Social Worker

Why Southwark?

Do you see yourself making a lifelong difference in a child’s life through adoption?

Can you use your experience to help create safe, loving, and stable families for children across South London?

Does the idea of joining a forward-thinking and inclusive regional adoption agency inspire you?

If yes, we have the perfect role for you!

At Adopt London South Regional Adoption Agency we are looking for a passionate and dedicated Social Worker to join us and help make a difference today.

What You'll Be Doing

You will provide high-quality adoption support services to adoptive families and birth relatives, helping children achieve and maintain stable family relationships. Working within a multidisciplinary and collaborative environment, you will:

• Support adoptive families following the Adoption Order through targeted interventions, direct work, and ongoing support.
• Undertake assessments and develop support plans to meet the needs of children and families.
• Work with birth parents and wider family networks to provide appropriate support and guidance.
• Contribute to reducing delays for children waiting for adoption, particularly children from Black and minoritised ethnic backgrounds.
• Build strong partnerships with internal and external agencies across London to improve outcomes for children and families.
• Participate in regional and national projects aimed at strengthening adoption practice and reducing inequalities.

A priority for Adopt London South and partner local authorities is reducing delays for children, particularly those from Black and minoritised ethnic backgrounds, and especially boys, who research shows often wait longest for adoptive families. Adopt London South has strong links with organisations including the Black Adoption Project, We Are Family, and New Family Social, creating opportunities to contribute to wider sector improvements across London and nationally.

What We're Looking For

We are looking for experienced and committed Social Workers who are:

• Qualified Social Workers who have completed their ASYE and have at least 3 years' post-ASYE experience.
• Experienced in permanence planning, adoption services, or able to demonstrate transferable skills from related areas of practice.
• Skilled in building positive relationships with diverse families and professional networks.
• Effective communicators with strong written and verbal skills, analytical thinking, and the ability to work to deadlines.
• Confident in managing varied caseloads and delivering appropriate interventions.
• Committed to anti-racist and inclusive practice, with a focus on reducing racial disparities in adoption.
• Competent in using case management systems and maintaining accurate records in line with policies and procedures.
• Knowledgeable about childcare and adoption legislation, regulations, and statutory guidance.
• Motivated to continue their professional development and develop skills in group work and training delivery.
• Flexible and responsive to the needs of the adoption community.
• Experienced in, or willing to learn about, therapeutic approaches such as DDP, TLSW, GBB, NVR, or similar models.