3 Month Contract With A local Authority

To work as part of a dedicated Family Support Team, undertaking child protection, children in need, and court work. The role involves carrying out statutory social work functions with children and families where there are concerns about significant harm, neglect, or abuse. The postholder will ensure children are safeguarded and supported to achieve the best possible outcomes in line with relevant legislation, policies, and practice frameworks.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a complex and varied caseload including Children in Need (CiN), Child Protection (CP), and Looked After Children (LAC) subject to care proceedings.
  

• Undertake statutory assessments, planning, and interventions in line with the Children Act 1989 and Working Together to Safeguard Children.
  

• Lead and contribute to Child Protection Conferences, Core Groups, CIN Reviews, and Looked After Reviews.
  

• Undertake pre-proceedings and court work, including preparing statements, chronologies, and care plans, and giving evidence in court.
  

• Build meaningful and trusting relationships with children and their families through regular visits and direct work.
  

• Use strength-based and trauma-informed approaches to understand family dynamics, support change, and promote positive outcomes.
  

• Identify and respond to risk, including safeguarding concerns, using robust safety planning and risk management strategies.
  

• Work collaboratively with a range of professionals including education, health, police, legal and voluntary sector colleagues.
  

• Lead and coordinate multi-agency plans to safeguard and support children and young people.
  

• Ensure that the voice of the child is central in all assessments, plans, and interventions.
  

• Maintain accurate, high-quality case records and documentation using [insert case management system, e.g., Liquidlogic / Mosaic].
  

• Prepare detailed reports for internal reviews, court proceedings, and statutory meetings.
  

• Engage in regular supervision, reflective practice, and continuing professional development.
  

• Comply with professional standards as set out by Social Work England and the Professional Capabilities Framework.
  

• Contribute to service improvement by participating in audits, team discussions, and practice development.
  

Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with Social Work England registration
  

• Minimum ASYE completed and statutory post-qualification experience
  

• Experience of managing child protection, care proceedings, and safeguarding cases
  

• Knowledge of key legislation, guidance, and frameworks including:
  

• Strong assessment, analysis, and care planning skills
  

• Excellent written and verbal communication, including court reports
  

• Ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities
  

• Ability to drive and travel across the area (if required)