Are you motivated to work in partnership with, support and advocate for children and young people who have arrived in Northern Ireland, many of whom who are Separated or Unaccompanied and may have been the victims of trafficking and/or exploitation?

Have you got strong interpersonal skills and a desire to ensure that children and young people's rights are upheld?

Do you have a strong Human Rights based approach to your work and a desire to effect change for children and young people who need a skilled, value driven and knowledgeable advocate?

Are you able to work in a fast paced environment and be flexible to respond to Risk and Need as it presents?

Barnardo's NI, through the Independent Guardian Service, is seeking to employ a skilled and experienced Social Worker to work within our regional Independent Guardian team.

The role of an Independent Guardian is derived from the Human Trafficking and Exploitation Act (2015) and is a crucial role in ensuring that the rights of children and young people who may be victims of trafficking or exploitation, are upheld.

If the nature of this work appeals to you as a Social Worker, we are very keen to hear from you - please see the attached Job description and Additional information sheet as part of this advertisement.

Please read the Job Description and Additional Information Page for the in-depth responsibilities of this role, and when completing your application link please refer to you Skills, Knowledge and Experience in these areas and with an understanding of the context of this role.

This is a regional service operating across Northern Ireland. While the main office base is Belmont Road, Belfast, BT4 2AW, Independent Guardians are required to travel throughout Northern Ireland and may be allocated to a specific Health & Social Care Trust area.

If you're committed to making a real difference in the lives of families and young children, we'd love to hear from you!

Successful applicants will be required to undertake an Enhanced Access NI with Child and Adult Barred List Check.

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Workplace Offer: What it means for you

The ability to buy up to another 5 days annual leave via our Buy Your Leave scheme
Service related sick pay from day 1
Cycle2work scheme
Interest free season ticket loans
20% discount at Barnardo's stores
Opportunity to purchase a health cash plan to claim towards dental, glasses, therapy etc
Free access to round the clock employee assistance program for advice and support
Access to Barnardo's Learning and Development offer

*T&C's apply based on contract

Reference number:23557
Job Title:Independent Guardian (Social Worker) (Maternity Cover)
Location:Belfast
Locality:Belfast
Contract type:Fixed term
End date:31 March 2027
Hours:37
Salary:£36,099 - £41,685
Closing Date:27 August 2026
Interview Date:To be confirmed

Connect with a cause that needs you!

Independent Guardian (Social Worker) (Maternity Cover)

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