Social Worker Next Steps Team - 12 months Fixed Term
Job Summary
Contract Type:
Fixed Term
Working Pattern:
Full time
Advert Start Date:
03/08/2026
Advert End Date:
Closed for applications on 16/08/2026 23:59
Job Category:
Social Work - Children Service
Employment Location:
Stanfield Centre, Sunderland
Further Information
Social Worker Next Steps Team
12 months Fixed Term
Grade: 7/8
Salary:£41771-£47181
Join our Team
Together for Children Sunderland is on a transformative journey to make a real difference in the lives of children and young people in Sunderland. We are an outstanding Ofsted-rated Children’s service, if you’re committed to helping children, families, and our community thrive and have the skills to support our mission, we would love to hear from you. You can learn more about us here: Together for Children.
About the role
Are you passionate about making a difference to the lives of care experienced young people? Do you want to support young people as they transition to adulthood and achieve their goals and aspirations?
We are looking for an experienced and motivated Social Worker to join our Next Steps Team on a 12 month fixed term contract.
As part of a dedicated and supportive team, you will work with cared for children preparing them for the next chapter in their lives. Helping them navigate the challenges of adulthood and access the support they need to thrive. You will be responsible for developing and reviewing plans, managing complex caseloads, and working in partnership with families, carers, professionals, and partner agencies to secure positive outcomes fo our children.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage a caseload of cared for children.
- Develop and deliver cared for plans, pathway planning, and undertake statutory visits.
- Build positive, trusting relationships with young people and their networks.
- Work with families to support reunification for young people where safe to do so
- Work collaboratively with housing, health, education, employment and other key partners.
- Advocate for young people and ensure their voices are central to decision-making.
- Identify and manage risk while promoting independence and resilience.
- Contribute to achieving excellent outcomes in relation to education, employment, training, accommodation, health and wellbeing.
About You
You will:
- Be a qualified Social Worker registered with Social Work England.
- Have experience of working with cared for children, leaving care services and vulnerable adolescents.
- Demonstrate a sound understanding of relevant legislation, regulations and guidance.
- Be a skilled communicator with the ability to engage effectively with young people facing complex challenges.
- Have strong assessment, planning and report-writing skills.
- Be committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for cared for young people.
This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and therefore will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check from the Disclosure and Barring Service. We will also carry out an online internet search for information that is publicly available online that might suggest that you are not fit to work with children or young people.
“Due to recent changes in UKVI rules, this role does not meet the criteria for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under the updated eligibility requirements effective 22 July 2025.”
Contact Dania Carter at dania.carter@togetherforchildren.org.uk for an informal discussion.
Why work with us?
· Make a difference: Our work matters. The work we do is incredibly rewarding. Join us and make a difference in the lives of our children, families, and community.
· Inclusion: Thrive in our diverse and inclusive culture and be part of our employee networks, including Accessibility, LGBTQ+, Racial Equality, Armed Forces and Menopause.
· Work-Life Balance: We offer a hybrid model of working with agile and flexible working arrangements, including part-time opportunities, flexible hours, and the possibility of remote work arrangements.
· Professional Development: Advance your career with our comprehensive induction, supervision, peer support, and supportive environment.
· Be part of a happier, healthier workforce: Benefit from our wide range of wellbeing activities and employee assistance programmes.
· Attractive Salary, Benefits and Rewards: for additional information please follow this link Together for Children Benefits and rewards ·
What our team think: About Us
We value diversity and strongly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including but not limited to various ages, disabilities, neurodiverse individuals, gender identities, sexual orientations, religions, beliefs, races, and ethnicities. We aim for our team to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.
We are committed to making our application process accessible to everyone. Please reach out to our EDI Lead EDI@togetherforchildren.org.uk or peoplesupport@togetherforchildren.org.uk so we can discuss any adjustments or support we can provide during the recruitment process or within the workplace.
We operate a guaranteed interview scheme for applicants who can show they meet all the essential criteria and have indicated they have a disability, are a looked-after young person, are care experienced, or are a veteran.
Are you ready to make a difference?
Please note
This job is closed for applications.