Job Overview
- Job Title: Child and Family Social Work Practitioner – Fostering
- Employer: Gateshead Council
- Location: Gateshead
- Salary: £39,152 – £45,091 plus 5% Recruitment & Retention allowance
- Contract Type: Permanent
- Working Pattern: Full-time, 37 hours per week
- Vacancy ID: 292581
- Number of Posts: 1
- Closing Date: 8 March 2026
About the Role
- Work within Gateshead’s Fostering Service supporting fostering households
- Ensure the needs, voice and wellbeing of children and young people are central to practice
- Undertake assessments, care planning and intervention work
- Analyse complex situations and assess risk
- Apply statutory frameworks including the Care Standards Act 2000 and Children Act 2002
- Work collaboratively in multi-agency and multi-disciplinary settings
- Support and contribute to initiatives such as the Mockingbird model
- Deliver trauma-informed and inclusive practice
Candidate Requirements
- Recognised Social Work qualification
- Social Work England registration
- Significant experience in statutory social work
- Knowledge of National Minimum Standards and Fostering Regulations
- Strong safeguarding experience
- Ability to assess complex needs and risks
- Knowledge of child development across age ranges
- Strong analytical, assessment and communication skills
- Commitment to continuous professional development
- Enhanced DBS required
Benefits
- Competitive salary plus 5% R&R allowance
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- 28 days annual leave rising to 32 days after 5 years (option to buy up to 10 extra days)
- Up to 26 flexi days per year (subject to service needs)
- Learning and development opportunities
- Health and wellbeing support including discounted gym membership
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Electric & Hybrid Car salary sacrifice scheme (after 12 months service)
- Access to VIVUP employee benefits platform
- Disability Confident employer
Application
- Apply online via the Gateshead Council recruitment portal
- Contact recruitment@gateshead.gov.uk for queries
- Early applications encouraged as vacancy may close early
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