Supervising Social Worker – Foster for Bradford

Working for the Bradford Children and Families Trust offers the opportunity to work with some great people who are passionate about delivering change in a city whose culture offers as much diversity as it’s geography. You can make a real difference to families and children and be an active part in delivering the service Bradford families should receive.

About the Role

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of children? We are looking for talented individuals to join our dedicated fostering service in Bradford to help shape the future of young lives.

Foster for Bradford is the largest fostering family in the district supporting mainstream, kinship and part time fostering families caring for local children.Bradford is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of community. You'll be part of a supportive network of professionals dedicated to improving the lives of children.

As we continue to grow and evolve, now is the perfect time to join us. In September 2025 Foster for Bradford were rated as ‘Good’ in all areas of our practice and reflected the positive changes that had already been achieved for our fostering families as well as our future aspirations to continue our growth and development.We are seeking to recruit exceptional Supervising Social Workers who are committed to service development and can support and influence best practice across the service. Your role would be to deliver high-quality supervision to a caseload of fostering households including supporting their training and development needs, chairing complex meetings and making and maintaining relationships with the fostering families including the children within the family. In addition, you will have the opportunity to participate in our exciting enrichment programme alongside our fostering families and contribute to foster carers’ learning and development.Our social work senior leadership team and the Foster for Bradford leadership team are permanent and committed to providing stability and continuity within the organisation.Their consistent presence ensures that our strategic vision and values are upheld, fostering a reliable and supportive environment for both staff and the children in our care.Our approach is rooted in restorative and relational practice, fostering trust, mutual respect, and meaningful relationships with children, families, and professionals.

To be successful in this role you will need;

• A DIPSW or equivalent qualification and are registered with the Social Work England as a qualified social worker.
• A full UK driving licence and have access to a vehicle for work purposes - adjustments can be considered for candidates with a disability.
• Expertise in managing the delivery of quality outcomes for children and young people.
• An ability to build strong relationships with children, their families, colleagues and partner agencies.
• An ability to write high-quality reports and assessments and analyse information effectively.
• Experience of managing a caseload in a statutory setting, with ability to problem solve, negotiate and manage conflict.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, for positive engagement with children and families and productive relationship building in a multi-agency environment.

You’ll also be joining an organisation that truly values its people, offering a range of benefits designed to support your wellbeing, growth, and work-life balance, including:

• Retention Payment: You will be eligible for our annual retention payment, paid in 12 monthly instalments. This is non contractual (reviewed annually)
• Enhanced annual leave entitlement: 31 days rising to 34 with service (plus bank holidays)
• Excellent local Government pension
• Competitive salary and pay progression structure
• Supportive carer and parental policies
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave
• Access to Occupational Health and confidential counselling services
• Supportive staff networks
• Access to Blue Light Card discounts, including cost of living support
• Professional development/support and opportunities career progression

Bradford Children and Families Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all employees to share this commitment.

If shortlisted, you will be required to disclose relevant information regarding criminal history prior to interview.A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check including a check against the Children’s barred list, will be carried out on preferred candidates.

Closing Date: 4th October 2026Shortlisting: 12th October 2026Interviews: 21st October 2026

Further Candidate Information

Alongside the SSW responsibilities, the successful applicant will also take on the rewarding role of Mockingbird Liaison Worker, acting as a key link between the Hub Home, constellation carers and the wider fostering service. The role focuses on building strong relationships, promoting peer support and helping foster carers feel connected and supported within their Mockingbird community. As part of this, the post holder will attend and support monthly Mockingbird social activities, some of which take place during weekends and school holidays. These events are a valuable part of the Mockingbird model, providing opportunities to strengthen networks, celebrate successes and enhance outcomes for children and families. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is passionate about relationship-based practice and supporting foster families to thrive.

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