Senior Practitioner - Children & Young People with Disabilities

Essex County Council; Chelmsford; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Senior Practitioner to lead and mentor within a dynamic team focused on improving outcomes for children and young people with disabilities. This role emphasizes a relationship-based approach, offering opportunities for professional growth and service development. You will manage complex cases, support families, and collaborate with external agencies, all while adhering to key legislation. Join a vibrant community committed to innovation and flexible working, making a real difference in the lives of children and their families.

Benefits

Flexible Working Options

Support for Unpaid Carers

Professional Development Opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience in Children Services and court work.
• Knowledge of relevant legislation and child development.

Responsibilities

• Managing complex caseloads and providing integrated services.
• Leading service development initiatives and building external partnerships.

Skills

Social Work

Child Protection

Legal Knowledge

IT Skills

Education

Diploma in Social Work

CQSW or CSS

Job description

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

Fixed Term, Full Time

£45,217 to £54,395 Per Annum

Location: Chelmsford

Working Style: Community-based worker

Please note that this is a Fixed Term Contract / Secondment opportunity for up to 9 months.

The Service includes teams such as Children with Disabilities, Young People with Disabilities, Child and Family Support Services, Preparation for Adulthood Advisors, Occupational Therapy, and a Core Service Development team. It is a dynamic service focused on improving outcomes for children and young people with disabilities (birth to 25 years) and their families, aligned with SEND reforms.

The Children with Disabilities Team supports children aged 0-16 years and operates in the Mid Essex area from County Hall, Chelmsford.

The role requires adherence to legislation including the Children Act 1989 and 2004, Children and Families Act 2014, Care Act 2014, and Mental Capacity Act 2005, among others.

For more about us, visit: Children & Families. Watch our 'No Magic' video to learn more.

The Role

The Senior Practitioner provides leadership, support, and mentoring within the team, manages complex caseloads, oversees reviews, and deputises for the Team Manager. The role offers opportunities for professional development and service development, emphasizing a relationship-based approach with service users and partners.

Key responsibilities include:

1. Managing complex caseloads with assessments, advice, and support.
2. Providing integrated services to support families and transitions to adulthood.
3. Monitoring unmet needs and developing support networks.
4. Supporting team management activities, including supervision and meetings.
5. Leading service development initiatives.
6. Maintaining records, reports, and participating in reviews.
7. Building partnerships with external agencies.
8. Offering advocacy and advice to service users.
9. Engaging in ongoing training and development.

Additional Responsibilities

Providing specialist advice, supporting legal and statutory processes, managing data, participating in court and case reviews, mentoring staff, and understanding financial aspects of care packages.

The Experience You Will Bring

• Diploma in Social Work, CQSW, CSS, or equivalent.
• Social Work England Registration.
• Continuing professional development evidence.
• IT skills.
• Experience in Children Services, including Child Protection and court work.
• Knowledge of relevant legislation and child development.

Applicants must be mobile across Essex, with a driving license or alternative mobility arrangements.

Why Essex?

Essex offers a vibrant environment with flexible working, innovation, and a commitment to community service. It is a leader in productivity and local government reform, with benefits including support for unpaid carers and flexible working options.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion, offering adjustments for applicants and employees, and promoting safeguarding and welfare of children and vulnerable adults.

For updates on opportunities, join The Essex Talent Community. For queries, contact [e-mail]. Follow us on social media for more information.