Casual Senior Practitioner (s)

We value diverse perspectives and experiences and are striving to create a workplace culture that is inclusive, accepting of all, and free from discrimination and bias.

At Coventry City Council, we are embarking on an incredible journey to create a brighter future for Coventry's children. As a 'Good' Local Authority, we believe in pushing boundaries and delivering excellence for children and families. Our vision is clear, and our social workers are unwavering in their commitment to putting children and families at the centre of their practice.

Be part of our inspiring team, making a meaningful difference in the lives of Coventry's children. Together, let's create a nurturing environment where every child's potential can flourish.

In line with our One Coventry Values, we want to ensure that our communities are represented across our workforce. A vital part of this is ensuring we are a truly inclusive organisation that encourages diversity in all respects, including diversity of thinking. We particularly welcome applicants from minority ethnic, LGBT+, disabled, and neurodiverse communities to make a real difference to our residents so that equity and respect remain at the heart of everything we do.

Our Values are:

• Open and fair: We are fair, open, and transparent.
• Nurture and develop: We help and encourage everyone to be their best and do their best.
• Engage and empower: We talk and listen to others, working together as one.
• Create and innovate: We embrace new ways of working to continuously improve.
• Own and be accountable: We work together to deliver the best services for our residents.
• Value and respect: We put diversity and inclusion at the heart of all we do.

As a member of the Children's Services Management team, you will be responsible for managing and delivering an effective and efficient service for children, adults, young people, and their families. You will assist the Operational Lead and Team Manager in delivering a professional service through providing supervision and adhering to the Social Work England code of practice for social workers.

Within the Council's Responsive Services, you will be a key figure in the Emergency Duty Team (out of hours social care), providing essential support services outside of standard hours to address urgent social care needs and reduce emergencies. EDT handles social care emergencies that cannot be safely deferred to the next working day, responding to the entire Coventry community, including Children's Services, Housing, Adult Social Care, and Youth Justice Services, considering overarching principles and objectives.

The post holder will oversee/support the work of Children and Family Workers. In partnership with agencies, you will respond to all requests for assistance received during your shift, focusing on promoting and safeguarding the welfare of children, adults, and families in Coventry until core working hours. Responsibilities include acting as a main contact for callers, providing advice, completing risk assessments, signposting, coordinating responses, and sometimes responding in person. You may act on behalf of the Local Authority in complex matters, including liaising with legal services and court representation. Administrative tasks will also be part of your role to ensure the cohesion of Responsive Services.

This position is exempted under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, and appointment is conditional upon a satisfactory DBS check.

We seek inclusive leaders who value diversity and promote a culture of respect, collaboration, and continuous improvement. We want individuals committed to creating an environment where everyone feels valued and supported.

You should be passionate about practice, sharing learning and knowledge, and developing others.

You must be a qualified and experienced Social Worker with:

• A current registration with Social Work England.
• Knowledge of relevant legislation, policies, and procedures.
• Ability to work under pressure and make sound decisions.
• Knowledge of assessment methods, care management, and casework.
• Experience in statutory work with adults, children, and housing matters.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective relationships with adults, children, young people, and families.

If you need help or support to complete your application, please visit our accessibility page for assistance.

Guaranteed Interview Scheme - We offer guaranteed interviews for specific groups, including Armed Forces members and veterans, those in or previously in care, and individuals with disabilities or long-term health conditions. To qualify, you must meet the role's minimum requirements and identify with one of these groups.

For full application details, see the 'Coventry City Council Application Process' document on our jobs page. Any evidence of AI use to complete applications will result in rejection unless justified reasonably.

Interview date: 13th May. For an informal chat about this role, contact Sherrie McMahon at sherrie.mcmahon@coventry.gov.uk.

Coventry has a proud, innovative, and creative spirit that has historically brought communities together to tackle problems and foster social change.

We are cutting-edge, challenging, youthful, vibrant, and diverse. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our approximately 5,100 staff from various backgrounds, dedicated to serving our community with responsibility, collaboration, and innovation.

Join us to make a real difference. We offer an excellent rewards and benefits package. More details are available at https://www.coventry.gov.uk/council-vacancies