Senior Practitioner – Children and Young People with Disabilities, Mid Essex

TN United Kingdom; Chelmsford; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Senior Practitioner to lead and mentor a dedicated team working with children and young people with disabilities. This role focuses on improving outcomes for vulnerable children by managing complex cases, supporting families, and ensuring adherence to statutory frameworks. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in social work, particularly in child protection and legislative knowledge. Join a dynamic environment that values innovation and community service, and make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people in Essex.

Qualifications

• Registered social worker with a diploma in social work or equivalent.
• Ongoing professional development in children services.

Responsibilities

• Manage complex caseloads and conduct assessments.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to the team.
• Contribute to service development and maintain records.

Skills

Social Work

Child Protection

Assessment Skills

Mentorship

Advocacy

Education

Diploma in Social Work

Job description

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Senior Practitioner – Children and Young People with Disabilities, Mid Essex, Chelmsford

Client: Essex County Council

Location:

Job Category: Other

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EU work permit required: Yes

Job Reference: 07854f185f67

Job Views: 4

Posted: 02.05.2025

Expiry Date: 16.06.2025

Job Description:

Senior Practitioner – Children and Young People with Disabilities, Mid Essex

Fixed Term, Full Time

Working Style:

This is a Fixed Term Contract / Secondment opportunity for up to 9 months.

The service includes teams for children and young people with disabilities, child and family support, preparation for adulthood, occupational therapy, and service development. It aims to improve outcomes for children and young people (birth to 25 years) with disabilities, aligning with SEND reforms.

The Children with Disabilities Team works with children aged 0-16 years and is based in County Hall, Chelmsford, serving mid Essex.

The role requires working under legislation such as the Children Act 1989 & 2004, Children and Families Act 2014, Care Act 2014, and Mental Capacity Act 2005, among others.

The Role

The Senior Practitioner provides leadership, mentorship, oversees duty, and supports the team. Responsibilities include reviewing child in need plans, leading practice areas, and contributing to service development. The role involves maintaining high standards of social work, developing partnerships, and supporting colleagues.

• Manage complex caseloads, conduct assessments, and provide advice and support.
• Support families, facilitate transitions to adulthood, and develop support networks.
• Assist with team management, including meetings, supervision, and deputising.
• Contribute to service development, maintain records, and produce reports.
• Build relationships across agencies, offer advocacy, and pursue professional development.

Additional Responsibilities

• Provide expert advice, support vulnerable adults, and work within statutory frameworks.
• Lead case conferences, court attendance, and safeguard assessments.
• Mentor staff, chair meetings, and develop community relationships.
• Understand financial aspects of care and assess risks clearly.

The Experience You Will Bring

• Diploma in Social Work or equivalent, with registration as a social worker.
• Evidence of ongoing professional development and recent practice experience in children services.
• Experience with child protection, court work, and relevant legislation.
• Knowledge of child development and legal processes.

The role requires mobility across Essex, including driving or alternative means of transportation, and a valid driving license.

Why Essex?

Essex offers a dynamic environment with flexible working options, a focus on innovation, and a commitment to community service. The county is progressing towards establishing a Mayoral Combined County Authority by 2026. Essex County Council is dedicated to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults and promotes a respectful workplace.