Experienced Children's Social Worker – Maternity Cover (Durham)

About the role

Durham County Council, via Randstad Care, is seeking an experienced Children’s Social Worker to join the Families First team on a maternity‑cover basis. You will work across the rural and semi‑urban areas of Crook and Barnard Castle, delivering frontline support to vulnerable children and families.

Key responsibilities

• Manage a varied caseload covering Children in Need (CIN) and Child Protection (CP) cases.
• Support Children in Care (CIC) to ensure safe, stable outcomes.
• Navigate Public and Private Law proceedings, including Public Law Outline (PLO) processes.
• Collaborate with multi‑agency partners to develop and implement care plans.

Required profile

• Registered with Social Work England.
• Post‑qualified experience in statutory Children’s Services, including CIN, CP and court work.
• Demonstrated ability to work confidently within legal frameworks and advocate for children’s best interests.
• Strong team player able to build rapid, meaningful relationships with families.

Required skills

• Knowledge of Public Law Outline (PLO) procedures.
• Understanding of Children in Need and Child Protection legislation.
• Experience with court and legal proceedings in children’s services.

What we offer

• Competitive hourly rate of £32.73.
• Opportunity to work in a supportive, well‑established team.
• Exposure to a diverse range of cases across rural and semi‑urban settings.