If you’re a qualified children’s social worker looking for a role where your work truly changes lives, a position in a Duty and Permanence team offers one of the most rewarding opportunities in the profession.

And if you’re open to working in a region that combines supportive practice, progressive councils and strong community values, Merseyside is well worth exploring.

What is a Duty & Permanence Team?

Children’s social work is broad, but few roles offer the same blend of challenge, variety and impact as those in Duty and Permanence teams.

The Duty Team: Responding to Urgent Need

The Duty (or “front door”) team is often where safeguarding begins. When a concern or referral is made about a child, Duty social workers are the first to assess the situation, identify risks, and determine what level of intervention is needed under the Children Act 1989.

You’ll be:

• Conducting statutory assessments and Section 47 enquiries.
• Liaising with partner agencies such as police, health and education.
• Preparing and presenting information for child protection conferences.
• Making rapid but considered decisions to keep children safe.

It’s fast-paced, challenging work.

It’s fast-paced, challenging work that demands excellent judgement, communication and resilience – but it also brings immense professional satisfaction. You see the difference you make, often immediately.

The Permanence Team: Building Stability for the Future

Once urgent risks are addressed and children enter the care system, Permanence teams step in to secure long-term stability, belonging and emotional security.

You’ll work with children, carers, adopters and families to:

• Develop and review care plans that promote lasting relationships.
• Prepare court reports and attend hearings.
• Monitor progress and advocate for each child’s voice, education and wellbeing.
• Help children maintain a sense of identity and continuity.

This is where long-term, relationship-based practice thrives. You’ll follow children’s journeys over time and witness their growth and progress – an incredibly fulfilling part of the role.

Make a Visible Difference

From crisis response to long-term planning, you’ll be there for the most critical moments in a child’s life. Few roles offer the same chance to see tangible, positive outcomes.

Variety and Professional Challenge

You’ll use every aspect of your training – from risk assessment and report writing to court work and multi-agency collaboration. Every day is different, and every decision matters.

Support and Supervision

Authorities across Merseyside are committed to manageable caseloads, reflective supervision and peer learning. You’ll be part of a team culture that understands the importance of support and balance.

Hybrid Flexibility

Many roles now offer hybrid working, allowing you to combine time at home for report writing with in-person visits and team meetings – a healthy, flexible balance that benefits you and the families you support.

Continuous Professional Development

With access to mentoring, CPD budgets and clear career pathways, you’ll have every opportunity to grow your skills and progress your career.

Why Merseyside?

While the real story here is the work itself, Merseyside provides an exceptional environment in which to do it.

The region’s five local authorities – Liverpool, Wirral, Knowsley, Sefton and St Helens – share a strong commitment to improving outcomes for children and families. Their focus on collaboration and innovation has helped to build stable, well-resourced children’s services teams that value their social workers.

Professionally, you can expect:

• Competitive pay (around £40 per hour).
• 36-hour weeks and hybrid working options.
• Strong local networks across health, education and family support.

Personally, you’ll be working in one of the UK’s most characterful regions – a place known for its warmth, resilience and community spirit.

Why Pertemps Social Care?

At Pertemps Social Care, we connect skilled, passionate social workers with roles that match their values and career goals.

We offer:

• A simple, streamlined registration process.
• Weekly payroll and dedicated consultant support.
• Exclusive access to vacancies across the UK.
• Referral bonuses and incentives when you recommend colleagues.

We’ll help you find the right fit – so you can focus on what matters most: protecting, supporting and empowering children and families.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re ready for a role that blends challenge, purpose and reward, this is your opportunity. Join a Duty and Permanence team in Merseyside and make a lasting impact – one child at a time.