London in Permanent Children's Social Work Recruitment - 1165
Framework Description
Framework 1165, London in Permanent Children's Social Work Recruitment, is run by YPO with London Councils and the London Innovation & Improvement Alliance, which represents London's directors of children's services (ALDCS). It covers recruitment of permanent children's social workers and management and leadership roles in the London boroughs. It runs until 13 August 2027, with the extension already used.
Context & Use Case
London boroughs use 1165 to fill permanent children's social work posts, from frontline practitioners to team managers and senior leaders. Because it was designed with London Councils and the boroughs' children's services directors, it reflects their shared recruitment priorities, and every call-off is for permanent hiring rather than locum cover.
Scope of Services
Single lot Recruitment of permanent children's social workers Recruitment of children's services management roles Recruitment of children's services leadership roles
Lots
Single lot
Who Can Apply
Recruitment agencies specialising in permanent children's social work placements, especially those with a track record in London boroughs, suit this framework. Applications are closed and the extension has already been taken, so new agencies cannot join until a replacement is procured, likely before 13 August 2027.
Buyer Benefits
Boroughs get agencies vetted against a specification agreed with London's children's services leaders, so they do not each need to run separate tenders for a scarce workforce. Permanent appointments are central to stabilising children's services teams, so buyers weigh evidence of retention and quality of hire.
Next Steps
With the term ending on 13 August 2027 and no extension left, a replacement is likely to be procured before then. Check YPO's page (https://www.ypo.co.uk/frameworks-home/900635) for news of market engagement or a re-tender, and assemble evidence of permanent children's social work placements in London, including retention rates and leadership hires.
How Athena Can Help
The replacement for 1165 is the next opening, and Athena can help you prepare before it is advertised. Our framework readiness planning sets out what to gather and when, from case studies to safeguarding policies.
Once the tender is out, our bid writing specialists shape win themes around permanent placements and retention, and our public sector bid reviews check compliance and social value before you submit. Agencies already on 1165 can use the same support for remaining call-offs.
