Principal Social Worker: Lead Practice Without Management

Cornwall Council; Telfer; Hybrid; GBP 52,000 - 68,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Welcome £4,000 bonus

Relocation package

Lease car scheme

Flexible working

26 days annual leave

Professional development

Job summary

Cornwall Council is seeking a Principal Social Worker to lead practice without moving into management, maintaining a direct practice focus and a salary aligned with Team Manager level. The role includes a small caseload, deputising duties, and developing staff in a supportive, learning-centric environment.

With a transformed Family Help model and specialist teams, the role offers flexible working options including hybrid arrangements and generous benefits as part of Cornwall’s commitment to

Qualifications

• Recognised social work qualification and SW England registration.
• 60 Master’s level post qualifying credits (with support towards a further 60 credits).
• Minimum 5 years post-qualification experience in children’s social work.
• Strong practice expertise grounded in evidence-informed approaches.

Responsibilities

• Hold a small caseload of direct work and deputise for the Team Manager.
• Develop the skills, confidence and professional curiosity of the team.
• Support continuous learning through the core learning offer and clear career pathway.

Skills

Social work expertise

Relationship-based practice

Leadership

Reflective practice

Education

Social Work qualification

Social Work England registration

Tools

Community Care Inform

Job description

Cornwall Council is seeking a Principal Social Worker to lead practice without moving into management, maintaining a direct practice focus and a salary aligned with Team Manager level. The role includes a small caseload, deputising duties, and developing staff in a supportive, learning-centric environment.

With a transformed Family Help model and specialist teams, the role offers flexible working options including hybrid arrangements and generous benefits as part of Cornwall’s commitment to