Children Social Worker (independent Reviewing Officer) in Walsall, West Midlands

Job Title:
• Children’s Social Worker – Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO)

Location:
• Walsall, UK

Contract Type:
• Locum, Ongoing, Full Time or Part Time

Salary:
• £38.00 per hour

Job Purpose:
• To act as an Independent Reviewing Officer, ensuring the welfare, safety, and best interests of children in care are prioritised at all times
• To provide independent oversight of care planning and decision-making for children and young people
• To promote high standards of practice and ensure statutory responsibilities are met

Key Responsibilities:
• Chair statutory reviews for children in care, ensuring reviews are timely, thorough, and child-focused
• Independently monitor and review the progress of care plans, escalating concerns where plans are not effectively implemented
• Advocate for children and young people, ensuring their views, wishes, and feelings are central to all decisions
• Provide professional challenge and guidance to social workers and partner agencies to promote positive outcomes
• Chair and contribute to multi-agency meetings, ensuring accountability and clear actions
• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, statutory guidance, and local policies
• Maintain accurate, high-quality records and reports in line with statutory requirements

Essential Requirements:
• Qualified Social Worker with current Social Work England registration
• Significant experience working with children in care and child protection services
• Experience of chairing reviews or strong suitability to work as an Independent Reviewing Officer
• Excellent communication, decision-making, and report-writing skills
• Ability to work independently while maintaining professional relationships across services

Perks and Benefits:
• Locum Flexibility: Choose working patterns that suit your lifestyle, with both full-time and part-time options available
• Competitive Pay: £38.00 per hour, reflecting your experience and responsibilities
• Professional Development: Gain valuable experience within an IRO role and broaden your expertise in children’s services
• Work-Life Balance: Greater control over your schedule to balance work and personal commitments
• Supportive Environment: Work within a collaborative team that values professional judgement and best practice

Why Walsall:
• Centrally located in the West Midlands with excellent transport links
• A strong sense of community with access to green spaces, local amenities, and cultural heritage
• Ideal location for professionals seeking both career development and quality of life

About Sanctuary Personnel:
• A trusted and award-winning recruitment agency specialising in social care and healthcare roles
• Rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot with over 1,000 reviews
• Dedicated to securing competitive rates and roles tailored to your skills and experience
• Providing ongoing support throughout your locum placement

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Children’s Social Worker looking to take on an Independent Reviewing Officer role while benefiting from the flexibility and rewards of locum work in a well-connected and supportive location.