Job description

ABOUT US

Brighter Futures for Children is a not-for-profit company, owned by, but independent of, Reading Borough Council. Although we are independent, we are very much part of the Reading Family. Our people enjoy all of benefits as other Council employees including membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme and continuous service.
We work closely with partners in the local community and key organisations including Reading Borough Council, policy, public health and voluntary groups. We are responsible for the delivery of children’s social care, early help & prevention, education services (including SEND). This also includes fostering and adoption, the Youth Offending Service and traded services with schools.
Our main aim is to protect and enhance the lives of the children of Reading. We help families find long-term solutions to ensure children lead happy, healthy and successful lives.

ABOUT THE ROLE

We have an exciting opportunity for you to join our Supporting Families team.
As a Social Work Assistant, you will provide practical and social support for clients which includes supporting clients to make informed decisions, promoting the rights of vulnerable children & young people and encouraging their inclusion in the wider community.
The majority of work in this role will be supervising court ordered contact at the Contact Centre and in the community.

RESPONSIBILITIES

You will manage a caseload of appropriate cases and/or carers, ensuring the safeguarding of children and young people. Responsibilities include coordinating support packages, completing statutory child in need visits, chairing reviews, and working directly with families based on assessments. You’ll support informed decision-making and contribute to service planning, while handling complex casework under supervision.
Additional duties include parenting assessments, contact observations for court, and maintaining accurate records using Reading Children’s Services systems. You’ll assist with appointments, supervised contact, and transition planning, while liaising with professionals across sectors. Upholding equal opportunities and engaging in ongoing training are also key aspects of the role.

The Social Worker Assistant is required to:

• Good written and spoken English.
• NVQ Level 3, or equivalent, or the willingness to undertake this training.
• Knowledge of child development and parenting practice.
• Experience of working with children and young people who need support.
• Experience of working with families in a safeguarding context.

For more information about the role, please read the job description and person specification.