Qualified Social Worker – Duty and Assessment Team

About the role

Randstad Care is seeking a qualified social worker to join its fast‑paced Duty and Assessment Team based in Preston. You will be the first point of contact for families and children requiring urgent protection and will work at the front door of children’s services across the Central Lancashire region.

Key responsibilities

• Carry out statutory initial assessments under Section 17 and Section 47 of the Children Act.
• Rapidly triage incoming referrals from schools, health professionals and the public.
• Develop and implement immediate safety plans, escalating to long‑term teams or legal action when necessary.
• Collaborate closely with multi‑agency partners to ensure a coordinated response.

Required profile

• Minimum three years’ experience in a permanent post within a UK local authority.
• No permanent or fixed‑term contract with a local authority in the last 12 weeks.
• Recognised social work degree and active registration with Social Work England.

Required skills

• Knowledge of Children Act Sections 17 and 47.
• Ability to conduct rapid risk assessments and produce safety plans.
• Strong multi‑agency liaison and communication skills.

What we offer

• Competitive rate of £36.00 per hour.
• Immediate start with interviews arranged as soon as possible.
• Convenient Preston location with good transport links.
• Equal‑opportunity employer – decisions made on merit alone.