Hello from the waterfront city

We're proud to be Portsmouth in children's social care - that's what makes us truly unique.

New employee benefits

Portsmouth City Council has introduced a package of new incentives for social workers in children's social care, with exciting opportunities and rewards that reflect your dedication and expertise. Here’s why we’re the ideal place for your career:

Up to £3,000 market supplement payment

We value your commitment to families in Portsmouth. Practitioners from ASYEs to team leaders in qualifying teams are eligible for a market supplement payment of up to £3,000, paid across 12 monthly instalments.

Enhanced health and wellbeing package

Your wellbeing matters to us. Enjoy access to third-party support services, including GP consultations and retailer discount schemes, all tailored to meet your needs.

Relocation help

For specific roles and where there is an employment need, Portsmouth City Council may help with costs associated with relocating of up to £8,000.

New career progression pathways

We’ve introduced new career opportunities, allowing experienced social workers to progress to an advanced social worker.

Plus, our innovative approach to family practice ensures everyone has the support they need that's tailored to their requirements.

Meet three social care practitioners who have given three reasons that make them #ProudToBePortsmouth

Reason : Portsmouth's model of family practice

In Portsmouth, we have a unique and innovative approach that underpins our practice in a restorative way. At the heart of this vision, we have created eight priorities that support what we do.

WORKING WHOLE FAMILY
RESTORATIVE
RELATIONAL
TRAUMA-INFORMED
STRENGTHS
HOLISTIC
HOPEFUL
INFORMED BY DIFFERENCE

Meet Liam

EXPERIENCED SOCIAL WORKER
5 years at Portsmouth City Council

I joined Portsmouth City Council as a student and have progressed to an advanced social worker. Working within our family support and safeguarding team, we support families through child in need planning, child protection, and legal proceedings. I value Portsmouth's focus on our relationships with families, partner agencies and colleagues. My role is to help us grow as a team through reflection and learning to deliver effective interventions for our community.

Reason : Supported to develop and progress

We don't shy away from encouraging staff to progress using the Portsmouth Learning and Career Progression Pathway. We've introduced a new advanced social worker post, giving even more reasons to develop your practice in the waterfront city.

Assessed and supported year in employment (ASYE)

Social worker

Experienced social worker

Advanced social worker

Team Leader

Child protection advisor (CP chair)

Independent reviewing officer (IRO)

Service leader

Head of service

Meet Lauren

TEAM LEADER
7 years at Portsmouth City Council

I started working in Portsmouth within the central one locality team as a social worker in 2017. I completed my ASYE in this team and progressed to an experienced social worker in 2019. I became a team leader in July 2023 and manage the family support and safeguarding south team.

Reason : Small city, big heart

Portsmouth is a small community by the sea with practitioners who form strong relationships with families. They know who they work with and the agencies who support them.

Meet Anna

SOCIAL WORKER
3 years at Portsmouth City Council

I studied at the University of Portsmouth. During my placement, I worked at Portsmouth City Council and still work in the same team to this day. Being able to work in a restorative way alongside other agencies is a huge bonus.

More reasons to be proud

Rated good with outstanding elements

In 2023, Ofsted rated children's services as good overall, highlighting a number of key strengths.

Senior leaders in the council champion the needs of children, families and young people, ensuring they reach their potential in education and employment.

Children are actively encouraged to share their views and be involved in issues that matter to them.

The support given to children who need help and protection is outstanding overall, highlighting impressive early help services and the skilled and specialist help available to children, including those with complex needs.