Senior Practitioner: Lead & Mentor Social Workers

Essex County Counci; Colchester; On-site; GBP 39,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

Essex County Council in Colchester seeks a Senior Practitioner to lead the Children & Families Hub, mentor social workers, and deputise for Team Managers when needed. You will oversee Early Help and triage work, ensuring timely progression within statutory timescales.

The role emphasises relationship-based social work, innovative interventions, and collaboration with external partners to support children, young people and families across Essex.

Qualifications

• A recognised social work qualification with current registration in Social Work England.
• Evidence of continuing professional development aligned to relevant frameworks.
• Experience mentoring social workers and staff as a subject matter expert.
• Ability to build strong relationships with partners and the community.
• Clear decision making with focus on safeguarding and outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert advice and professional supervision for social workers and staff.
• Work within statutory frameworks and determine threshold for intervention.
• Maintain oversight of Requests for Support and ensure timely progress.
• Develop partnerships with councils, agencies and voluntary sector to support children and families.
• Lead on practice standards and quality assurance activities.

Skills

Social work leadership

Mentoring

Relationship building

Decision making

Education

Diploma/degree/Masters in social work

Job description

Essex County Council in Colchester seeks a Senior Practitioner to lead the Children & Families Hub, mentor social workers, and deputise for Team Managers when needed. You will oversee Early Help and triage work, ensuring timely progression within statutory timescales.

The role emphasises relationship-based social work, innovative interventions, and collaboration with external partners to support children, young people and families across Essex.