Consultant Social Worker in Merton, London

Consultant Social Worker 

Job Title: Consultant Social Worker 
Specialism: Social Worker – Children’s (Family Support & Safeguarding)
Location: Merton, London, UK
Salary: £41.10 per hour
Contract Type: Ongoing (3–6 Months)
Working Pattern: Part Time / Full Time (Hybrid – Office Attendance 3 Days per Week)
Start Date: ASAP

About the Role

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a locum Consultant Social Worker to join the Family Support and Safeguarding Service in Merton. This ongoing role offers a competitive hourly rate of £41.10, flexible working arrangements, and hybrid working with office attendance required just three days per week.

You will be part of a forward-thinking and high-performing service, rated Outstanding by Ofsted, where collaboration, systemic practice and continuous learning are embedded into everyday work. This role provides the chance to take a lead in your chosen area of practice while mentoring and supporting colleagues.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Practice Development

• Provide high-level support and mentorship to social workers, including ASYEs and students

• Act as a Practice Educator and role model for excellent social work practice

• Lead in a chosen practice area, driving innovation and continuous improvement

• Support the Team Manager in maintaining high standards of service delivery

Direct Work with Children & Families

• Work with families experiencing complex and significant needs

• Ensure children receive timely and effective safeguarding interventions

• Deliver relationship-based and strengths-focused social work support

Service Model & Multi-Agency Collaboration

• Practice within Merton’s blended model, including Systemic Practice, Relationship-Based Social Work, Signs of Safety and trauma-informed approaches

• Build and maintain strong partnerships with multi-agency professionals

• Contribute to safeguarding strategies and service development initiatives

Team Collaboration

• Work collaboratively alongside five social workers and a dedicated Child and Family Worker

• Promote reflective practice and a culture of shared learning

• Support service improvements aligned with the vision of safe, nurturing outcomes for children

Requirements

• Social Work England registration

• Degree or equivalent qualification in Social Work

• Significant post-qualifying experience within Children’s Social Care

• Experience mentoring, supervising or supporting less experienced practitioners

• Strong knowledge of safeguarding legislation and statutory frameworks

• Ability to work effectively within hybrid and multi-agency environments

Perks and Benefits

• Competitive hourly rate of £41.10

• Hybrid working (office attendance three days per week)

• Flexible part-time or full-time options

• Opportunity to work within an Ofsted Outstanding service

• Ongoing professional development and leadership opportunities

• Gain valuable locum experience within a supportive, high-performing team

Why Merton?

Located in South West London, Merton offers a vibrant and diverse community with excellent transport links, beautiful green spaces and a strong local identity. Blending historic charm with modern amenities, it provides an ideal setting for both professional fulfilment and quality of life.

Working with Sanctuary Personnel

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When you work with Sanctuary Personnel, you will receive dedicated consultant support, transparent communication and ongoing guidance throughout your placement and beyond.