

Contract: Full-time, Permanent

Hours: 40 hours per week (shift work including weekends and bank holidays and occasional sleep-ins); work between 8 am and 10:30 pm 

Salary: £26,437 rising to £27,929 after completing mandatory training and probation

Additional Benefits:

• £50 per sleep-in
• Time-and-a-half pay for overtime (over 40 hours per week) and bank holidays
• Two weekends off per month
• 4 weeks full paid induction and further training provided 
• Excellent therapeutic support and career progression 

Location: Balham, SW12 or Ealing, W13 

If you’re looking for a fulfilling and rewarding career in Children’s Social Care where no two days are the same, this could be the perfect opportunity for you. All you need is a genuine passion for making a difference — we’ll provide full training and ongoing support to help you thrive, even if you don’t have prior care experience. 

About the Role 

As a Trainee Practitioner- Children Residential Worker, you’ll support children and young people aged 12–17 who are building resilience after experiencing adversity. You’ll help them develop key life skills, build trust, and create a safe, supportive environment where they can thrive. You’ll also have the chance to take part in fun activities and positive experiences with them. 

All we ask for is a genuine passion for making a difference. No previous care experience is needed — we provide full training and support, including professional qualifications through St Christopher’s Academy Entry Pathway. 

St Christopher’s Academy 

At St Christopher’s, we offer more than a care job— we offer a real career pathway. You’ll have the chance to build your skills, grow your knowledge, and make a lasting difference to young people’s lives. 

When you join us, you’ll receive a tailored development plan designed around your goals. Whether you want to move into a different service, progress into a leadership role, or just explore further your current role, we’ll support you every step of the way. If you want to learn more aboutSt Christopher’s Academy, please clickhere 

Our development programme, St Christopher’s Academy, is built to help you reach your full potential — and the results speak for themselves: 
84% of our Team Leaders, Deputies, and Managers are promoted internally. 

Training 

Starting a career in Children’s Social Care comes with a lot to learn, which is why we provide a 4-week fully paid induction and training programme to make sure you feel supported and confident in your new role. 

Working Hours 

Our children and young people need support around the clock so our homes run 24/7 and we operate on fixed rotas with a variety of shift patterns. 

As a Trainee Practitioner, you’ll work day shifts between 8am and 10pm, with 8, 10 or 12-hour shifts available. You’ll usually work an average of 40 hours per week, including weekends and bank holidays. 

For example, if you work four 10-hour shifts, you’ll then have three days off. Overtime is available and paid at time and a half, including bank holidays. 

At our Ealing home, you’ll be required to complete an average of 2 sleep-ins per week, paid at £50 each. 

Location 

We have Children’s Homes based inBalham and Ealing. During your interview process, you’ll have the opportunity to let us know yourpreferred location, and we’ll do our best to match you with a home that suits your preference and availability. 

What you need to bring to this role 

• Ability to build genuine, trusting relationships with children and young people. 

• Resilience to manage challenging behaviour and complex situations. 

• Strong teamworking skills and willingness to support colleagues. 

• Empathy, while always maintaining professional boundaries. 

• Flexibility to work shifts, including weekends and bank holidays, and occasional sleep-ins 

What you should expect from us 

• Competitive salary. 

• 4 weeks full induction and training program (paid). 

• Competitive pay and reward structure offering salary progression based on performance. 

• Tailored career development plan through our“St Christopher’s Academy”. 

• A friendly working environment, a fun, open and honest culture. 

• 25 days holiday rising to 27 days after 3 years’ service, plus Bank Holidays, pro-rata. 

• Industry leading training programme including access to level 3 qualifications, children’s right and participation, CSE, empowerment, mental health and social pedagogy. 

• Contributory pension scheme, enhanced maternity and company sick scheme. 

• UK Life Assurance (Death in service) to the value of 3 times your annual salary. 

• BUPA employee assistance programme, offering counselling, financial advice and legal support. 

• Cycle to work scheme. 

• Bluelight card; discount shopping scheme at hundreds of retailers across the UK. 

• Discretionary funded training programs. 

• Employee awards based on performance and length of service. 

• Fantastic opportunities to develop your career within our range of services. 

About Us 

Our vision is for every child and young person to be safe, loved and happy, to achieve their potential and have a bright future. 

St Christopher's is a leading charity for children and young people.We are proud of our history of providing fostering, children's homes and innovative leaving care services across the UK & Isle of Man. We have a passionate commitment to our young people, placing them at the centre of everything we do. We provide positive life experiences for young people who are unable to sustain a placement in their parental or foster home. 

We are an equal-opportunity employer keen to develop an inclusive workforce where people feel they belong. We hope to attract applications from under- represented groups, including people from different cultures, nationalities, socioeconomic backgrounds, ages, disabilities, religions, faith, sex, orientation, childcare responsibilities, and gender-diverse identities. 

Recruitment Process 

At St Christopher’s we are committed to the safeguarding of all children and young people in our care. 

1. Application:Complete our online form and include a mandatory supporting statement addressing the criteria stated in the Person Specification.Please note that applications without Personal Statement will not be accepted. CV will not be accepted. 

2. Interview:Shortlisted candidates attend a face-to-face interview at our Putney office. 

3. Second Stage:Successful candidates will visit the home they applied to. 

Please applyas soon as possible, as we review applications on arolling basis. 

Important notes: 

• This post has a minimum age restriction of 21 year for roles working directly with children and young people in our residential and supported accommodation Homes in line with the Equality Act ‘occupational requirement’. 

• It is illegal to applyfor any role that involves working with children and young people under the age of 18, if you know you are barred from working with children. 

• All shortlisted candidates invited to interview will be asked to submit aSelf-Declaration and Disclosureform which will need to be returned prior to an interview being booked. 

• It is a requirement that practitioners working in Children Homes are qualified with the Diploma 3 in residential childcare within 2 years of starting in the job role. (Children Home Regulations England 2015). St Christopher’s provide access and funding to undertake this qualification. Applicants who have Citizenship or Visa status restrictions that may preclude them from being able to meet the qualification requirement may be considered for other options such as fixed term contracts. Each applicant’s situation will be assessed as part of the recruitment process. 

Job Title: Psychosocial Services Operational, Quality and Education Lead

Salary: £46,400 to £48,800 per annum (pro-rata of full time equivalent £58,000 - £61,000)

Team: Psychosocial Services

Hours: Full Time, 30 - 37.5

Contract Type: Permanent

Location: Shooting Star House Hampton and Christopher’s Hospice Guildford

This is a new senior role, which will support and enable our Psychosocial Services for families at Shooting Star Children’s Hospices. We are looking for an arts therapist, psychotherapist, paediatric clinical psychologist or counsellor with management and service development experience in areas of quality and education.

About the role

This role will focus on ensuring our care is a safe as it can be, and the best that children and families can receive. The PSOQE Lead will help us to continue to develop our governance, our psychosocial education pathway and wellbeing support for our people. The role includes day-to-day clinical oversight of the teams, and of families in crisis.

Where service need allows, the PSOQE will have a small clinical caseload, proportionate to the post holder's professional background and area of expertise, ensuring continued clinical credibility, visibility and direct engagement with families.

The PSOQE Lead will be part of our Psychosocial Leadership Team and will act as a deputy to the Head of Psychosocial Services.

At Shooting Star we have an award-winning model of psychosocial care, which at its very core is focused on accessibility and inclusivity, making it as easy as possible for those facing the devastating death of a child, to receive the care they need. It is delivered by a passionate, multi-disciplinary team of social workers, family support workers, counsellors, events team and physio, arts, trauma and complementary therapists. We are a compassionate, forward-thinking, creative and courageous team who strive for the very best for families.

About you

We’re looking for a professionally qualified and registered senior clinician with strong experience of working with children, young people and families, who can provide compassionate leadership across psychosocial services. They will bring expertise in trauma, bereavement, safeguarding, mental health risk and service development, and be able to strengthen practice, quality, education and outcomes through collaborative, inclusive and evidence-informed leadership.

This is a post based at both hospice sites in Hampton and Guildford.

Please see the attached job description for more information about this opportunity at Shooting Star Children’s Hospices.

What we offer

In return you will receive a competitive salary along with a range of benefits, which include:

Pension scheme

• NHS Pension Scheme (for eligible employees) or our stakeholder pension scheme, with up to 7% employer contributions

Annual leave

• 27 days plus Bank Holidays rising with length of service
• 2 weeks paid sabbatical leave after 5, 10 and 15 years’ service

Contractual benefits

• Generous sick pay scheme
• Enhanced maternity, adoption, and paternity leave pay
• Flexible working arrangements
• Death in service benefits
• Reimbursed professional membership fees
• Eye care
• Employee referral scheme
• Blue Light discount card

Health and wellbeing

• Employee Assistance Programme
• Occupational Health
• Mindfulness sessions
• Mental Health First Aiders

Safeguarding

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all our staff to share this commitment. Also, we are committed to equal opportunities and consider all applicants to be in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Employment is subject to receipt of satisfactory references and a DBS check.

Equality, diversity and inclusion

Shooting Star Children’s Hospices is committed to inclusion and diversity in everything we do. We know that getting things right is critical for us to live our organisation’s values: Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Diversity and Excellence.

We are always trying to improve our way of working to be more inclusive and equal. Our vision is for Shooting Star Children’s Hospices to be a place where people of all backgrounds, groups and communities feel welcomed to work and volunteer.

Closing Date: 27/08/2026

Interview Date: 07/09/2026

We are looking for an exceptional, highly motivated and dedicated individual to join our team as a full-time Youth Worker (Youth Voice), supporting our mission to enable young people who are homeless, facing homelessness or unsafe to achieve independence and positive futures.

The successful candidate will work within the Youth Work Team to deliver our frontline drop-in service and support our weekly and monthly activities to all young people experiencing homelessness.

You’ll specialise in youth participation, ensuring that a diverse range of young people’s voices are heard. You’ll also facilitate and lead on supporting our Youth Advisory Board and work alongside them to cultivate inclusive activities which increase youth participation across all our services. We have an ambitious plan to improve and accelerate our youth voice strategy and this role will be at the heart of this delivery.

You should be experienced in designing, planning and facilitating a range of activities and group work with and for young people and be able to work dynamically in a fast-paced day centre environment. We are looking for candidates who are passionate about youth engagement and skilled in bringing out the ideas, voices and opinions of young people to shape service delivery. We are particularly keen to hear from candidates with a background in running participatory youth projects, co-production, youth engagement sessions and/or community engagement.

The ideal candidate is a team player who enjoys working collaboratively across our organisation. This role also includes working closely with our Campaigns, Impact and Policy team to ensure young people’s voices are at the heart of our external campaigning work.

Finally, you will also be committed to the safeguarding of young people and delivering an inclusive and trauma-informed service.

This role will be based at our day centre in Camden, with some travel to other New Horizon projects within London.

Closing date for applications: Monday 21st September

Interviews: Thursday 1st October

Please note interview dates are fixed and will not be changed. Please ensure you are available on these days when applying for this role.

Remote (Surrey and surrounding areas) | 18 – 24 hours

£27,500 pro rata | Flexible working | Real impact

Are you kind, caring and professional – the sort of person who listens deeply, holds space for others, and wants to make a real difference?

At Jigsaw South East, we support children and young people who are facing or coping with the death of a loved one. We’re looking for a compassionate and confident Grief Support Worker to join our small, dedicated team.

In this role, you’ll:

• Support families one-to-one and in groups, both pre- and post-bereavement
• Hold meaningful (and sometimes tough) conversations with warmth and sensitivity
• Help children feel less alone in their grief, and families feel more connected
• Contribute to our PIECES group programme, helpline, and referral process

This isn’t just a job, it’s a chance to walk alongside people at one of the hardest points in their lives and offer light, steadiness and support.

We’re looking for someone who brings:

• A warm, person-centred approach
• Experience working with children and families
• Emotional resilience and a strong sense of purpose
• The ability to travel across Surrey and attend some evening/weekend sessions

We offer:

• Flexible working
• TOIL and supervision
• Ongoing training and personal growth
• A supportive, values-led team who genuinely care

If you believe in the power of kindness and want to help children feel seen, safe and supported, we’d love to hear from you.

View our recruitment pack for more information including a full job description and person specification:

Sessional Assessing Social Worker

When registering to this job board you will be redirected to the online application form. Please ensure that this is completed in full in order that your application can be reviewed.

Role: Self-employed Form F Assessor

Locations: Applicants should be able to travel across Derby City or South Derbyshire, Nottingham City, Nottinghamshire, Leicester City, Peterborough, or North Cambridgeshire.

Pay - £2,250 per Form F Assessment / £37.50 per hour,  plus £250 bonus for ‘panel ready’ assessments, plus £250 bonus for completion within 16 weeks, plus 55p mileage

We are the UK’s largest specialist charity provider of fostering. Our core work involves providing high quality and well supported fostering families for children and young people in the care of local authorities. 

As a ‘not for profit’ organisation, TACT puts the needs of our children and carers first and look to appoint individuals who are as passionate about fostering as we are. TACT invests all surplus income into staff, carers, and child development. This means that we have been able to establish expert in-house support services such as our TACT Health and Education Services and create TACT Connect, our ground-breaking scheme for care experienced young people and adults.  New staff and workers will join us as we  embark on a journey to become a wholly trauma-informed organisation with the aim of increasing our effectiveness and improving outcomes for the children and young people in our care.

As a self-employed worker with TACT, you will be a part of our amazing team of professionals working with our organisational values at the heart of their everyday practice. You can review our values here.

We are recruiting sessional assessing social workers to undertake Form F assessments .  Our assessments are undertaken face to face. Applicants should be able to travel across Derby City or South Derbyshire, Nottingham City, Nottinghamshire, Leicester City, Peterborough, or North Cambridgeshire areas for assessment visits to prospective foster carers. 

Key Duties for Form F Assessors include:

• To undertake and complete Form F assessments in the timescale set out in our policy and guidance.
• To visit personal referees as identified on application form for prospective foster carers.
• To ensure that all checks and references are undertaken and completed.
• To provide to the supervisor, regular written updates of the draft assessment.
• To liaise with our administrative team concerning the progress of administrative checks and completion of the Form F.
• To be available for supervision, consultation or liaison as required.
• To be available to present completed Form Fs to the virtual fostering panel and provide support to the applicants through this process.
• To be aware of our child protection procedures and immediately report any child protection matter or concerns to a TACT manager and any relevant placing authority and the area authority.
• To carry out the duties in line with our Foster Carer and Supervising Social Worker Standards and Practice Guidance.

Rates of Pay for Form F Assessors

• We will pay £2250 (inclusive of VAT) + up to £500 bonus payments (if criteria are met) upon submission of a successfully completed Form F Assessment.
• £37.50 per hour for assessments which are not completed, and any other piece of work.

Please see the Self-Employed Form F Assessor Job Information Pack for a full breakdown of role requirements. 

You will be DipSW, CSS or CQSW qualified and registered with the relevant regulatory body (Social Work England).

An Enhanced DBS check will be required for this role and will be undertaken  by TACT on your behalf.

Closing Date: TBC

Interview Date: TBC

Safeguarding is everyone’s business and we believe that only the people with the right skills and values should work in social work.  As part of our commitment to safeguarding, we properly examine the skills, experience, qualifications and values of potential staff in relation to our work with vulnerable young children.  We use rigorous and consistent recruitment approaches to help safeguard our young people. All staff are expected to work in line with TACT’s safeguarding policies.

We reserve the right to close a vacancy earlier than advertised if the volume of applications is excessive, you are therefore advised to apply at your earliest convenience.

We do not accept unsolicited CVs from external recruitment agencies nor accept the fees associated with them.

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