Job Summary

The Social Work Assistant supports social work staff in delivering quality services to children and families. Working within a Children’s Services Team, the postholder undertakes delegated tasks to assist in the implementation of care, protection, and support plans. Ongoing professional development through training and supervision is expected in line with NISCC registration standards.

Location: Belfast

Job Type: Temporary 

Duration of booking: Expected to last 3 months with possible extension

Proposed start date: ASAP

Pay Rates: Up to £15 per hour PAYE inclusive of holiday pay

Hours / Working Days: 37.5 hours per week / Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm 

Sector: Healthcare 

Based: Office / Hospital 

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Direct Practice with Children and Families

• Undertake practical work with children and/or parents/carers as directed by a Social Work Manager or practitioner.
• Contribute to assessment processes under the guidance and supervision of case-holding social work staff.
• Assist in the delivery and arrangement of identified family support services.
• Coordinate and support diversionary, respite, and other relevant services.
• Gather and relay information to support assessments of family circumstances.
• Assist with transport, guidance on parenting routines, behaviour management, budgeting, and completion of essential forms.
• Provide general information and signpost individuals to appropriate services.
• Supervise or support contact arrangements and ensure related documentation is completed.

Governance and Reporting Responsibilities

• Report concerns regarding child protection or risk immediately to the appropriate team member.
• Support administrative tasks such as referrals, meeting arrangements, room bookings, and duty-related functions.
• Liaise with external agencies under guidance.
• Maintain accurate records of all work undertaken.
• Prepare written reports as required.
• Participate in regular supervision.
• Be accountable for personal practice in line with NISCC codes of conduct.

Continuous Professional Development

• Engage in supervision, training, and professional learning to maintain and enhance skills in accordance with registration and role requirements.

General Responsibilities

The postholder is expected to:

• Promote team collaboration and transparency.
• Take seriously and act on concerns raised in line with whistleblowing and professional codes.
• Support equality, inclusion, and uphold a respectful working culture.
• Adhere to all policies and codes of conduct including:
  • Smoke-free policy
  • IT security and acceptable use
  • Attendance and appearance standards
• Maintain environmental hygiene in their area of responsibility.
• Comply with infection prevention and control procedures.
• Manage and safeguard all records (electronic and paper-based) in line with applicable laws and policies, including GDPR and the Data Protection Act.
• Be committed to ongoing professional development.
• Represent the highest standards of service delivery and public engagement.
• Respect confidentiality at all times.
• Uphold equality and human rights principles within their role.
• Engage meaningfully with patients, carers, and the public in planning and delivering services (in line with Personal and Public Involvement standards).
• Demonstrate integrity, objectivity, and professional accountability.
• Ensure regular attendance and effective completion of duties.
• Support quality improvement initiatives under Integrated Governance.
• Adapt to working in various locations within the service area as required.

Experience and Qualifications

Essential (One of the following):

• NVQ/QCF/RQF Level 3 in a care-related subject and at least 1 year of experience in a social care role
• NVQ/QCF/RQF Level 2 in a care-related subject and at least 2 years of experience in a social care role
• 4 GCSEs (Grades A-C) and at least 3 years of experience in a social care role

Applicants who do not hold a Level 3 qualification should be willing to complete a Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care Support