Working Pattern: Full Time
Working Arrangement: Hybrid
Interview Type: In Person
SMART Working: We aim to offer flexibility wherever possible. Many of our colleagues work from home one or more days a week and/or adjust their hours. We call this SMART working - giving you the freedom to shape your working pattern around your life, whilst still delivering great outcomes. Speak with the hiring manager about the range of flexible working options available for this role.
Market Factor Supplement
To support the attraction and retention of experienced social workers, Trafford Council offers a market factor supplement of £2,400 per annum (pro rata), paid monthly and reviewed annually.
Shape Better Futures in Trafford
At Trafford, we are ambitious for children, young people and families, and equally ambitious for the social workers who support them.
Following our recent Ofsted inspection, we are continuing to strengthen and improve services, building on our commitment to delivering high-quality, relationship-based practice and achieving the best possible outcomes for children and families. We know there is more to do, but we are clear about our priorities, investing in our workforce, and committed to creating an environment where social workers can thrive.
If you are an experienced social worker who wants to make a genuine difference whilst developing your career in a supportive and forward-thinking local authority, we would love to hear from you.
Why Trafford?
As a relatively small local authority, Trafford offers the opportunity to know your colleagues, influence change, and see the impact of your work.
Our practitioners tell us they value:
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Supportive and approachable managers
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A strong focus on reflective supervision
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Manageable workloads and meaningful caseload oversight
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A collaborative and friendly team culture
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Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
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Opportunities to develop specialist skills and progress your career
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The chance to contribute to service improvement and innovation
Our practice model is strengths-based, relational and restorative, placing children and families at the centre of everything we do. We want practitioners who are confident, compassionate and committed to delivering excellent social work practice.
We are committed to providing you with :
- A Strong Induction: We recognise that starting a new role is a significant step. That's why we provide a comprehensive induction programme, including protected time during your first weeks to get to know your team, our systems, and the wider service.
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High-Quality Supervision: You will receive monthly reflective supervision that supports your professional development, wellbeing and decision-making. Our refreshed supervision framework also includes opportunities for peer learning and shared reflection.
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Manageable Workloads: We understand that good social work depends on having the capacity to build meaningful relationships with children and families. Managers actively monitor workloads, taking account of case complexity as well as numbers, and prioritisation is regularly discussed through supervision and team support.
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Career Development: We are committed to helping our social workers develop and succeed. Whether you are looking to deepen your expertise, undertake project work, participate in national initiatives, or progress into advanced practitioner or management roles, Trafford offers opportunities to support your ambitions.
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Flexible Working: We know that work is only one part of life. Through our SMART Working approach, many colleagues work flexibly, combining office, home and community-based working to achieve the best outcomes for children whilst maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Our Commitment to You
We are investing in our workforce because we know great social work happens when practitioners feel valued, supported and empowered.
In return, we are looking for experienced social workers who:
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Are passionate about achieving positive outcomes for children and families
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Can build effective and trusting relationships
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Demonstrate sound professional judgement and resilience
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Embrace reflective practice and continuous learning
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Want to contribute to an improving and ambitious service
Additional Information
This vacancy may close early should we receive sufficient applications. We therefore encourage you to apply as soon as possible.
For full details of the role and essential criteria, please refer to the accompanying role profile.
