Lead Practitioner, Children in Care – Mentorship & Impact

Essex County Counci; Basildon; On-site; GBP 48,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

Essex County Council is seeking a Senior Practitioner in Children in Care for the South Essex area, based in Basildon. This permanent, full-time role provides leadership within the team, mentors new staff, and oversees duty service while deputising for the Team Manager as required.

You will work within CIC teams for children in care up to 18, focusing on care planning, multi-agency collaboration, and ensuring high quality safeguarding, with opportunities for professional development.

Qualifications

• A recognised social work qualification i.e. Diploma, degree or masters in social work, with current registration with Social Work England.
• Evidence of continuing professional development aligned to Professional Competency/Capability frameworks or Knowledge and Skills Statements.
• Significant experience of social work with up-to-date understanding of relevant legislation, regulation and guidance.
• Experience mentoring SW students and newly qualified/experienced staff as a subject matter expert.
• Experience chairing meetings involving clients, family members and/or carers and other multi‑agency professionals.
• Developing strong relationships with partners, other agencies and the local community to achieve joint objectives.
• In depth understanding of value for money interventions balanced against need.
• Proven track record of clear decision making to highlight and limit risks.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership in the team and support/mentoring to staff.
• Facilitate reflective group supervision and oversee the duty service.
• Deputise for the Team Manager when needed and lead in a practice area.
• Lead in professional social work practice as a subject matter expert.
• Develop and maintain strong inter-agency relationships to support children and families.
• Ensure delivery of safeguarding and timely decision making.

Skills

Social work qualification

Professional development

Mentoring

Stakeholder collaboration

Decision making

Education

Social work degree

Registration with Social Work England

Job description

Essex County Council is seeking a Senior Practitioner in Children in Care for the South Essex area, based in Basildon. This permanent, full-time role provides leadership within the team, mentors new staff, and oversees duty service while deputising for the Team Manager as required.

You will work within CIC teams for children in care up to 18, focusing on care planning, multi-agency collaboration, and ensuring high quality safeguarding, with opportunities for professional development.