Social Worker – LAC / Care Leavers Team

Specialism / Department: Children’s Social Care – Looked After Children / Care Leavers
Location: Bolton, UK
Salary / Pay Rate: £37 per hour
Contract Type: Locum / Ongoing
Working Pattern: Full-Time / Part-Time 

Role Overview

A fantastic locum opportunity is available for an experienced Social Worker to join Bolton Council’s Looked After Children (LAC) / Care Leavers Team. This position focuses on supporting young people aged 16–25 as they transition from care into adulthood and independence. With hybrid working arrangements and flexible hours, this role offers the ideal balance between autonomy, meaningful work, and professional growth.

You will be a key part of a dedicated and highly supportive Children’s Services team, ensuring statutory responsibilities are met while empowering young people to build stable, confident futures. This ongoing role provides the scope to work independently while also collaborating with partner agencies across housing, education, and health.

Perks and Benefits

• Flexible Working: Choose full‑time or part‑time hours with excellent home‑working options.
• Competitive Pay: Earn £37 per hour for your expertise and commitment.
• Professional Development: Access training, reflective support, and opportunities to enhance your practice.
• Supportive Management: Work with an experienced leadership team invested in your wellbeing.
• Multi‑Agency Collaboration: Build strong professional networks across partner services.
• Meaningful Work: Support young people transitioning from care into independence.

Key Responsibilities / What You Will Do

• Manage a caseload of Looked After Children and Care Leavers, ensuring statutory duties are met.
• Create, update, and review detailed Pathway Plans in partnership with young people and professionals.
• Provide emotional and practical support as young people prepare for independent living.
• Conduct statutory visits, assessments, and reviews in accordance with legislation and local procedures.
• Work collaboratively with personal advisers, housing teams, education providers, and health professionals.
• Promote safety and wellbeing by identifying risks and responding to safeguarding concerns.
• Maintain high‑quality, accurate case records and documentation.
• Support young people to access accommodation, education, training, and employment opportunities.

Requirements / Candidate Criteria

Essential

• Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work degree or equivalent.
• Registered with Social Work England.
• Previous experience in LAC, Leaving Care, or related children’s services.
• Strong understanding of children’s legislation, including leaving care frameworks.
• Excellent communication, assessment, and case management skills.
• Ability to work effectively within a multi‑agency environment.

Desirable

• Prior experience in a local authority Leaving Care or LAC team.
• Knowledge of Pathway Planning and transitional support for young people.
• Experience supporting young people with complex needs.

Why Bolton

Bolton offers an excellent mix of urban amenities, strong community values, and beautiful surrounding countryside. With a welcoming atmosphere, vibrant town centre, and outstanding transport links, it provides the perfect balance of convenience and quality of life. From cultural attractions to scenic outdoor spaces, Bolton is an enjoyable location for both work and personal life — ideal for social work professionals looking for a supportive and inspiring environment.

Working with Sanctuary Personnel

Sanctuary Personnel is an award‑winning and reputable recruitment agency with an Excellent Trustpilot rating from over 1,000 reviews. They are dedicated to securing competitive pay, high‑quality locum roles, and exceptional candidate support throughout every stage of your placement. With Sanctuary, you’ll benefit from a smooth, personalised, and professional recruitment experience.