As a Newly Qualified Social Worker (NQSW) in Sefton Children’s Services, you will begin your social work career within one of our dedicated teams, Support & Protection or Children with Complex Needs. Both teams play a vital role in safeguarding and supporting children, young people, and families, and each offers a rich learning environment where you can develop your professional identity and confidence.

In the Support & Protection Team (x2 positions available), you will work with children and families who are in need of our support and where safeguarding concerns have been identified.

In the Children with Complex Needs Team (x1 position available), you will support children and young people in need of our support who have disabilities, additional needs, or long‑term conditions.

Both roles focus on enabling children to thrive through tailored support, person‑centred planning, and strong partnership working with families and professionals. You will develop your skills in assessment, relationship‑based practice, planning, direct work with children and families and multi‑agency working, helping families to make positive and sustainable changes.

Your journey will be firmly supported through Sefton’s ASYE Social Work Academy, a structured, nurturing programme designed to guide you through your first year in practice. You will benefit from protected learning time, reflective group supervision, dedicated support from the ASYE Coordinator and NQSW Development Lead, and a manageable workload that allows you to build confidence at the right pace.

Together, these elements ensure you have the guidance, space, and support needed to grow as a skilled, reflective, and resilient social worker.

Here's what sets us apart:

Small teams. Big impact

Become a valued member of our close-knit teams where you will be supported.

Manageable workload

During your ASYE, you will work with a maximum of 6 families during your first 6 months and no more than 8 families up to 12 months.

Strong Supervision and Support

You will receive additional support during your ASYE in line with Skills for Care expectations and opportunities to reflect with other ASYEs, your team and NQSODL.

Commitment to Excellence

We uphold high standards in supporting and safeguarding children and families.

What we offer:

Competitive starting Salary - SCP 26 £37,280

ASYE incentive - £1000 upon completion of your ASYE within 12 – 14 months

What we’re looking for:

• A professionally qualified Social Worker who is registered (or soon to be registered) with Social Work England (we have other vacancies for experienced Social Workers – please only apply for these roles if you are Newly Qualified)
• A confident and skilled communicator who is committed to working openly; with children, families, and partner agencies to improve outcomes
• A child centred, creative practitioner who keeps children at the heart of what they do and values their voice, wishes and feelings
• Knowledge of childcare legislation, statutory guidance and best practice research
• The ability to prepare timely assessments, plans and develop analytical report writing skills
• The ability to understand and demonstrate a commitment to equality and diversity and inclusion
• Commitment to your own personal development and professional growth with an enthusiasm to work systemically

Apply now and be part of something meaningful here in Sefton

If you are shortlisted for interview, our aim is to make the interview process as positive as possible. Please don’t hesitate to contact Joanne Williams, Practice Development Manager for our Academy if you have any questions or want to hear a little more about our offer – Joanne.Williams@Sefton.gov.uk

If demand is high, we reserve the right to close this advert so please apply early if you are interested in making a difference in Sefton. Thank you.

Job description and Person Specification can be found in the Recruitment Pack below.

The closing date for this vacancy is Midnight Sunday 22^nd March 2026 
Provisional interview dates are Wednesday 8^th April 2026 and Friday 10^th April 2026.