Senior Practitioner – Children in Care, North Essex

TN United Kingdom; Colchester; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in children's social care is seeking a Senior Practitioner for a 12-month fixed-term role in Colchester. This full-time position offers a competitive salary and the chance to manage complex caseloads while leading a dedicated team. You'll play a crucial role in safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing of vulnerable children and families, working collaboratively across various agencies. If you're passionate about making a difference and have a strong background in social work, this is an exciting opportunity to further your career in a supportive environment that values diversity and professional development.

Qualifications

• Recognized social work qualification with current registration.
• Significant social work experience and knowledge of legislation.

Responsibilities

• Manage complex caseloads and provide supervision.
• Assess social care needs and develop support plans.

Skills

Social Work

Mentoring

Assessment

Decision-Making

Education

Social Work Qualification (Diploma, Degree, or Master's)

Job description

Job Description

This is a 12-month Secondment or Fixed-term contract opportunity based in Colchester, with a salary ranging from £45,217 to £54,395 per annum. The role is full-time, fixed term, and requires an EU work permit.

Essex County Council is proud of its outstanding Ofsted ratings and commitment to workforce development. We focus on flexibility and wellbeing for our colleagues in children's social care, fostering a culture of collaboration, integrity, and compassion.

The Opportunity

Children and Families services promote development, wellbeing, and protection for children, young people, and their families. The Senior Practitioner manages complex caseloads, provides supervision and coaching, and deputizes for the Team Manager, leading the team and managing duty services.

Accountabilities

• Provide expert advice and contribute to practice standards development.
• Assess complex social care needs and develop support plans for vulnerable children and families.
• Work within legal frameworks, policies, and guidance, determining when statutory intervention is necessary.
• Manage caseloads, maintain accurate data, and participate in case conferences and reviews.
• Conduct assessments and plan responses to safeguard children’s welfare.
• Build strong relationships across the council, partners, and voluntary agencies.
• Lead in specific areas of practice and contribute to their development.

Experience Required

• Recognized social work qualification (Diploma, degree, or master's), with current registration with Social Work England.
• Evidence of ongoing professional development.
• Significant social work experience with up-to-date knowledge of legislation and guidance.
• Experience mentoring social workers and chairing multi-agency meetings.
• Ability to develop partnerships and demonstrate decision-making skills.

The role requires mobility across Essex and beyond, including travel and transporting service users. A driving license and access to a vehicle are essential.

Essex County Council values diversity and is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults. We encourage applications from disabled individuals, veterans, and care leavers, offering reasonable adjustments during recruitment.