Experienced Social Worker - Assessment & Child Protection

Experienced Social Worker - Assessment & Child Protection

Local Authority | Locum Contract

Summary

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Social Worker to join a Local Authority's Assessment and Child Protection Team.

This role offers the opportunity to work within a supportive and forward-thinking service dedicated to safeguarding children and improving outcomes for vulnerable children, young people, and families. You will manage a complex caseload, undertake assessments, develop child-centred plans, and contribute to effective child protection and court work.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a complex and varied caseload within the Assessment and Child Protection Service.
  
• Undertake comprehensive assessments of need, risk, and harm.
  
• Work directly with children, young people, and families to improve outcomes and reduce risk.
  
• Identify and assess indicators of abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
  
• Develop and implement SMART, child-centred plans.
  
• Lead safeguarding and child protection interventions.
  
• Undertake statutory social work responsibilities in accordance with legislation and guidance.
  
• Prepare high-quality reports for Child Protection Conferences, Looked After Reviews, and court proceedings.
  
• Present evidence in Family Court and High Court proceedings where required.
  
• Work collaboratively with partner agencies, professionals, and stakeholders.
  
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records and assessments.
  
• Promote positive outcomes through strengths-based and relationship-focused practice.
  
• Support and mentor less experienced practitioners and students where appropriate.
  

Essential Requirements

Requirements:

• Qualified Social Worker (Degree, DipSW, CQSW or equivalent).
  
• Current Social Work England registration.
  
• Significant experience within Children's Social Care.
  
• Experience in Assessment and Child Protection work.
  
• Strong safeguarding and risk assessment experience.
  
• Experience managing complex child protection cases.
  
• Experience preparing court reports and attending court proceedings.
  
• Strong assessment, analytical, and decision-making skills.
  
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
  
• Ability to work independently and manage competing priorities effectively.
  

Desirable

• Postgraduate qualification in a relevant area.
  
• Practice Educator qualification or willingness to undertake training.
  
• Experience supervising or supporting Social Work students.
  
• Experience working within a Local Authority Child Protection Team.
  

What's on Offer?

• £42.00 per hour (Umbrella)
  
• Full-Time Hours
  
• Hybrid Working
  
• Bi-Weekly Pay
  
• Supportive and experienced team environment
  
• Complex and rewarding caseload
  
• Opportunity to make a meaningful difference to children and families
  
• Ongoing professional development opportunities
  

Ideal for candidates with experience as a Social Worker, Child Protection Social Worker, Assessment Social Worker, Safeguarding Social Worker, Children's Social Worker, Senior Social Worker, Frontline Social Worker, or Advanced Practitioner.