Children's Advanced Social Worker - Front Door (MASH)

Job description

Job description

We are looking for an experienced and motivated Advanced Social Worker to join our Children's Front Door Service based at County Hall, Exeter. If you are looking to take the next step in your social work career then this is an exciting opportunity to be part of a service where you can truly shape outcomes and make a meaningful difference.

About the Role

Our Children's Front Door Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) is responsible for handling all safeguarding and child-protection inquiries throughout Devon. It provides a crucial part in promoting and protecting the safety and welfare of children throughout the county.

From a central hub located in Exeter, our dedicated and experienced team of professionals work in close collaboration with the police, healthcare, education and probation services to quickly gather and assess information when determining the best course of action in supporting families and meeting children's needs. Through these vital agency partnerships, our Children's Front Door service can promptly and efficiently identify potential risks and initiate timely, need specific interventions where appropriate.

Over the past year our Children's Front Door has undergone significant change resulting in the achievement of a progressive and stable workforce, operating at 90% permanent staff. Our primary focus is on the safety and well-being of children and families by simplifying access to services, and strengthening collaboration with our partner agencies.

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About You

As an Advanced Social Worker for our Children's Front Door (MASH) you will work as part of a highly supportive team to creatively promote positive and sustainable long-term change.

Through close collaboration with your Team Manager you will provide management overview, professional leadership and supervision to your colleagues.

Alongside this you will Support the day-to-day operations of the team, helping to deliver an effective and efficient service to children and families in Devon. By taking a lead role with one of our partner agencies (Police, Health, or Education) you will be their direct link to the Children's Front Door, facilitating seamless daily practice.

This is a fast-paced environment and so you will be confident in making decisions and adept at applying thresholds. Having a clear understanding of the processes used in supporting children and families effectively and promptly is essential. You will also Champion restorative practice whilst working to a high standard, in line with statutory guidance and have crucial previous experience of working in a Front Door setting

This role is being offered on a permanent basis. While a degree of remote working is possible, you will be expected to work in the office for three days a week.

Your skills and experience will include:

• satisfactory completion of your Assessed and Supported Year in Employment (ASYE)

• a high-level of written and verbal communication skills*

• the ability to build effective professional relationships with children, families, and other professionals

• knowledge and understanding of the legislation, models, and theories relevant to children's social work

• exceptional recording and planning skills

* Exceptions may apply under the Equality Act

Ready to Make a Real Difference?

To find out more about working in our Children's Front Door Service or for further information on the role, please contact the Team Manager: Harriet Peters - [email protected]

Closing date: 27 September 2026

We encourage early applications - this vacancy may close sooner if we receive a high volume of interest.

This role is currently eligible for a £2,000 retention payment per annum (pro rata, T&Cs apply).

Internal Applicants: If you are an existing DCC employee, please use your iTrent Employee Self Service (ESS) details to log in and apply.

We welcome applications from internationally trained professionals already based in the UK. For the right candidates, we can offer visa sponsorship to support your journey.

Working at Devon County Council

In return for the vital contribution you'll make, we offer a fantastic range of benefits, including:

• Generous annual leave, with the option to purchase more
• Free onsite parking
• Employee Assistance Programme and wellbeing support
• Flexible working options , including hybrid working
• Local Government Pension Scheme
• Discounts at 900+ retailers
• Cycle to work scheme
• Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme

Additional Information

• Devon County Council is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive and supportive workplace . We welcome applications from individuals who share our commitment to tackling inequality and promoting inclusion.
• We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and expect all staff to share this commitment.
• This role requires:
• Confidence and fluency in spoken English
• A suitable DBS disclosure
• A Full UK driving Licence and access to a vehicle
• For more information, please visit our Working for Devon page

Click here to view the Job Description

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