Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct comprehensive child and family assessments under the Children Act 1989 & 2004 to identify risks, needs, and strengths.
- Develop and implement care plans that prioritize child safety, stability, and long-term well-being.
- Undertake statutory visits and maintain up-to-date case records in line with regulatory requirements.
- Initiate and manage Child Protection Plans (CPP), ensuring robust risk management and timely interventions.
- Lead court proceedings, preparing and presenting high-quality reports, evidence, and recommendations in family courts.
- Work collaboratively with police, health professionals, schools, and other agencies to ensure coordinated safeguarding efforts.
- Provide direct support and intervention to children and families facing significant challenges, including domestic abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
- Attend child protection conferences, strategy meetings, and legal planning meetings, advocating for the best outcomes for children.
- Support foster placements and contribute to permanency planning for children in care.
- Ensure all interventions comply with local and national statutory guidelines, including Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018).
Essential Criteria:
- Social Work England (SWE) registration (or eligibility to register).
- A degree in Social Work (BA/MA) or equivalent qualification.
- Demonstrable experience in child protection, safeguarding, and court proceedings.
- Strong knowledge of UK child protection legislation, policies, and frameworks.
- Excellent assessment, analytical, and decision-making skills.
- Experience in writing court reports and presenting evidence in legal settings.
- Ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities effectively.
- Strong multi-agency working skills with a commitment to inter-professional collaboration.
- A valid UK driving license and access to a vehicle (where required).
Desirable Criteria:
- Experience in complex care proceedings, pre-proceedings (PLO), and adoption cases.
- Knowledge of systemic social work practice and trauma-informed approaches.
- Additional training in signs of safety, motivational interviewing, or therapeutic interventions.
Caritas Recruitment is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.
