Location
Fostering Hub, 45 Bromley Road, SE6 2UA, South East London. Hybrid working with a mix of office and home-based work. Some evening and weekend recruitment activities required.

Hours
Full time, flexible working arrangements available.

Salary
£50,175 - £52,269 per annum SSW (SCP 35-37). All appointments offered at minimum SCP unless matching current salary with proof.

About the Role
Join the London Borough of Lewisham’s Fostering Recruitment and Retention Team as a Senior Social Worker based at the friendly Fostering Hub in Catford. You will be part of a dedicated team recruiting and assessing prospective foster carers to meet the diverse needs of children in care across Lewisham. Key responsibilities include undertaking Form F assessments, participating in marketing and recruitment events, supporting information sessions and initial enquiries, conducting initial home visits, providing clear guidance to prospective carers on fostering impacts, attending fostering panels to present assessments, facilitating pre and post panel training and support groups, supporting less experienced colleagues, and contributing to group supervision. This role offers excellent training and development opportunities alongside a range of benefits including generous holiday allowance, Local Government Pension Scheme, flexible working and family friendly policies, season ticket and bicycle loans, staff discounts, and supportive staff networks.

Experience
Sound and thorough understanding of fostering recruitment and assessment processes. Experience in engaging and assessing prospective foster carers from diverse backgrounds. Knowledge of fostering regulations and standards.

About you
Passionate about meeting the needs of children in care. Creative and open approach to recruitment and assessment. Excellent interpersonal skills. Values communication and feedback. Able to inspire, motivate, and support colleagues. Committed to continuous professional development. Professionally curious with a balanced and reflective approach. Inclusive and collaborative working style. Responsible and solution-focused. Transparent and appreciative in enquiry.

Qualifications
Social work qualification and current registration with Social Work England required. The role is subject to a Basic/Enhanced DBS check.