Bedford Borough Council Social Worker Children in Care Team Pay Rate: £37 per hour Hours: 37 per week Contract: Locum About the Role Bedford Borough Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join its Children in Care Team. You will work with looked after children and young people, ensuring they receive high-quality care, stability, and support to achieve positive long-term outcomes. This role involves working closely with foster carers, residential providers, and multi-agency partners to deliver effective care planning and secure permanence for children. Key Responsibilities Manage a caseload of children in care. Complete statutory visits, assessments, and reviews. Develop and progress care and permanence plans. Work closely with foster carers, residential settings, and partner agencies. Prepare high-quality reports for reviews and court proceedings where required. Undertake direct work with children and young people. Support transitions to independence and adulthood. Practice Model Used by Bedford Bedford Borough Council uses a Strengths-Based Practice Model, supported by Signs of Safety. This approach focuses on: Building strong, trusting relationships with children and families Collaborative and transparent working Clear and structured risk assessment Effective safety planning Reflective supervision and continuous professional development The model supports consistent, child-centred practice and positive outcomes. Interested? To apply, please send your CV to: