Social Worker - Children's Complex Health or Disability Team

About the role

Working for the Bradford Children and Families Trust offers the opportunity to work with great people passionate about delivering change in a diverse city. You can make a real difference to families and children and be an active part in delivering the service Bradford families should receive. We are looking for talented individuals to join our dedicated team in Bradford to help shape the future of young lives. We are currently recruiting for Social Workers for the Children’s Complex Health and Disabilities Team, based at Shipley Town Hall. Bradford is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of community. You'll be part of a supportive network of professionals dedicated to improving the lives of children. As we continue to grow and evolve, now is the perfect time to join us. Our recent Ofsted reports acknowledge our progress, with improvements exceeding expectations ahead of time. Our social work senior leadership team is permanent and committed to providing stability and continuity within the organisation. Their consistent presence ensures that our strategic vision and values are upheld, fostering a reliable and supportive environment for both staff and the children in our care. Our approach is rooted in restorative and relational practice, fostering trust, mutual respect, and meaningful relationships with children, families, and professionals.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with partners, identifying what children and their families need to make lasting positive change, and support children and young people to achieve permanence - whether this be in the care of the Trust, reunification with their parents or extended family.
• Support and advocate for children and young people, ensuring their voices are heard in all decision making.
• Undertake comprehensive assessments and work collaboratively with families to develop plans that are led by their strengths, needs, and aspirations.
• Develop and implement care plans tailored to each child's needs.
• Monitor and review the progress of children’s plans, making adjustments to care plans as needed.
• Provide emotional and practical support to children, helping them navigate challenges and build resilience.
• Work to achieve permanency and outstanding outcomes for children and young people through relationship-based practice.

Requirements

• A DIPSW or equivalent qualification and registration with Social Work England as a qualified social worker.
• A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle for work purposes (adjustments can be considered for candidates with a disability).
• Expertise in managing the delivery of quality outcomes for children and young people.
• Ability to build strong relationships with children, their families, colleagues and partner agencies.
• Ability to write high-quality reports and assessments and analyse information effectively.
• Experience of managing a caseload in a statutory setting, with ability to problem solve, negotiate and manage conflict.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills for positive engagement with children and families and productive relationship building in a multi‑agency environment.
• If shortlisted, you will be required to disclose relevant information regarding criminal history prior to interview; a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check including a check against the Children’s barred list will be carried out on preferred candidates.

Benefits

• Retention Payment: eligible for our annual retention payment, paid in 12 monthly instalments (non‑contractual, reviewed annually).
• Enhanced annual leave entitlement: 31 days rising to 34 with service (plus bank holidays).
• Excellent Local Government pension.
• Competitive salary and pay progression structure.
• Supportive carer and parental policies.
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave.
• Access to Occupational Health and confidential counselling services.
• Supportive staff networks.
• Access to Blue Light Card discounts, including cost of living support.
• Professional development/support and opportunities for career progression.