Placements Officer – Home Finder Team – #5296771

Job Description

Durham County Council is seeking a Placements Officer to join the Home Finder Team, based at Seaham Spectrum Business Centre (SR7 7TT) on a hybrid basis (minimum 2 days per week in office). This is an initial 3-month contract at £17.80 per hour, starting 20 May 2026, subject to review and extension.

As Placements Officer you will work closely with social workers and children’s commissioning colleagues to identify, secure, and manage care placements for children and young people looked after by the Local Authority. You will act as a single point of contact for providers, commissioners, and operational teams, approaching independent providers proactively to maximise placement choice and stability.

Key responsibilities include responding to placement requests in a timely, child-centred manner; finalising placement agreements with commissioned providers; managing emergency placement requests; maintaining accurate records of all search activity and provider engagement; and contributing to the development of countywide, multi-agency services for children, young people, and their families.

The successful candidate will demonstrate strong communication and relationship-building skills, the ability to gather and analyse information effectively, and a solution-focused approach. Experience working within children’s services, commissioning, or a placements function is desirable.

This role does not require qualified social worker status. To be considered, please apply with an up-to-date CV as soon as possible.

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.