Childrens Social Worker – Children Looked After Team – #OR109055

Job Description

Somerset Council is seeking a locum Qualified Social Worker to fill a rare vacant position within the Children Looked After (CLA) Team based in Shepton Mallet, Mendip, at a rate of £28.41–£38.00 per hour, starting 3 August 2026.

This is a settled, supportive team working with children aged 0–18, including Somerset’s dedicated caseload for Unaccompanied Asylum Seeking Children (UASC). Children may be placed anywhere in the country, so significant travel is expected — a full driving licence and access to your own vehicle are essential.

Key responsibilities include holding a mixed-complexity caseload of Looked After Children, completing child-centred assessments, statutory visits, care and pathway plans, TAC and PEP meetings, court work, adoption documentation (including later life letters and lifestory books), and contributing to quality assurance and team initiatives. Practice is grounded in strengths-based and trauma-informed approaches.

Candidates must hold a recognised social work qualification and be registered with Social Work England. Experience in a multi-disciplinary children’s setting with a range of family complexities is essential. Locum workers can access CPD training and innovative AI tools including Beam Notes.

If you are an experienced children’s social worker ready to join a collaborative team making a real difference for looked after children and UASC young people in Somerset, please apply now.

What’s on offer:

* Excellent, competitive pay rates – paid weekly
* Supportive management team with approachable, experienced leaders
* A desirable location with great transport links
* A stable, well-resourced, and encouraging working environment

Why join Semester.co.uk?

* Free ongoing CPD and training opportunities to enhance your skills
* Competitive rates of pay with prompt, reliable payments through our in-house payroll
* Enhanced DBS processing included
* Dedicated, friendly consultant offering tailored support
* Access to a wide range of opportunities in your chosen location

Ready to take the next step? Click ‘Apply’ now to express your interest in this role, or explore other exciting opportunities with Semester.co.uk.