Senior Social Worker – Locality Team

Specialism / Department: Children’s Social Care – Locality Team
Location: Wakefield, UK
Salary / Pay Rate: £35 per hour
Contract Type: Locum / Ongoing
Working Pattern: Part-Time / Full-Time

Role Overview

Wakefield Metropolitan Borough Council is seeking an experienced Senior Social Worker to join their Locality Team. This ongoing locum opportunity offers a competitive hourly rate of £35 and the option to work either part‑time or full‑time, making it ideal for practitioners looking to balance professional fulfilment with lifestyle flexibility.

As a Senior Social Worker, you will manage complex cases, support safeguarding interventions, and provide leadership, mentoring, and professional oversight to social workers. You will play a crucial role in ensuring high‑quality services are delivered to children, young people, and families in line with legislation, policy, and best practice frameworks.

Perks and Benefits

• Part-Time or Full-Time Options: Choose the schedule that suits your needs.
• Competitive Hourly Pay: £35 per hour, rewarding your expertise and dedication.
• Career Development: Access training, supervision, and skill‑enhancement opportunities.
• Wellbeing Support: Benefit from programmes designed to support mental and physical health.
• Flexible Working: Enjoy adaptable arrangements to maintain healthy work–life balance.

Key Responsibilities / What You Will Do

• Manage a complex caseload, ensuring timely and effective interventions for children and families.
• Undertake comprehensive assessments including risk assessments, care planning, and reviews.
• Lead, supervise, and mentor social workers, supporting their professional growth.
• Provide safeguarding leadership and contribute to child protection enquiries and conferences.
• Work collaboratively with partner agencies to deliver holistic and integrated support.
• Prepare high‑quality case reports and maintain accurate record‑keeping.
• Participate in quality assurance activities and contribute to service improvement initiatives.
• Support practice development across the team through training, guidance, and reflective discussion.

Requirements / Candidate Criteria

Essential

• Recognised Social Work qualification.
• Registration with Social Work England.
• Significant experience in children’s services, including complex case management.
• Strong understanding of child protection legislation and safeguarding frameworks.
• Experience supervising or mentoring social work practitioners.
• Excellent communication skills and high‑quality report‑writing ability.

Desirable

• Post‑qualifying award in Social Work.
• Experience supporting children with disabilities or mental health needs.
• Experience delivering training or supporting multi‑agency teams.

Why Wakefield

Wakefield offers a blend of suburban comfort and vibrant cultural life. From beautiful green spaces and historic landmarks to modern amenities and great transport connections, it provides a welcoming environment for professionals and families alike. The strong community spirit and access to Yorkshire’s scenic landscapes make Wakefield an excellent location to live, work, and thrive.

Working with Sanctuary Personnel

Sanctuary Personnel is a trusted, award‑winning recruitment agency with an Excellent Trustpilot rating supported by over 1,000 reviews. They specialise in matching skilled social work professionals with high‑quality locum roles, ensuring competitive rates, personalised support, and a smooth recruitment process from start to finish.