Family Safeguarding Social Worker Job at Somerset Council – Taunton, UK

Somerset Council is recruiting a Family Safeguarding Social Worker to join its Children and Young People's Social Care team in Taunton. The role pays between £38,510 and £43,149 a year, offers hybrid working, 30 days' annual leave, and — for qualified social workers already living in the UK — the possibility of Skilled Worker visa sponsorship.

This is a statutory social work role covering Children in Need, Children subject to Child Protection Plans, and Children Looked After and Care Leavers, so it suits an experienced, registered social worker comfortable managing a varied caseload and working across multi-agency partnerships.

About the Role

The purpose of the role is to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and young people by working with families and partner agencies to assess needs, plan interventions, and support children to thrive in safe, stable environments. Social workers in this role hold case responsibility and work to Social Work England standards, alongside health, education, housing, and police partners.

What the Role Involves

• Carrying out child-centred assessments of need and risk to safeguard children and young people
• Building trusting relationships with children and families using strengths-based, trauma-informed practice
• Managing a caseload of children with varying levels of complexity, responding to referrals and escalating risk where needed
• Developing, reviewing, and delivering care plans and evidence-based interventions reflecting the child's voice and best interests
• Completing statutory assessments, reviews, and risk assessments in line with legislation and policy
• Working closely with multi-agency partners and acting as lead professional where appropriate
• Preparing clear, timely reports and documentation, including for court and other decision-making forums
• Maintaining accurate records and contributing to team quality assurance and service improvement
• Promoting equality, diversity, and children's rights through anti-discriminatory practice
• Participating in duty work, supervision, professional development, and service initiatives

Who Can Apply

Essential:

• Sound knowledge of social care practice, including relevant legislation and statutory responsibilities
• Understanding of social care resources and support available beyond statutory services
• Relevant experience in social care within a multi-disciplinary setting
• Experience working in partnership with agencies such as health, education, and voluntary sector organisations
• Experience working with children, young people, and families with a range of needs and complexities
• A recognised social work qualification (or equivalent)
• Registration with the relevant professional social work regulatory body
• Strong IT skills for accurate recording and information management
• Clear communication skills, including plain English
• Ability to manage sensitive, challenging situations and recognise when to escalate

Desirable:

• Awareness of current government guidance and legislative changes affecting social care
• Supervisory experience
• Evidence of continuous professional development and reflective practice

Practical requirements: a full driving licence and access to your own vehicle, as travel is required for this role.

On visa sponsorship: Somerset Council may consider Skilled Worker visa sponsorship for suitably qualified overseas social workers, but only for candidates already living in the UK — the council is not able to offer resettlement support for applicants applying from abroad. To be considered, applicants must hold a recognised social work qualification and be registered with Social Work England; sponsorship eligibility is assessed during recruitment.

Pay and Contract Details

• Pay: £38,510 to £43,149 per annum
• Location: Taunton, Somerset (TA1 4DY)
• Working pattern: Hybrid working available, with flexible working options
• Closing date: 30 September 2026 — the council notes it may interview ahead of the closing date depending on response levels, so early applications are recommended

Benefits

• Hybrid working opportunities
• 30 days' annual leave
• Commitment to continuing professional development (CPD)
• Access to innovative AI technology, including Magic Notes, to support casework

How to Apply

If you're a registered social worker with relevant experience and are looking for a statutory safeguarding role with a clear focus on CPD and flexible working, this is worth applying for promptly given the possibility of early interviews. For an informal conversation about the role, applicants can contact Sussanah.Heywood@somerset.gov.uk.