Advanced Social Work Practitioner

Job Title: Advanced Social Work Practitioner - Safeguarding CiN (Children in Need Team)**

**Location:** Worcester

**Contract Type:** Contract

**Job Description:**

**Role Overview:**
As an Advanced Social Work Practitioner in the Safeguarding Children in Need (CiN) Team, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable children and young people. You will be responsible for providing expert advice, guidance, and supervision to less experienced social workers, ensuring that high standards of practice are maintained. Your role will involve direct casework with children and families, as well as contributing to service development and improvement initiatives.

**Key Responsibilities:**

1. **Case Management:**
- Manage a complex and varied caseload of children in need, ensuring timely and appropriate interventions.
- Conduct thorough assessments of children and families, developing and implementing effective care plans.
- Monitor and review cases regularly to ensure progress and address any emerging issues.

2. **Safeguarding:**
- Identify and respond to safeguarding concerns promptly and effectively.
- Work collaboratively with multi-agency partners to safeguard children at risk of harm.
- Participate in child protection conferences, core groups, and other relevant meetings.

3. **Supervision and Support:**
- Provide high-quality supervision, mentoring, and support to less experienced social workers.
- Share expertise and best practice, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
- Support the professional development of team members through training and reflective practice.

4. **Service Development:**
- Contribute to the development and implementation of policies, procedures, and practice standards.
- Participate in service reviews and audits to ensure compliance with statutory requirements and best practice.
- Lead on specific projects or initiatives aimed at improving service delivery and outcomes for children and families.

5. **Communication and Collaboration:**
- Establish and maintain effective working relationships with children, families, colleagues, and external partners.
- Communicate complex information clearly and sensitively, both verbally and in writing.
- Advocate for children and families, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are met.

**Qualifications and Experience:**

- Degree in Social Work or equivalent qualification.
- Registration with Social Work England.
- Significant post-qualifying experience in children’s social work, particularly in safeguarding and child protection.
- Proven experience in managing complex cases and leading on safeguarding interventions.
- Experience in providing supervision and support to social workers and other professionals.

**Skills and Competencies:**

- In-depth knowledge of relevant legislation, policies, and procedures related to safeguarding and children in need.
- Strong assessment, analytical, and decision-making skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with children, families, and professionals.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team, managing workload and priorities effectively.
- Commitment to continuous professional development and reflective practice.

**Additional Requirements:**

- Enhanced DBS check.
- Valid driving license and access to a vehicle for work purposes.

**Salary:** Competitive, based on experience.

**Application Process:**
Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV and cover letter outlining their suitability for the role. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview