Social Worker Youth Support Team

Job Description

Exciting Opportunity: Social Worker in the Youth Support Team (YST), Lewes

Are you ready to make a real impact? Sociak workers in East Sussex often share how much they appreciate the genuine support and recognition they receive here. As highlighted in the 2024 Ofsted Report: Social workers love working in East Sussex because they feel valued and supported.

We are thrilled to invite applications for a Social Worker role in our Lewes-based Youth Support Team. Recent updates to our family support model have created an energizing environment where you can truly thrive. Our innovative Connected Families Intervention Practitioners (CFIP) program integrates multi-agency collaboration, freeing up social workers to concentrate on meaningful, hands-on interactions with children and families.

Complementing this, our Connected Coaches provide expert assistance in evaluating needs, crafting plans, and implementing proven strategies to lower risks, strengthen family bonds, and keep young people safely at home.

Plus, we are proud of our exclusive Get Digital program, which equips social workers with tools and training to help kids and teens develop strong online safety habits and digital savvy enjoying the positives of the internet while minimizing dangers.

With court cases at an all-time low, you’ll have more space to prioritize building trusting relationships. Whether you’re drawn to hands-on, relationship-focused work or seeking solid frontline experience as a launchpad toward leadership, our Lewes YST team has the perfect fit for you.

What We are Looking For

We are seeking dedicated professionals who:

• Excel at building connections in tough situations, using empathy, creativity, and firm guidance to navigate challenges, foster trust, and communicate clearly all while upholding professional standards.
• Are fierce champions for children and families, with a deep commitment to creating lasting positive change.
• Bring direct experience supporting children and families.
• Are skilled in conducting thorough assessments that lead to practical, effective action plans.
• Understand the key laws, policies, and guidelines that shape social work.

How to Apply

We get it job applications can feel overwhelming, so we’ve kept ours simple. Just hit Apply Now to submit your CV and a Supporting Statement. In your statement, focus on:

• Your experiences working with children and young people.
• Your approach to communication.
• How you’ve applied research or theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Keep it concise, with a few specific examples that’s all we need!

For full details, download the Job Description and Person Specification. Check out our How to Apply page for tips on crafting your application.

The Interview Process

At the interview, we will discuss:

• Your hands-on work with children and young people.
• Your communication style.
• Examples of putting theory or research into practice.
• Your leadership abilities in social work.

Interviews are scheduled for February 9th, in person at County Hall in Lewes. We prioritize shortlisting for candidates who qualify under certain criteria visit our priority status page for more info.

Why Choose Us?

Our top-notch social work education team is committed to your professional growth, helping you advance in your current role and beyond.

We provide a comprehensive benefits package to support you throughout your career. Explore our benefits page for the full scoop.

Curious about children’s social work in East Sussex? Head to our Children’s Social Work pages. For a casual chat about the role or to connect with a service practice manager, reach out to Cassie Atherton at cassie.atherton@eastsussex.gov.uk or call 01424 724130.

Note: Salaries include a market supplement through June 2026. See our salary scales page for base pay details.

Join us for outstanding training and career development in East Sussex!

Important Details

This position requires an Enhanced DBS check (or Enhanced check for Regulated Activity) via the Disclosure and Barring Service. For more on this, visit https://www.gov.uk/dbs-check-applicant-criminal-record. If you’ve lived or worked overseas, we’ll need proof of a police check from there.

If the role is part time or term time, your starting salary will be adjusted pro rata.

Need UK work sponsorship? Mention it in your application so we can assess eligibility. More info at https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/work-visas.

If you need reasonable adjustments for the application or interview process due to a disability, contact the hiring manager listed above.