Founded in 2012, Sheldon Phillips is a niche Social Work recruitment agency supplying both locum and permanent staff into the Qualified Social Work sector.With nearly 15 years experience in the Social Care sector, we focus our time on you. Your job search is personal and everyone is different, so our consultants are trained to ensure your job search is as unique as you are.

Our team are highly trained to deal with any questions you have, even if you just want some advice on where your career can go. From first year students, to experienced Heads of Service, we are here to answer any questions you might have.

APSCo Members since 2016, we go out of our way to show that we are 100% compliant as an agency. As one of the most respected recruitment bodies, APSCo embrace the Social Work and Social Care sectors whole heartedly and ensure all members are working hard to uphold their reputation.

At Sheldon Phillips, we pride ourselves on our personal service for both candidates and clients. We work differently to other agencies be getting to know you. Listening is our best skill because we want to hear what you have to say!

Founder and Managing Director, Jamie Trick entered the Social Care sector for the first time, building a successful locum recruitment desk. Working hard to build his reputation within the sector, Jamie made sure to adhere to his 5 core and key values - Honest, Excellence, Transparency, Caring and Integrity.

Sheldon Phillips was created with the goal of providing a less corporate, more personal style of recruitment into the sector. Starting from a small base in West Berkshire, the company started to grow and rapidly become a key supplier to a number of Local Authorities in London and the South East.

Mid 2022 saw Managing Director Jamie Trick become APSCo Chair for Social Work across the United Kingdom. Leading meetings with Social Work members and helping to shape delivery of content from APSCo for their members, Jamie has thrown himself into the role, bringing with him our key company viaues.

Brand new modern offices in Newbury coupled with a fantastic re brand for the business signalled the sign of a new dawn for Sheldon Phillips. With ambitious growth plans that are ramping up into 2024 and beyond, now really is the time to join us on our journey

We are proud to partner with a large number of clients across London and the South East of England. We have recently expanded our operations into the Midlands and here we have a small selection of our happy clients.

We provide you with Permanent and Temporary jobs across the UK and have access to the best jobs in Social Care. Recruitment isn’t about finding a person for a job, it’s about finding the right person for the right job; which is why we invest time to fully understand the needs of our candidates, ensuring our service is perfectly tailored to your requirements.

At Sheldon Phillips we work hard to find the best jobs for the best Social Workers! If you know any friends or colleagues that are Qualified Social Workers, we offer up to £500 as a referral bonus if we place them into work. Speak to our team for the full T's &amp; C's

Hundreds of happy candidates achieve their success in Social Work.

After sending your CV to us, you will receive a call from one of our experienced consultants to discuss your job search in detail.

Let's Talk!

Now it's our turn to put in some hard work and start collecting your previous references. We will also set up a meeting so we can follow Home Office rules and see your original documentation. The coffee is on us!

Compliance Checks

Now it's your chance to shine in front of our clients. We will offer you full and in-depth interview prep to ensure you are happy days in advance of interviews too. We will give you all of our advice and knowledge to make sure you have the tools to succeed

Interviews

We are proud to partner with a large number of clients across the whole of the UK. The majority of our operation is focussed on the South and South West of England, however we now have a commanding presence in the Midlands and North of England. Here we have a small selection of our happy clients! If you are looking for good quality, experienced Qualified Social Workers, click the link below to submit your vacancy to our fantastic team!

Locum or Permanent staffing, we have a solution that is as unique as your team!
Qualified Social Work is seeing a shortage of available staff across the sector. Whether you need locum or permanent staff, those experienced, hard working social workers are hard to find! That's why, at Sheldon Phillips we work pro actively to build relationships not just with available candidates, but we forge long term relationships with those that are not even looking!
We have been working in the sector since 2009 and over that time, we have built fantastic relationships with candidates who sometimes go on to become our clients too. By delivering a 1st class service, we know that when our candidates have friends or colleagues looking for work, they will happily tell them all about our team.

Are you a hiring manager working for a Local Authority, Charity, IFA, or other private organisation? Do you need fully compliant locum staff or even a permanent member of your team?

We take the time to listen to every candidate we speak to. This is a really key part of our service - this is not our job search, so we need to listen, understand and empathise. Only then can we provide the best recruitment experience.

Comprehensive Qualification

Before we even think about sending a CV to a client, we make sure that we have our compliance in order. Your children and families deserve to have fully vetted and safeguarded staff working on their cases, so we work hard to ensure this is done immediately. This saves you time and inconvenience before the interview process even begins!

Compliance

Then it's down to our candidate to wow you at interview! You just need to decide if you want them on board or not. As you can see, we do 90% of the work before you even receive a CV so you can trust that our candidates are right for you.

Completed Placement

A commutable distance from Reading, Basingstoke and Newbury, our office is in a fantastic location with free parking. Also, just a short walk from Newbury Racecourse Rail Station.

Our offices are based in Newbury

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Founded in 2012, Sheldon Phillips is a niche Social Work recruitment agency supplying both locum and permanent staff into the Qualified Social Work sector.
With nearly 18 years experience in the Social Care sector, we focus our time on you. Your job search is personal and everyone is different, so our consultants are trained to ensure your job search is as unique as you are.
Not looking for a job right now? Our team are highly trained to deal with any questions you have, even if you just want some advice on where your career can go. From first year students, to experienced Heads of Service, we are here to answer any questions you might have.
Want to know more? Connect with our consultants

At Sheldon Phillips we work hard to find the best jobs for the best Social Workers! If you know any friends or colleagues that are Qualified Social Workers, we offer up to &pound;500 as a referral bonus if we place them into work. Speak to our team for the full T's &amp; C's

Approved by hundreds of candidates and clients for our personal service.

<h3>Becoming a Qualified Social Worker can be one of the most rewarding things you can do.</h3>&nbsp;As a job and sector it comes with highly stressful and emotive situations, but you have the chance to affect real change for a family or vulnerable person. As business we work with Social Workers from a main grade level, Senior Social Worker/Practitioners, Assistant and Team Managers, all of the way up to Assistant Director and Director level. We are proud to offer a huge range of opportunities which range from locum and permanent jobs within Local Authorities, Charities, Independent Fostering Agencies and private businesses across the whole of the United Kingdom.

As an agency, we provide roles across the entire Social Work sector. So, whether you want to work within Children and Families, Adults services, Fostering, Family Courts, EDT or MASH; Sheldon Phillips can help you find your dream role!Becoming a Qualified Social Worker can be one of the most rewarding things you can do. As a job and sector it comes with highly stressful and emotive situations, but you have the chance to affect real change for a family or vulnerable person. As business we work with Social Workers from a main grade level, Senior Social Worker/Practitioners, Assistant and Team Managers, all of the way up to Assistant Director and Director level. We are proud to offer a huge range of opportunities which range from locum and permanent jobs within Local Authorities, Charities, Independent Fostering Agencies and private businesses across the whole of the South East of England.

Recruitment is a hard industry to work in. You have to be tenacious, work hard and really focus on your end goal to be successful. At Sheldon Phillips we reward our staff as a whole team, with great incentives - but we also reward you personally. Each consultant has their own, personalised incentive plan to ensure you are rewarded for each milestone from day 1 at the business! Read more below to discover why Sheldon Phillips should be the only Social Work agency you consider when looking for a new role!

Fine dining experiences, Directors' table lunches, all expenses paid nights out and annual trips are just some of the fantastic incentives on offer at Sheldon Phillips. As well as company incentives, consultants receive their own personal development plans to ensure there are small/medium wins for every step of their career plans. Scroll down to see some of our team photos!

What good is a market leading incentive scheme if you can't get career progression, right? We pride ourselves on promoting within, creating tomorrow's business leaders. With APSCo accredited training for new consultants, all the way up to Senior Management, we ensure you have the tools to succeed

Role: Advanced Practitioner

Location: London Borough Of Enfield

Team: Child Protection

Pay: Up to &pound;40 ph

Contract: Full-time Locum

In the office: 2 Days a week

OFSTED: Good

About the Role 
Enfield Borough Council is seeking an Advanced Practitioner to join our Child Protection Team. As an Advanced Practitioner, you will play a crucial role in providing high-quality support and guidance within a dynamic team, ensuring the safety and well-being of children and families in the local community. You will take on complex casework, mentor and support less experienced social workers, and contribute to the development of best practices within the team.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced social worker who has a passion for child protection and safeguarding. You will be able to use your expertise to support the development of others while managing a caseload of high-risk cases.

Key Responsibilities:

<ul>
	<li>
	Manage and assess complex child protection cases, ensuring appropriate interventions and safeguarding actions are taken.
	</li>
	<li>
	Offer expert advice and guidance to social workers and other professionals, helping to develop best practice and ensure children&rsquo;s safety is prioritized.
	</li>
	<li>
	Develop and implement care plans that are focused on the child&rsquo;s needs and ensure that these plans are regularly reviewed and updated.
	</li>
	<li>
	Conduct in-depth assessments of children at risk, identifying the level of need and potential harm, and recommending appropriate interventions.
	</li>
	<li>
	Work collaboratively with other agencies, including health, education, and law enforcement, to ensure that children and families receive the necessary support.
	</li>
	<li>
	Provide mentoring and supervision to junior staff, supporting their development and offering constructive feedback to enhance their practice.
	</li>
	<li>
	Attend and participate in meetings, reviews, and court hearings, preparing reports and giving evidence as required.
	</li>
	<li>
	Ensure that statutory requirements and deadlines are met, including the timely completion of case reports and assessments.
	</li>
</ul>

About You

We are looking for a committed and experienced social worker who has:

<ul>
	<li>
	Qualifications: A degree in Social Work and current registration with Social Work England.
	</li>
	<li>
	Experience: At least 3 years post-qualification experience in child protection or safeguarding, with a deep understanding of legislation and case management in child protection.
	</li>
	<li>
	Skills: Strong assessment, case management, report writing, and court experience, along with the ability to manage complex and high-risk cases.
	</li>
	<li>
	Leadership: Demonstrated experience in mentoring or supervising staff, with the ability to provide guidance and support to less experienced social workers.
	</li>
	<li>
	Attributes: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, resilience, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
	</li>
	<li>
	Other: A passion for child protection, safeguarding, and helping vulnerable children and families.
	</li>
</ul>

What We Offer

<ul>
	<li>
	Competitive Pay: Up to &pound;40 per hour in recognition of your advanced skills and experience.
	</li>
	<li>
	Hybrid Working: Flexible work arrangements to support a healthy work-life balance.
	</li>
	<li>
	Professional Development: Access to continuous training and development to enhance your career as an Advanced Practitioner.
	</li>
	<li>
	Supportive Team Environment: Regular supervision, peer support, and a collaborative team culture.
	</li>
	<li>
	Clear Career Path: Opportunities for progression within the London Borough of Enfield, supported by a dedicated management team.
	</li>
</ul>

Why choose Sheldon Phillips to find your next role? It's simple: we're not pushy or overly persistent. We understand that you want to be heard. Our priority is to proactively seek the roles you desire, not just the ones that benefit us financially.

Our success comes from making your job search our top priority.

Interested in learning more about the Advanced Practitioner role in London? Contact Josh Da Costa at 01635 226350.

Plus, refer a friend to us, and if we place them, you'll receive a generous &pound;300 referral bonus (terms and conditions apply). 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Advanced Practitioner-Child Protection

Role: Qualified Social Worker

Location: Harrow

Team: MASH

Pay: Up to &pound;38.50

Contract: Full-time Locum

In the office: 2 Days a week

OFSTED: Good

About the Role 
Harrow Borough Council is seeking a Qualified Social Worker to join our Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) team. In this role, you will be at the forefront of safeguarding children and vulnerable individuals, providing essential assessments and support in response to safeguarding concerns. As a key member of the MASH team, you will work closely with other professionals across health, education, police, and other agencies to ensure that children and families receive the right support at the right time.

This is an exciting opportunity for a social worker with experience in safeguarding and assessments to take on a challenging and rewarding caseload within a well-established and supportive team. You will be expected to make timely, well-informed decisions regarding child protection concerns and contribute to the overall effectiveness of the MASH.

Key Responsibilities:

<ul>
	<li>
	Conduct thorough assessments of children and families in response to safeguarding concerns, ensuring appropriate referrals and interventions are made.
	</li>
	<li>
	Work collaboratively with partner agencies, including health, education, and law enforcement, to gather relevant information and assess risk.
	</li>
	<li>
	Make critical decisions regarding the safety and welfare of children, ensuring that necessary protective actions are taken promptly.
	</li>
	<li>
	Manage a varied caseload of cases, responding to urgent safeguarding issues and ensuring compliance with statutory duties and timescales.
	</li>
	<li>
	Provide expert advice and guidance to colleagues within the MASH and other professionals involved in child protection.
	</li>
	<li>
	Ensure that all case documentation, reports, and assessments are completed accurately and in a timely manner.
	</li>
	<li>
	Participate in multi-disciplinary meetings and provide expert input into the decision-making process.
	</li>
	<li>
	Keep up to date with changes to legislation, policies, and best practices in safeguarding and child protection.
	</li>
</ul>

About You

We are looking for a dedicated and experienced social worker who has:

<ul>
	<li>
	Qualifications: A degree in Social Work and current registration with Social Work England.
	</li>
	<li>
	Experience: A minimum of 2 years post-qualification experience, with demonstrable experience in child protection, safeguarding, and assessment within a MASH or similar setting.
	</li>
	<li>
	Skills: Strong assessment, report writing, and decision-making skills. Ability to assess risk and make informed, evidence-based decisions.
	</li>
	<li>
	Collaboration: Experience working in a multi-agency environment and liaising with various professionals to ensure the best outcomes for children and families.
	</li>
	<li>
	Attributes: Strong communication skills, resilience, and a child-focused approach to safeguarding and protection.
	</li>
	<li>
	Other: Ability to work under pressure, manage a busy caseload, and meet tight deadlines.
	</li>
</ul>

What We Offer

<ul>
	<li>
	Competitive Pay: Up to &pound;38.50 per hour, in recognition of your skills and experience.
	</li>
	<li>
	Hybrid Working: Flexibility to work from home and the office to promote work-life balance.
	</li>
	<li>
	Professional Development: Access to training and career progression opportunities to enhance your social work skills.
	</li>
	<li>
	Supportive Team Environment: Regular supervision, peer support, and a collaborative team culture.
	</li>
	<li>
	Well-being Benefits: A comprehensive benefits package, including support for work-life balance and a stable and supportive work environment.
	</li>
</ul>

Why choose Sheldon Phillips to find your next role? It's simple: we're not pushy or overly persistent. We understand that you want to be heard. Our priority is to proactively seek the roles you desire, not just the ones that benefit us financially.

Our success comes from making your job search our top priority.

Interested in learning more about the Social Worker role in London? Contact Josh Da Costa at 01635 226350.

Plus, refer a friend to us, and if we place them, you'll receive a generous &pound;300 referral bonus (terms and conditions apply). 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Qualified Social Worker-MASH

Role: Qualified Social Worker

Team: Locality

Pay: Up to &pound;38 ph

Contract: Full-time Locum

In the office: Hybrid

OFSTED: Outstanding

About the Role 
Kent County Council is seeking a Qualified Social Worker to join our Children&rsquo;s Social Work Localities Team. In this dynamic role, you will work closely within local communities to provide critical support to children and families, with the primary goal of improving their safety, stability, and well-being. As part of our commitment to safeguarding and supporting vulnerable children, you&rsquo;ll have the opportunity to engage directly with families, assess their needs, and deliver interventions that foster positive outcomes.

Key Responsibilities:

<ul>
	<li>
	Conduct thorough assessments of children and families, formulating clear, actionable plans to address identified needs and risks.
	</li>
	<li>
	Work collaboratively with a network of partners, including schools, health professionals, and voluntary organizations, to provide holistic support to children and families in the local community.
	</li>
	<li>
	Develop and implement effective, child-centered interventions that promote safety, well-being, and resilience.
	</li>
	<li>
	Maintain up-to-date case records, ensuring compliance with Kent County Council&rsquo;s policies and statutory requirements.
	</li>
	<li>
	Conduct home visits and engage with families in the community to build strong, supportive relationships.
	</li>
	<li>
	Use critical reflection to assess the impact of interventions, adapting strategies as necessary to achieve the best outcomes for children.
	</li>
	<li>
	Attend and contribute to multi-agency meetings, including case conferences and reviews, providing clear and detailed reports as required.
	</li>
</ul>

About You

We are looking for a proactive, compassionate social worker with:

<ul>
	<li>
	Qualifications: Degree in Social Work and registration with Social Work England.
	</li>
	<li>
	Experience: Proven experience in children&rsquo;s social work, particularly in a localities team or community-based setting.
	</li>
	<li>
	Skills: Strong assessment, planning, and organizational skills, with a solution-focused approach to complex family situations.
	</li>
	<li>
	Attributes: Dedication to safeguarding children, ability to work independently as well as part of a collaborative team, and resilience in managing demanding situations.
	</li>
</ul>

What We Offer

<ul>
	<li>
	Competitive Pay: Up to &pound;38 per hour, recognizing the expertise you bring to the role.
	</li>
	<li>
	Flexible Working: Hybrid work arrangements to support a healthy work-life balance.
	</li>
	<li>
	Professional Development: Access to training and development opportunities to further enhance your skills and career progression.
	</li>
	<li>
	Supportive Environment: Regular supervision and access to resources to support you in delivering effective, quality social work.
	</li>
	<li>
	Comprehensive Support: The opportunity to work within a strong network of partners, leveraging a wide array of community resources.
	</li>
</ul>

Why choose Sheldon Phillips to find your next role? It's simple: we're not pushy or overly persistent. We understand that you want to be heard. Our priority is to proactively seek the roles you desire, not just the ones that benefit us financially.

Our success comes from making your job search our top priority.

Interested in learning more about the Social Worker&nbsp;role in Kent? Contact Fred Thomas at 01635 226350.

Plus, refer a friend to us, and if we place them, you'll receive a generous &pound;300 referral bonus (terms and conditions apply). 
&nbsp;

Qualified Social Worker-Children's Social Work

Role: Team Manager

Location: Devon County Council

Team: Fostering

Pay: Up to &pound;44 ph

Contract: Full-time Locum

In the office: Hybrid

About the Role 
Devon County Council is seeking an experienced Team Manager to lead our Fostering Team. This pivotal role is responsible for overseeing the support and development of foster carers, as well as ensuring the well-being and stability of children in foster placements. As Team Manager, you will manage a dedicated team of social workers and work closely with other professionals to deliver safe, high-quality fostering services across Devon.

The ideal candidate will bring robust management experience, a passion for fostering, and a commitment to achieving positive outcomes for children and young people. Your expertise will guide the team in assessing, training, and supporting foster carers, while ensuring that fostering services align with Devon&rsquo;s commitment to safeguarding and family stability.

Key Responsibilities:

<ul>
	<li>
	Lead, motivate, and manage a team of fostering social workers to ensure effective support and guidance for foster carers and children.
	</li>
	<li>
	Oversee assessments and reviews of foster placements, ensuring that high standards of care are maintained and documented in line with statutory requirements.
	</li>
	<li>
	Collaborate with other local authority teams and external agencies, including health, education, and therapeutic services, to provide a holistic approach to foster care.
	</li>
	<li>
	Manage and allocate resources effectively to ensure high standards of service delivery, promoting best practices within the team.
	</li>
	<li>
	Provide regular supervision and development opportunities for team members to support continuous learning and professional growth.
	</li>
	<li>
	Conduct quality assurance reviews, ensuring that all fostering assessments, support plans, and case files are up to date and comply with regulatory guidelines.
	</li>
	<li>
	Act as a key decision-maker in complex cases, applying critical thinking and fostering best practices to ensure child-centered placements.
	</li>
</ul>

About You

We are looking for a compassionate and resilient leader who has:

<ul>
	<li>
	Qualifications: Degree in Social Work and current Social Work England registration.
	</li>
	<li>
	Experience: Proven experience in a senior social work role within fostering or children&rsquo;s services, with prior experience as a manager or advanced practitioner preferred.
	</li>
	<li>
	Skills: Strong leadership, decision-making, and organizational skills, with the ability to manage a diverse team and workload effectively.
	</li>
	<li>
	Attributes: A commitment to safeguarding, exceptional communication, and a collaborative approach to working with foster carers, children, and partner agencies.
	</li>
</ul>

What We Offer

<ul>
	<li>
	Competitive Pay: Up to &pound;44 per hour, reflecting the senior responsibilities and expertise required for this role.
	</li>
	<li>
	Professional Development: Access to ongoing training, workshops, and development opportunities to support career growth.
	</li>
	<li>
	Supportive Environment: Join a team with a strong focus on collaboration, with access to supervision and resources to help you excel in your role.
	</li>
	<li>
	Flexible Working: Hybrid work options to support a healthy work-life balance, with some on-site work required for team and case management.
	</li>
</ul>

Why choose Sheldon Phillips to find your next role? It's simple: we're not pushy or overly persistent. We understand that you want to be heard. Our priority is to proactively seek the roles you desire, not just the ones that benefit us financially.

Our success comes from making your job search our top priority.

Interested in learning more about the Team Manager role in Devon? Contact Fred Thomas at 01635 226350.

Plus, refer a friend to us, and if we place them, you'll receive a generous &pound;300 referral bonus (terms and conditions apply). 
&nbsp;

Team Manager-Fostering

Role: Qualified Social Worker

Location: Devon County Council

Team: Pre birth Assessment

Pay: Up to &pound;44 ph

Contract: Full-time Locum

In the office: Hybrid

About the Role 
Devon County Council is seeking a Qualified Social Worker to join our Pre-Birth Assessment Team. In this crucial role, you will be responsible for undertaking pre-birth assessments, providing support to expectant parents, and planning for safe, stable futures for newborns at risk. Your work will play a vital role in early intervention, helping to safeguard vulnerable babies and support parents as they prepare for the demands of parenthood.

The ideal candidate will bring significant experience in child protection, assessment, and risk management. You will be part of a supportive, multi-disciplinary team dedicated to providing high-quality assessments and interventions that prioritize the well-being and safety of infants and their families.

Key Responsibilities:

<ul>
	<li>
	Conduct comprehensive pre-birth assessments to identify risks and support needs of expectant parents and their unborn child.
	</li>
	<li>
	Develop and implement pre-birth plans in collaboration with health professionals, midwives, and partner agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of the child.
	</li>
	<li>
	Provide targeted support to expectant parents, including signposting to relevant services, parenting support, and early intervention programs.
	</li>
	<li>
	Document assessments, plans, and interventions in line with statutory requirements and council policies, maintaining accurate and timely records.
	</li>
	<li>
	Work collaboratively with a range of professionals to create a holistic approach to support and safeguard newborns and families.
	</li>
	<li>
	Undertake visits to families, monitor progress, and adapt plans as needed to respond to changing family dynamics and risks.
	</li>
	<li>
	Prepare and present reports for court proceedings, where necessary, and provide expert testimony to support child safeguarding decisions.
	</li>
</ul>

About You

We are looking for a proactive and resilient social worker who has:

<ul>
	<li>
	Qualifications: Degree in Social Work and current registration with Social Work England.
	</li>
	<li>
	Experience: Substantial experience in child protection, pre-birth assessments, or related social work within children&rsquo;s services.
	</li>
	<li>
	Skills: Strong assessment, risk management, and planning skills, with the ability to engage effectively with families and professionals.
	</li>
	<li>
	Attributes: A commitment to safeguarding infants and supporting vulnerable families, with excellent communication skills and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
	</li>
</ul>

What We Offer

<ul>
	<li>
	Competitive Pay: Up to &pound;44 per hour, in recognition of the specialist skills and responsibilities of this role.
	</li>
	<li>
	Professional Development: Access to training and continuous development opportunities, supporting your growth in this specialized area.
	</li>
	<li>
	Supportive Team Environment: Join a dedicated team of professionals with a collaborative and supportive approach.
	</li>
	<li>
	Flexible Working: Hybrid work arrangement to support work-life balance, with a mix of home-based and office work required.
	</li>
</ul>

Why choose Sheldon Phillips to find your next role? It's simple: we're not pushy or overly persistent. We understand that you want to be heard. Our priority is to proactively seek the roles you desire, not just the ones that benefit us financially.

Our success comes from making your job search our top priority.

Interested in learning more about the Social Worker role in Devon? Contact Fred Thomas at 01635 226350.

Plus, refer a friend to us, and if we place them, you'll receive a generous &pound;300 referral bonus (terms and conditions apply). 
&nbsp;

Qualified Social Worker- Pre Birth

Role: Qualified Social Worker

Location: Royal Borough Of Kensington and Chelsea&nbsp;

Team: Localities

Pay: Up to &pound;38.50 ph

Contract: Full-time Locum

In the office: Hybrid- 4 days a week

OFSTED: Outstanding

About the Role 
The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea is seeking a Qualified Social Worker to join our Localities Team. This is an exciting opportunity to work in a dynamic and vibrant borough, focusing on delivering high-quality support and interventions to children and families in the local community. As a Qualified Social Worker, you will be working within a multi-disciplinary team to assess needs, manage caseloads, and support families in achieving positive outcomes.

The ideal candidate will bring substantial experience in children&rsquo;s services, with a sound knowledge of child protection, child in need, and family support work. This is an excellent opportunity for a social worker looking to work in a fast-paced environment with access to excellent professional development opportunities.

Key Responsibilities:

<ul>
	<li>
	Undertake comprehensive assessments of children and families, identifying needs, risks, and providing appropriate interventions.
	</li>
	<li>
	Develop and implement care plans for children and families, ensuring that plans are tailored to individual needs and take into account the views of children and parents.
	</li>
	<li>
	Work collaboratively with other professionals, including health, education, and housing teams, to provide a multi-agency approach to support and safeguarding.
	</li>
	<li>
	Provide ongoing support and monitoring of cases, ensuring that interventions are effective and objectives are met.
	</li>
	<li>
	Manage a caseload that includes complex cases, ensuring that statutory requirements, procedures, and deadlines are met.
	</li>
	<li>
	Produce accurate and timely reports for meetings, reviews, and court proceedings where required.
	</li>
	<li>
	Maintain and update case records in accordance with statutory and local requirements, ensuring that they are comprehensive, up-to-date, and accurate.
	</li>
	<li>
	Provide guidance and support to junior social workers, promoting a learning culture within the team.
	</li>
</ul>

About You

We are looking for a dedicated and professional social worker who has:

<ul>
	<li>
	Qualifications: A degree in Social Work and current registration with Social Work England.
	</li>
	<li>
	Experience: A minimum of 2 years post-qualification experience in children&rsquo;s services, with experience in child protection, child in need, and family support.
	</li>
	<li>
	Skills: Strong assessment, case management, and report-writing skills, with the ability to engage effectively with families and external professionals.
	</li>
	<li>
	Attributes: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, a commitment to safeguarding children and young people, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
	</li>
</ul>

What We Offer

<ul>
	<li>
	Competitive Pay: Up to &pound;38.50 per hour, in recognition of your skills and experience.
	</li>
	<li>
	Professional Development: Access to training, learning, and development opportunities to enhance your practice and career.
	</li>
	<li>
	Supportive Environment: A collaborative team culture, with regular supervision and support from management.
	</li>
	<li>
	Flexible Working: Hybrid work arrangements to provide flexibility and support a healthy work-life balance.
	</li>
	<li>
	Great Location: Work in one of London&rsquo;s most vibrant boroughs, with excellent transport links and proximity to central London.
	</li>
</ul>

Why choose Sheldon Phillips to find your next role? It's simple: we're not pushy or overly persistent. We understand that you want to be heard. Our priority is to proactively seek the roles you desire, not just the ones that benefit us financially.

Our success comes from making your job search our top priority.

Interested in learning more about the Social Worker role in London? Contact Josh Da Costa at 01635 226350.

Plus, refer a friend to us, and if we place them, you'll receive a generous &pound;300 referral bonus (terms and conditions apply). 
&nbsp;

Qualified Social Worker- Localities

Role: Qualified Social Worker

Location: Croydon

Team: Child Protection

Pay: Up to &pound;48,000 + Travel allowance+ &pound;2500&nbsp;

Contract: Permanent

In the office: 2 Days a week

&nbsp;OFSTED: Good

About the Role 
Croydon Council is seeking a Qualified Social Worker to join our Child Protection Team. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families, working in a fast-paced and supportive environment. As a Qualified Social Worker, you will be responsible for safeguarding children, managing complex cases, and delivering effective interventions to ensure the safety and well-being of children in need.

The ideal candidate will have a passion for child protection work, experience in managing high-risk cases, and a commitment to promoting positive outcomes for children and families. You will benefit from a supportive team, regular supervision, and a clear career development pathway.

Key Responsibilities:

<ul>
	<li>
	Conduct assessments of children at risk, ensuring that all necessary interventions and safeguarding actions are taken.
	</li>
	<li>
	Develop and implement care plans that are child-focused and take into account the specific needs and risks of the child and family.
	</li>
	<li>
	Carry out visits to children, families, and other professionals to assess the situation and ensure that children are being safeguarded effectively.
	</li>
	<li>
	Provide expert advice and support to children, families, and partner agencies to help address the risks and challenges identified.
	</li>
	<li>
	Liaise with other professionals and agencies such as health, education, and law enforcement to coordinate support and services for children and families.
	</li>
	<li>
	Prepare and present clear and detailed reports for case reviews, meetings, and court proceedings.
	</li>
	<li>
	Manage a caseload of complex child protection cases, ensuring statutory requirements are met, and appropriate actions are taken.
	</li>
	<li>
	Support and mentor less experienced colleagues, offering guidance and advice to help them develop their skills.
	</li>
</ul>

About You

We are looking for a motivated, compassionate social worker who has:

<ul>
	<li>
	Qualifications: A degree in Social Work and current registration with Social Work England.
	</li>
	<li>
	Experience: Significant post-qualification experience in child protection or safeguarding, with a strong understanding of legislation, policies, and procedures.
	</li>
	<li>
	Skills: Strong assessment, case management, and report writing skills, as well as the ability to manage complex and high-risk cases.
	</li>
	<li>
	Attributes: Excellent communication skills, resilience in the face of challenges, and a commitment to the welfare of children and families.
	</li>
	<li>
	Other: Ability to work independently and as part of a team, manage a varied caseload, and be flexible with work location requirements.
	</li>
</ul>

What We Offer

<ul>
	<li>
	Competitive Salary: Up to &pound;48,000 per annum, plus a &pound;2,500 retention bonus.
	</li>
	<li>
	Hybrid Working: Flexible working arrangements to promote work-life balance.
	</li>
	<li>
	Professional Development: Access to training, learning, and development opportunities to enhance your social work career.
	</li>
	<li>
	Supportive Team: A collaborative and inclusive team environment with regular supervision and guidance from senior staff.
	</li>
	<li>
	Work-Life Balance: Generous leave entitlement, flexible working, and additional staff benefits.
	</li>
	<li>
	Clear Career Path: Opportunities to progress within Croydon Council, with support for further training and professional development.
	</li>
</ul>

Why choose Sheldon Phillips to find your next role? It's simple: we're not pushy or overly persistent. We understand that you want to be heard. Our priority is to proactively seek the roles you desire, not just the ones that benefit us financially.

Our success comes from making your job search our top priority.

Interested in learning more about the Social Worker role in London? Contact Josh Da Costa at 01635 226350.

Plus, refer a friend to us, and if we place them, you'll receive a generous &pound;300 referral bonus (terms and conditions apply). 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Qualified Social Worker-Child Protection

Role: Independent Reviewing Officer

Location: Rochdale

Team: Looked After Children

Pay: Up to &pound;40 ph

Contract: Full-time Locum&nbsp;

In the office: Hybrid

About the Role 
Rochdale Council is seeking an experienced, highly motivated, and enthusiastic Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) to join our Looked After Children Team. This role is essential to ensure that children in care receive the highest standards of care and support, and that their needs are always at the forefront of our work. The successful candidate will carry out reviews in line with the IRO Handbook, advocating for the best interests of each child and ensuring that care plans are both effective and reflective of the child&rsquo;s voice.

Key Responsibilities

<ul>
	<li>
	Conduct Cared for Child reviews for children and young people in care, ensuring that their needs are met and their voices are heard in line with the IRO Handbook.
	</li>
	<li>
	Monitor and review care plans, making recommendations and intervening as needed to ensure that all plans are achieving positive outcomes.
	</li>
	<li>
	Work collaboratively with social workers, foster carers, families, and other professionals, building a holistic approach to support each child&rsquo;s well-being and development.
	</li>
	<li>
	Provide independent oversight of cases to ensure statutory responsibilities and timelines are met, advocating for the child&rsquo;s best interests.
	</li>
	<li>
	Challenge practice and support high standards, advocating for children when care plans do not meet expected standards or when improvements are necessary.
	</li>
</ul>

About You

We are looking for an experienced IRO with a strong background in social work and direct experience working with Looked After Children. The ideal candidate will have:

<ul>
	<li>
	Qualifications: Degree in Social Work and registration with Social Work England.
	</li>
	<li>
	Experience: Significant post-qualifying experience in social work, ideally as a Senior Social Worker or Advanced Practitioner, with a deep understanding of Cared for Children and safeguarding.
	</li>
	<li>
	Skills: Comprehensive knowledge of the IRO Handbook, care planning regulations, and best practices for Looked After Children.
	</li>
	<li>
	Attributes: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, a proactive approach to problem-solving, and a commitment to advocating for children&rsquo;s rights.
	</li>
</ul>

Why choose Sheldon Phillips to find your next role? It's simple: we're not pushy or overly persistent. We understand that you want to be heard. Our priority is to proactively seek the roles you desire, not just the ones that benefit us financially.

Our success comes from making your job search our top priority.

Interested in learning more about the Independent Reviewing Officer role in Rochdale? Contact Emily Cooper at&nbsp;ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com Or&nbsp;

&nbsp;07902371315

Plus, refer a friend to us, and if we place them, you'll receive a generous &pound;300 referral bonus (terms and conditions apply). 
&nbsp;

Independent Reviewing Officer- Looked After Children

Role: Team Manager

Location: Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council

Team: Fostering

Pay: Up to &pound;45 ph

Contract: Full-time Locum

In the office: Hybrid

About the Role 
Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council is seeking an experienced Team Manager to oversee both our Fostering Team and the Connected Persons Team. This unique role will include direct management of a large number of Independent Social Workers (ISWs) commissioned to carry out connected persons assessments, providing essential support and ensuring high-quality standards in fostering and connected persons placements.

This role will require close collaboration with various departments, including Legal and the Panel Advisor, to ensure efficient assessment processes and adherence to regulatory guidelines.

Key Responsibilities:

<ul>
	<li>
	Collaborate closely with the Legal Department to manage regulatory requirements and foster placements.
	</li>
	<li>
	Oversee the allocation, midpoint, and final review processes for ISWs conducting connected persons assessments.
	</li>
	<li>
	Maintain oversight of checks and references for each case to ensure compliance and high standards.
	</li>
	<li>
	Work closely with the Panel Advisor to schedule assessments with the Foster Care Panel.
	</li>
	<li>
	Monitor and manage Regulation 24 assessments, ensuring placements remain regulated and that any applications for Regulation 25 extensions are processed promptly.
	</li>
</ul>

About You

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in social work management, particularly in fostering and connected persons assessments. Key skills and experience include:

<ul>
	<li>
	Qualifications: Degree in Social Work and registration with Social Work England.
	</li>
	<li>
	Experience: Significant experience in fostering, connected persons assessments, and team management, ideally with experience handling independent social workers.
	</li>
	<li>
	Skills: Strong organizational, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills; solid understanding of Regulation 24 and 25 requirements and fostering panel processes.
	</li>
	<li>
	Teamwork: Excellent communication and collaboration skills, particularly in liaising with legal departments and other professionals.
	</li>
</ul>

Why choose Sheldon Phillips to find your next role? It's simple: we're not pushy or overly persistent. We understand that you want to be heard. Our priority is to proactively seek the roles you desire, not just the ones that benefit us financially.

Our success comes from making your job search our top priority.

Interested in learning more about the Team Manager role in Tameside? Contact Emily Cooper at&nbsp;

&nbsp;ecooper@sheldon-phillips.com Or 07902371315

Plus, refer a friend to us, and if we place them, you'll receive a generous &pound;300 referral bonus (terms and conditions apply). 
&nbsp;

<h2>This is a wonderful poem written by Charmaine Malcolm, a fellow of Frontline:</h2>
 Dear social worker, Waking up over the past few weeks to reports in the media that social workers are child killers, baby snatchers and evil people. Well, it simply is not true. There have been many children whose lives have been ended prematurely, by people they expected to protect them and not one of them died at the hands of their social worker, not one. Social worker, whilst you are a valuable resource to the nation you are not yet as respected as other professionals, your profession has had significant fiscal deficits and this has affected recruitment, retention, resources, caseloads and of course morale. Social worker I know you work compassionately and meaningfully with children, because you know how important it is to secure better outcomes for the children you see. Social worker, each day you wake up with a passion to help the most vulnerable members of our society, during the pandemic you have been instrumental in keeping children safe. You continued to visit children, you went the extra mile, you responded to increased complexity without additional resources, you worked whilst experiencing your own trauma and personal problems. You supported the sickness and significant bereavements without community and within your personal lives. You navigated new government systems to help our families where poverty became their new normal and food banks became their life supply. You supported families when their universal credit was reduced, you have seen mental health complexity increase amongst parents, children and amongst work colleagues. You have been exhausted, you have worked during your annual leave, you continue to come into work when you are unwell, you are anxious about your workload piling up and do not want to be a burden to colleagues. Social worker, you are always thinking, ever thoughtful, loving and kind. You visit families where at times the risks are unknown, no baton, no shield, no panic alarm yet you boldly go.&nbsp; I can imagine there have been times when your knees were knocking, armpits sweating and your thoughts were &ldquo;oh no&rdquo;, but you stayed, because your heart is full of gold and you go with the motto &ldquo;I&rsquo;ll leave no stone unturned, hell no.&rdquo; Social worker did you know that you not only keep children safe, but you also save lives. Just take a moment to&hellip;wait&hellip;what&rsquo;s the word&hellip;be reflective, stop, think and say &ldquo;ohhh.&rdquo; I helped a child live in a safer environment outside of their family home, I helped a child tell their story to the police when they were sexually abused, it was clear that the shouting and violence between the parents were too much for the child and you said &ldquo;oh no, this cannot go on any longer.&rdquo; You used your research to make an evidenced based decision and you social worker helped those parents create a safer home. Social worker, I valued so much when that mum, do you remember her she said she felt a bit low, you helped her understand her baby blues and again you said let&rsquo;s go. Off to the GP you go, mum receives the help she needs, but still you could not let it go. Organising a family group conference, helping the family develop a plan, your words &ldquo;it must be meaningful&rdquo; and you were intentional to help the family create a &lsquo;meaningful plan.&rsquo; Social worker do you remember your words &ldquo;mum can have time to JustBe&rsquo; and how wonderful it was to see the babies care supported by the wider family.&nbsp; Social worker that was you, you took the time to think and see what was needed for the mum and baby. I mean, I could go on at telling you how fabulous you are. So, you twisted my arm, close your eyes and listen to these words: you are amazing, spectacular, tremendous, energetic, wonderful, insightful, curious, exceptional, child centred, thoughtful, compassionate, kind, empathetic, research minded, reflective, awesome, skilled, professional and the reality is I could tell you how valuable and fabulous you are for hours. Each day commit to taking 5 minutes to stop and reflect on you and what you bring to the profession. Social worker think about all the miracles you make happen. Social worker you are warm, kind, strong, compassionate and full of strength. I see you, I hear you and grateful you&rsquo;re still here. Social worker the media are still learning how to respect your profession and right now you are going to rise up and not succumb to their oppression. Be courageous, be strong, be vocal and be bold because you dearest social worker are one of the mightiest and most cherished people we have in our nation overall.

'Dear Social Worker....'

<h5>We want to help change the public perception of Social Work and focus on what makes our sector such a good place to be! Yes there will always be issues as in any line of work, but being a Social Worker can bring so much satisfaction and positivity, especially when positively affecting change in the life of a person in need. Here is the first in a series of good news stories from real Social Workers, sharing their real stories. We hope you enjoy.</h5>
I was in my local Aldi queuing up with my shopping where a man stood behind me with a 11 ish year old boy. The 11 year old was huffing that there was a queue and that they should open more tills, I chuckled to myself and turned round and said &lsquo;You&rsquo;re not wrong there!&rsquo; The young boy look familiar and so did the older male he was with. It instantly clicked, he was a child that I had removed from his parents during the pandemic due to long standing neglect and his parents alcohol and drug use. The wider family were desperately sad that they couldn&rsquo;t have him long term but he was destined for great things. It was a case I was covering on behalf of my colleague whilst she was off sick- I had only met him maybe 5/6 times before I had to issue proceedings, there was always something so loveable about him. A care order was granted and it was agreed for him to go into long term foster care, his parents didn&rsquo;t contest the care plan and have never turned up to contact. I immediately said &lsquo;are you (Childs name)?&rsquo; He said yes! I introduced myself to him and said do you remember me? He took a second, I think because I was out of work clothes, in his local Aldi and didn&rsquo;t look my usual professional self. He said YES! He instantly hugged me and said &lsquo;thank you, I love my foster family.&rsquo;
I was gobsmacked at his response- he told me how he was moving up to senior school, he sees his wider family once a month for the weekend and loves his foster brother. The foster carer also put two and two together and recognised me and told me how well he was doing and how proud they were.
Whilst still waiting in the queue the foster carer quickly ran to grab something he forgot- I had a brief moment with him alone when I said &lsquo;are you sure you&rsquo;re happy?&rsquo; The young boy said his views with conviction and that he truly was happy. And I believe him.
We paid for our shopping and continue to have a catch up chat, he asked how my dog was and whether I still had the &lsquo;nice car&rsquo; that I drove him from his parents to placement in. He was so brave that day.
I wished him well and told him that if he ever saw me to come and say hello, he promised he would and we had a farewell hug, instigated by him. I packed my shopping in my car and sat there full with emotion, but happy emotions that he was doing more than just ok.
Social worker is ever demanding, ever stressful and ever scrutinised. Yet moments like that, that really do catch you off guard with real success stories are the reason we do our job. I will forever remember the bravery of him and the power of loving foster carers.
<h5>Have you got a story you would like to share with us? Contact our team on 01635 226 350 or send over your experiences via email to hello@sheldon-phillips.com</h5>

Good News Story #1

<h3>Explanation of the new IR35 Legislation, our thoughts and what Sheldon Phillips are doing to help you with the new changes.</h3>
 Following a lengthy consultation period in August of 2016, HMRC have confirmed that their planned legislation change to IR35 will go ahead, taking effect on 6th April 2017. Sheldon Phillips have been heavily involved with the consultation meetings with HMRC and our industry body, the REC. As well as a written letter to HMRC, we also took the opportunity to directly write to the Chancellor of The Exchequer and the Secretary of State for Education and Child Protection. You may have seen our letter on our website and also on Linkedin. In short, anyone falling &ldquo;inside IR35 legislation&rdquo; will be subject to deemed employment dedications which will be made by the entity that pays the worker using their own Ltd Company (PSC) which in most cases will be the Recruitment Agency, i.e. Sheldon Phillips. Off Payroll Explained Off payroll describes anyone who is paid out side of normal PAYE processes; so anyone using their own Limited Company (PSC) would be categorized under this term.
<h4>Current Process</h4>
Under the current legislation, the liability to pay all deemed employment taxes falls on the Ltd Company &ndash; Income Tax, National Insurance and Employers NI contributions. If you fall outside of IR35, you would traditionally take a lower salary via payroll and then take dividends from the company, therefore paying less tax. Falling inside IR35 means that your income is deemed as employed income, therefore income tax, etc should be paid to HMRC in the normal way. HMRC estimate there are more than 200,000 Limited Company&rsquo;s in the UK and by their own admission, cannot allocate enough resource to investigate whether each company is operating in the correct way.
​
<h4>Moving Forward</h4>
From April 6th 2017 when the new legislation is introduced, HMRC will move the liability to make deemed employment payments for workers operating their own Ltd Company to the entity who pays the invoice; Sheldon Phillips. There are a number of criteria that would place a worker within IR35 legislation but the main parameters for this would be if the worker is providing a personal service, if they are subject to supervision, direction and control and also the right to provide a substitute. Due to the Professional code of practice and criteria from both BASW and the HCPC it is our belief that all social workers will be subject to the new changes within IR35 legislation. Receiving supervision or working in a controlled way is something all social workers are subject to and as a contractor, you cannot simply send a substitute worker to carry on with your allocated cases should you not be able to attend work in your assignment. That person would be subject to an interview process, compliance checks and it would not provide continuity or stability to the service users of the authority, therefore it would not be accepted.
Local Authorities and MSP&rsquo;s In the coming weeks, once official communication has been received by HMRC, Local Authorities and MSP&rsquo;s (Matrix, REED, De Poel) will need to decide on their own action regarding these changes and in some cases, may mean that using a PSC (Ltd Company) will simply not be allowed. Other options available will be to use a compliant Umbrella Company and for your agency to put you through their own PAYE processes. In practice, going through agency PAYE will dramatically reduce your hourly rate and so it is our understanding that you will be better off using a compliant Umbrella Company, through which you will be eligible for employment rights like holiday pay, sick pay, etc. Our Commitment To You To ensure that these changes are handled correctly and to avoid any disruption to your assignments, we at Sheldon Phillips are here to help guide you through every step of the way. We will be arranging an event in London for all of our Social Workers to attend, along with any colleagues who would be interested to talk about the legislation face to face and provide you with viable options for compliant Umbrella Companies. There will be a dedicated Q&amp;A section to try and put any concerns you have to rest, so you can concentrate on your busy working lives. This will be communicated shortly via email, our website and on Linkedin.

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'Dear Social Worker....'

Good News Story #1

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