Review: Social Work Team Manager - Bridlington Strengthening and Supporting Families Team

This opportunity with East Riding of Yorkshire Council presents a compelling prospect for experienced Social Work Team Managers or ambitious Advanced Social Work Practitioners looking to advance their leadership careers. The role of Team Manager for the Bridlington Strengthening and Supporting Families Team offers a chance to make a significant impact within a supportive and dynamic environment.

Advantages for Potential Candidates:

• Meaningful Impact and Leadership: You will be at the forefront of providing essential support to children and families, leading a dedicated team committed to making a positive difference. This role offers genuine leadership responsibility and the chance to shape practice.
• Supportive Environment: The description highlights a strong culture of peer support and professional development, as well as robust leadership support. This is crucial for navigating the complexities of children's social care and fostering personal growth.
• Work-Life Balance: The emphasis on work-life balance is a significant draw, acknowledging the demands of leadership roles and offering an attractive prospect for sustained career satisfaction.
• Scenic Location: Bridlington offers a unique lifestyle proposition, blending coastal charm with rural beauty. This can provide a refreshing and rewarding backdrop to a challenging and fulfilling career.
• Collaborative Team and Setting: Joining two existing Team Managers and leading a large, diverse team within a purpose-built family centre fosters a collaborative atmosphere. The presence of a multi-agency environment further enhances opportunities for integrated working.
• Practice Model & Framework: The adoption of the "Stronger Together" practice model, underpinned by Signs of Safety, signifies a commitment to a consistent, strengths-based, and relational approach. This provides a clear framework for practice and encourages a shared understanding across the team.
• Career Progression: Stepping into this Team Manager role offers a clear pathway for career advancement within children's social care, building upon existing management or supervisory experience.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Experience and Expertise: The role requires a qualified and registered Social Worker with proven management or supervisory experience. A strong understanding of key legal frameworks such as Child in Need, Child Protection, Care and Private Law Proceedings, and Adoption is essential.
• Leadership and Development Skills: Candidates must demonstrate the ability to inspire, support, and develop a team of social workers at various career stages. This includes fostering a positive team dynamic and driving continuous improvement.
• Commitment to Strengths-Based Practice: A genuine commitment to strengths-based practice and achieving positive outcomes for children is a core requirement. Familiarity with the "Stronger Together" model and the Signs of Safety framework will be advantageous.
• Understanding of National Frameworks: Awareness of the Children's Social Care National Framework and the current reform agenda is crucial for effective leadership and strategic contribution.
• Geographic Adaptability: While Bridlington is highlighted as a benefit, candidates should consider the service area's diversity, stretching across varied rural and isolated communities, which will influence caseload and travel considerations.

This Team Manager position is an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking to lead and develop a skilled team within a supportive local authority. The blend of professional challenge, personal development, and the attractive lifestyle of the East Riding of Yorkshire makes this a role worthy of serious consideration for those looking to shape the future of children's social care.