I came to work for Telford and Wrekin Council in 2014, two years post qualifying. I had been a Social Work Assistant for four years
prior to this and all my experience had been in front line Child Protection. I applied to the Children in Care Team as I wanted a new challenge. After a year I decided I wanted to move on because I really missed the fast pace and short term intervention social work. It was a difficult decision, as I had a really supportive team and Team Manager. I was encouraged to apply for a secondment opportunity to Family Connect.
Family Connect is a fast paced multi-agency team, the major difference being that the social workers do not go out into the community. The role is very unique and challenging. Although my secondment was originally intended to be for a year, within two months I was offered a permanent position. My journey within Family Connect has been challenging and I have learned a lot along the way. As a Social Worker I have developed and refined my assessment and analytical skills, which I was worried about losing due to not having any face-to-face with children and families. If anything, I think they have improved.
After being in the team for a year and a half my senior manager encouraged me to apply for the Senior Social Work post. Having the support from the managers has really helped my confidence grow. In supervision we reflect on how I am progressing in my role and look at the areas that I would like to further develop so I can work even more effectively. With the right support in place provided by Telford & Wrekin Council, I feel I am competent in my role as Senior Social Worker and will be supported to continue to grow.
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