Senior Social Worker – Duty & Assessment Team

About the role

We are seeking a Senior Social Worker to join the Duty & Assessment Team at Wakefield Council, based in Airedale. The role combines one week of intensive duty work with three weeks of protected long‑term casework, offering a balanced workload and hybrid working flexibility.

Key responsibilities

• Handle incoming referrals and conduct rapid assessments during the dedicated duty week.
• Manage and progress complex long‑term child protection and assessment cases during the three protected weeks.
• Provide informal peer support and mentorship to team members.
• Collaborate with the Assistant Practitioner and Team Manager to ensure case continuity.
• Maintain accurate records and produce assessment reports while working remotely when appropriate.

Required profile

• Degree in Social Work and current registration with Social Work England.
• Significant post‑qualifying experience in statutory Children’s Services, particularly in duty, assessment or child protection.
• Demonstrated senior‑level competence in handling complex cases.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.

Required skills

• Social work assessment and case management.

What we offer

• £35.00 per hour rate.
• Hybrid working model – office for duty weeks, remote for assessments.
• Supportive team of 7 social workers, an Assistant Practitioner and a permanent Team Manager.
• Structured 1‑in‑4 rotation providing clear separation between duty and long‑term work.