Team Manager - Children in Care

Team Manager – Children in Care Salary: £51,131 – £55,607 DOE Location: Chatham, Kent (Hybrid Working) Contract: Full Time, Permanent Requirements: Qualified Social Worker | SWE Registered | Full UK Driving Licence & access to own vehicle About the Role We are recruiting for a Team Manager to lead a Children in Care Social Work Team supporting children, young people and families. You will manage, coach and supervise a team of Social Workers and Family Support Workers, ensuring high-quality safeguarding practice and positive outcomes for children. The role includes oversight of care planning, decision making, statutory visits and performance management across the team. You will also work closely with partner agencies and senior leaders to improve service delivery and support the development of staff and practice standards. Key Responsibilities Line management and supervision of Social Workers and support staff Case oversight and safeguarding decision-making Allocating cases and monitoring statutory timescales Supporting staff development, training and retention Chairing professional meetings and reviews Supporting recruitment and safer selection of staff Deputising for the Service Manager when required Monitoring team performance and service standards Budget awareness and resource management What We’re Looking For Essential Qualified Social Worker Social Work England registration Minimum 5 years post-qualifying experience in Children’s Social Care Strong safeguarding and children in care experience Experience supervising or mentoring Social Workers Ability to manage performance and complex decision-making Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle Desirable Previous Team Manager or Deputy/Advanced Practitioner experience Practice Educator qualification Leadership/management training Working Pattern Hybrid working Minimum 2 office days per week Team Manager JD Flexible working arrangements available Why Apply? This role is ideal for an experienced Senior Practitioner or Deputy Team Manager ready to progress into a full management position within a supportive Local Authority structure, with opportunities to influence practice standards and staff development. Additional Information Travel across the Medway area required Enhanced DBS required