Senior Social Worker – Child Protection and Court Team

Job Description

Job Title: Senior Social Worker – Child Protection and Court Team
Specialism: Children’s Services
Location: Plymouth, UK
Salary: £45.00 Per Hour + Accommodation Allowance Up to £150 Per Week
Type: Temporary / Full Time

We are seeking experienced Senior Social Workers to join Children’s Social Work and Permanence Services in Plymouth. This is an excellent opportunity for skilled practitioners with strong Child Protection and Court Work experience to work within a statutory children’s social care service dedicated to safeguarding children and achieving positive outcomes for young people and families.

Working within a supportive team environment, you will undertake complex casework, lead safeguarding interventions, and contribute to effective planning and decision-making for children and families.

Perks and Benefits

Hybrid Working: Benefit from a flexible working arrangement with 3 days on-site and 2 days remote working.

Accommodation Support: Weekly accommodation allowance available for eligible candidates.

Challenging and Rewarding Practice: Work within a statutory service where your expertise will make a meaningful difference to children and families.

Professional Development: Participate in supervision, reflective practice, and ongoing professional development opportunities.

Collaborative Environment: Join a service committed to high-quality, child-centred social work and partnership working.

What You Will Do

Child Protection Practice: Undertake statutory social work responsibilities to safeguard children and young people who are at risk of significant harm.

Assessment and Risk Management: Complete comprehensive assessments of need and risk, ensuring interventions are proportionate, evidence-based, and outcome-focused.

Section 47 Enquiries: Lead and undertake Section 47 investigations, ensuring timely and effective safeguarding responses.

PLO and Court Work: Manage Public Law Outline (PLO) processes and undertake court-related work, including the preparation of high-quality reports and attendance at court proceedings when required.

Trauma-Informed Practice: Apply trauma-informed approaches when working with children, young people, and families to support positive engagement and sustainable change.

Care Planning: Develop and review plans that promote safety, stability, permanence, and positive outcomes for children.

Multi-Agency Working: Work collaboratively with partner agencies, professionals, carers, and families to support effective decision-making and coordinated interventions.

Recording and Reporting: Maintain accurate, analytical, and timely records in accordance with statutory requirements and professional standards.

What We’re Looking For

• Qualified Social Worker with current Social Work England registration.
• Significant experience in Child Protection and Court Work.
• Experience undertaking Section 47 enquiries and managing safeguarding processes.
• Strong understanding of trauma-informed practice.
• Excellent assessment, analysis, and report-writing skills.
• Ability to work effectively within a multi-agency environment.

Why Plymouth

Plymouth offers a rewarding practice environment with a strong commitment to safeguarding children and supporting families. This role provides an opportunity to work within an established service where experienced practitioners are valued and supported to deliver high-quality outcomes.

Working with Ardent Social

At Ardent Social, we are passionate about connecting experienced social work professionals with high-quality opportunities across the UK. We pride ourselves on providing a transparent, supportive, and professional recruitment experience tailored to your career goals and aspirations.

Apply now to join Children’s Social Work and Permanence Services in Plymouth and take the next exciting step in your social work career with Ardent Social.