Job Title: Qualified Social Worker - Adolescent Support Team (AST) - East Kent
Up to £38 per hour | Kent County Council
Location: Gravesend, Kent (with coverage in Swanley, Sevenoaks, Gravesham, and Dartford)
Contract Type: Full-Time, Temporary
Salary: Up to £38 per hour (DOE)

About the Role
Kent County Council is looking for a dedicated, experienced Social Worker to join our Adolescent Support Team (AST). As part of Specialist Children's Services, you'll play a vital role in supporting vulnerable children and young people in need of protection, delivering high-quality social work interventions, and ensuring positive outcomes for those at risk.
This is an exciting opportunity to work with adolescents aged 11-18, helping them and their families overcome challenges. You'll work in a collaborative environment, alongside other professionals and partners, to deliver effective services in line with legislation and best practices.
Key Responsibilities
• Case Management: Handle a caseload of complex cases, focusing on assessment, planning, and implementation of support strategies to achieve the best outcomes for children.
• Direct Work: Build strong relationships with young people to understand their lived experiences and advocate for their needs, ensuring they remain within their family network wherever possible.
• Crisis Intervention: Respond swiftly to young people at risk of homelessness, particularly those aged 16-17, using solution-focused approaches to prevent unnecessary care system entry.
• Collaborative Work: Chair Child In Need meetings, coordinate support, and work with a wide range of partners including CAMHS, Education, YOT, Police, Housing, and Local Housing Providers.
• Holistic Approach: Promote whole-family interventions and evidence-based practices to deliver high-quality social work.
• Safeguarding Focus: Ensure the protection of children and support them in improving their circumstances through tailored, responsive interventions.

Essential Skills and Qualifications
• A qualified Social Worker with a DIPSW, CQSW, CSS, or equivalent qualification.
• Experience working with children and young people, especially those facing complex challenges.
• Proven ability to engage and support vulnerable and challenging adolescents, using strong communication and negotiation skills.
• Knowledge of safeguarding policies and procedures.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Full driving license and access to a vehicle for work purposes.

Team and Location
You will be based at the AST North office in Gravesend, with coverage across Swanley, Sevenoaks, Gravesham, and Dartford. The area offers excellent transport links, including easy access to London, Essex, and Sussex. Kent offers a great work-life balance with affordable housing options and beautiful surroundings, making it an ideal location to settle down and thrive.

Apply Now!
If you are a passionate Social Worker looking to make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable young people and their families, apply today to join the Adolescent Support Team at Kent County Council