Social Worker – Achieving Permanence Team (Court Work) – Central Bedfordshire

Job Description

Social Worker – Achieving Permanence Team (Court Work)
£38.00 per hour | 37 hours per week | Inside IR35
Central Bedfordshire Council | Hybrid Role

Are you passionate about achieving stable futures for children in care? Central Bedfordshire Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join our Achieving Permanence Team. This hybrid role offers the opportunity to focus on meaningful court work, care planning, and permanency outcomes for children and young people.

About the Role:
The Achieving Permanence Team supports children and young people through the court process, from Interim Care Order to final hearing. You’ll work closely with Adoption Connects where adoption is the care plan, ensuring a smooth transition to their forever home. You will also provide statutory support to Children in Care and fulfil visiting requirements—some of whom may be placed outside the local area.

Key Responsibilities:

• Complete high-quality court assessments and statements
• Represent the Local Authority in court proceedings
• Support and monitor Children in Care through statutory visits
• Liaise with Adoption Connects for children with adoption plans
• Deliver care that meets statutory obligations and best outcomes

Essential Skills and Experience:

• Qualified Social Worker, registered with Social Work England
• Significant post-qualifying experience, particularly in court work
• Demonstrable experience supporting Children in Care
• Strong assessment and report-writing skills
• Must be a car driver due to out-of-area visits

Working Arrangements:

• Hybrid role – majority home-based
• Office attendance required at least once per month
• Travel required to visit children placed outside Central Bedfordshire

This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a child-centred, legally sound, and outcomes-driven service that is committed to safeguarding and permanence.

Ardent Social is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and encourage applicants from underrepresented communities to apply.