Supervising Social Worker - Non-Profit Fostering
Job Summary
Working Pattern:
Full time
Advert Start Date:
30/07/2026
Advert End Date:
Closed for applications on 28/08/2026 23:59
Salary:
Up to £46,500 pa pro rata
Job Category:
Social Work - Children Service
Employment Location:
Durham
Further Information
Join a passionate, child-centred Fostering Team!
At Orchard Care, we believe that outstanding outcomes for children come from supporting and valuing the people who care for them. Our service is built on strong relationships, small caseloads, and a genuinely supportive culture.
We are looking for a dedicated, compassionate and experienced Supervising Social Worker on a full or part time basis who shares our commitment to improving the lives of children and young people in foster care.
This is an exciting opportunity to join a not-for-profit fostering agency with a warm, highly supportive team of social workers, support workers and managers who are deeply committed to child-centred practice, high quality support for carers and strong systemic partnership working.
Why work with us?
• Small caseloads to ensure meaningful support for carers and children
• Visible and supportive leadership from experienced managers
• A collaborative, values-driven team culture
• Commitment to on-going training, professional development and reflective supervision
• Flexible working to support work–life balance
• Quiet office environment
• No Hot Desking
• Robust Admin support
The Role
As a Supervising Social Worker, you will play a key role in supporting foster carers and ensuring children receive the highest quality care.
You will work closely and systemically with carers, children, local authorities and colleagues to provide high-quality supervision, guidance and support, ensuring that the needs and outcomes of children remain central to all practice.
You will also contribute to the development of carers, recruitment processes and service improvement.
Key Responsibilities:
• Supporting Foster Carers and Young People
• Provide structured supervision and ongoing support to foster carers
• Help develop individualised support packages for carers and young people
• Ensure children’s needs, safety and outcomes remain central to all decision making.
• Complete unannounced visits in line with regulatory requirements
• Prepare reports and attend childrens reviews and other professional meetings.
Assessments and Reviews
• Complete Form F assessments and present to the fostering panel.
• Contribute to carer reviews and on-going assessments.
• Participate in matching processes and write matching reports.
• Support monitoring of placement plans, care plans, health and education outcomes.
Recruitment and Training
• Contribute to the recruitment of high-quality foster carers.
• Support the training and development of carers and their families and support networks.
Team Working
• Actively participate in team meetings and service development.
• Promote a culture of systemic communication, collaboration and mutual support.
On-Call
• Participate in the 24-hour on-call rota to support foster carers.
Recording and Compliance
• Maintain accurate, timely case records and reports.
• Ensure compliance with Fostering Regulations and National Minimum Standards.
About You
We are looking for someone who is:
- Passionate about improving outcomes for children in care
- Caring, committed and child-centred
- Able to build strong relationships with carers, children and professionals
- A supportive and encouraging supervisor
- Organised, reflective and able to manage competing priorities
- A positive team player with integrity, humour and dedication
Essential Requirements
- Qualified Social Worker (CQSW, CSS, DipSW or equivalent)
- Registered with Social Work England
- At least 2 years post-qualifying experience
- Experience in assessment, report writing and supporting carers or families
- Knowledge of Children Act 1989, Fostering Regulations and National Minimum Standards
- Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle with business insurance
Desirable
- Experience in fostering or family placement work
- Practice educator
- Experience delivering training or group work
- Experience contributing to placement matching and support planning
What We Offer
- Negotiable salary depending on experience
- 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Mileage allowance
- Regular supervision and professional development
- Supportive management and a positive team culture
Additional Information
The role requires participation in evening, weekend and on-call duties, with flexible working arrangements available.
If you are a compassionate and motivated social worker who wants to be part of a small, supportive and passionate fostering team, we would love to hear from you.
Job Types: Full-time or Part-time, Permanent
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Flexible benefits package
- On-site free parking
- Sick pay
Education: Bachelor's (required)
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Durham DH7 8XL
How to apply:
To apply for this role please email your CV and a Covering Letter to
Donna Stead, email: donna.stead@orchardcare.org.uk or via post to:
Orchard Care (North East) Ltd
Suite 1, Alexander House, Whitfield Ct, St John's Rd, Meadowfield, Durham DH7 8XL
Please visit our website to learn more about us:
www.orchardcare.org.uk and feel free to contact us direct with any questions you may have.
Please note
This job is closed for applications.