Senior Social Worker – Fostering Kinship

About the role

The Senior Social Worker will join Surrey Council's Fostering Kinship Team, leading assessments, case planning and child protection investigations to keep children safe while supporting families wherever possible.

Key responsibilities

• Triaging referrals to determine if statutory assessment for significant harm is required.
• Conducting comprehensive assessments of families, identifying strengths, risks and developing SMART plans.
• Co‑ordinating multi‑agency meetings with children, families and professionals to monitor progress.
• Carrying out child protection investigations and involving families in risk‑reduction plans.
• Initiating Section 20 discussions or legal proceedings when children cannot be safely cared for within their families.
• Collaborating with commissioning, fostering and adoption teams to secure high‑quality placements that keep siblings together.
• Managing a caseload of individuals, children, families and carers, providing guidance and linking to appropriate services.

Required profile

• Qualified Social Worker, registered with the appropriate professional body.
• Extensive experience in child welfare, fostering or kinship care.
• Strong judgement and ability to make decisions under pressure.
• Excellent communication and partnership working skills.
• In‑depth knowledge of UK child protection legislation and council policies.

Required skills