Date: 19 Jun 2026
Location: Taunton, GB, TA1 4DY
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Company: Somerset Council
Closing date: 26 July 2026
Permanent Positions across Somerset, 37 Hours a week. Part times will be considered.
Flexible and Hybrid Working.
30 day’s annual leave (additional to bank holidays)
Access to innovative AI technology including Magic Notes.
Salary: £37,280 per annum. A 12-month programme – an introduction to social work in Somerset.
You will begin your career with us with an attractive starting salary of £37,280 and from day 1 you will be able to take advantage of the benefits of being an employed member of Somerset Council staff, including staff discounts and a great pension.
You will be supported by your allocated Consultant Social Worker (CSW), your Team Manager and your team to achieve your potential. Opportunities for a varied but protected caseload will be offered, regular supervision and opportunities to network with fellow NQSWs for peer supported learning all enabling you to complete the ASYE.
You are required to complete a portfolio which is assessed against the DfE Knowledge and Skills Statement (KSS); study time is provided allowing time to undertake research, with access to innovative AI technology including Magic Notes, to reflect and to complete portfolio paperwork.
We are an approachable organisation which wants our NQSWs to thrive in the ASYE programme and then stay with us. This is a great opportunity for your career but also an important factor in providing the right support for vulnerable children and families in our county. The enhanced programme is Somerset’s next step to achieving a permanent quality work force.
Our current Newly Qualified Social Workers have fed back the following:
“The ASYE programme is a really good way to start your career as a Social Worker, there is a lot of support during the programme and a reduced caseload to start with helps ease you into your role as a Social Worker”.
“Really supportive staffing and resources available to help you as a Newly Qualified Social Worker which has been very beneficial in my career”.
“Good quality training and protected develop time, supervision is reflective and regular with emphasis on critical evaluation of practice and self-awareness.
Role summary
With various different teams across Somerset, you will work to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and young people, partnering with families, communities and professionals to assess need, plan support and deliver effective interventions.
The role focuses on helping children grow up in safe, stable, and nurturing environments.
Children and Young People’s Social Care teams support:
Children in need, including children with disabilities.
Children subject to Child Protection Plans
Children Looked After and Care Leavers
Qualified Social Workers deliver statutory services, hold case responsibility, and work closely with multi‑agency partners, in line with Social Work England professional standards.
What you’ll do - key responsibilities
Carry out high‑quality, child‑centred assessments of need and risk to keep children and young people safe.
Build trusted relationships with children and families to understand their lived experiences and promote positive change.
Use strengths‑based, relational and trauma‑informed practice to engage families effectively.
Manage a caseload of children with varying levels of need and complexity, responding to referrals from multiple sources.
Develop, review, and deliver care plans and evidence‑based interventions that reflect the child’s voice and best interests.
Complete statutory assessments, reviews, and reports, ensuring compliance with legislation, policy, and best practice.
Identify, assess, and escalate safeguarding risks promptly where required.
Work closely with partner agencies including health, education, police, housing, and the voluntary sector to deliver coordinated support.
Prepare clear, timely reports and information for managers, partner agencies, and the courts.
Maintain accurate, high‑quality case records and contribute to effective quality assurance processes.
Take part in duty cover, multi‑agency meetings and partnership working as required.
Promote equality, diversity, and children’s rights, and commit to continuous professional development.
What we’re looking for – knowledge, experience & skills
Essential:
Possession of recognised Social Care Qualification – Degree in Social Work, Dip SW, CQSW, CSS or equivalent, obtained within the last four years.
A valid UK driving licence is required, as you will need to travel to different locations in order to undertake the duties of the role.
Registration with Social Work England.
We want our NQSWs to have high aspirations and a willingness to learn and develop.
Portfolio of evidence demonstrating achievements against the Professional Capabilities Framework for Social Workers.
Knowledge and understanding of social care practice in line with Social Work England standards, relevant legislation, and issues affecting the client group.
Understanding of social care resources and provision available beyond statutory agencies
Relevant multi-disciplinary social care experience appropriate to the role
Evidence of effective partnership working with other agencies, including social care, health, voluntary and/or education services
Ability to work effectively with children, young people, families, and partner organisations.
IT skills to accurately input, manage and retrieve information.
Ability to communicate fluently in English in line with statutory requirements.
Desirable:
Awareness of government guidance and legislative changes across a broad range of social service issues
A range of experience working with the relevant client group.
Additional Information
If you are relocating to Somerset in order to take up a position as a Newly Qualified Social Worker, you may be eligible for a relocation allowance.
Regretfully, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role. We are only able to proceed with candidates who already have the right to work in the UK without the need for visa sponsorship.
Once you have completed your ASYE, the support does not stop there as you will have access to mentor support for your second year along with high quality, mindful supervision.
The Assessment Centre will take place on 5 August 2026 in Taunton.
For an informal chat about the role, please contact Kathryn Andrews at
[email protected]
Job reference number 873/HC
