Social Work Lead (Kinship Team)

About the role

The Family Placement Service at Northumberland County Council is hiring an Advanced Social Work Practitioner to lead the Kinship Team. In this senior role you will oversee the screening and assessment of family and friend carers, ensuring children in care can remain within their trusted network.

Key responsibilities

• Screen and assess kinship carers for suitability to care for children.
• Prepare Special Guardianship Reports and Kinship Fostering Assessments as directed by the court.
• Provide coaching, mentoring and critical reflection to fellow social workers.
• Develop and maintain a professional network that promotes learning and practice development.
• Support the delivery of the team’s extended training and support offer for special guardians.

Required profile

• Extensive post‑qualifying experience in statutory children’s social work.
• Demonstrated ability to transfer knowledge through coaching and mentoring.
• Strong understanding of kinship care, special guardianship and related legislation.
• Commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people.

Required skills

What we offer

• Competitive salary ranging from £45,091 to £49,282 per year.
• Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Generous annual leave and flexible working arrangements.
• Regular supervision, induction and mentoring from day one.
• Opportunities for career progression within a supportive environment.