Social Work Advanced Practitioner (CSC)

Description

Knowsley Council’s Child Protection Team is looking for an experienced and highly motivated Social Worker to help safeguard and promote the welfare of our most vulnerable children. Working within a supportive environment where practice standards are judged “good” or “outstanding”, you will manage a varied and complex caseload, contribute to service improvement and mentor less‑experienced colleagues. We offer manageable workloads, strong professional supervision and ongoing development opportunities so you can excel and progress.

Responsibilities

1. Undertake timely, high‑quality assessments in line with the Children Act and Working Together guidance.
2. Manage complex Child Protection, Child in Need and court‑related cases, ensuring effective planning and regular review.
3. Formulate care plans that reflect children’s wishes and feelings and coordinate multi‑agency interventions.
4. Prepare clear, evidence‑based reports and provide professional testimony in care and private law proceedings.
5. Maintain comprehensive, up‑to‑date case records using electronic systems.
6. Mentor and support ASYE and less‑experienced social workers; share specialist knowledge within the team.
7. Represent the service at child protection conferences, strategy meetings and other multi‑agency forums.
8. Champion good practice, equality and safeguarding standards across the service.

Requirements

1. Degree/DipSW in Social Work and registration with Social Work England.
2. Substantial post‑qualifying experience in statutory children’s social care, including safeguarding and court work.
3. Thorough knowledge of current legislation, guidance and best practice in child protection.
4. Strong analytical, assessment and report‑writing skills; able to present complex information clearly in court.
5. Proven ability to work collaboratively across agencies and to engage families from diverse backgrounds.
6. Commitment to continuous professional development; Practice Educator qualification (or willingness to work towards) desirable.
7. Capacity to manage challenging work, exercise emotional resilience and model the Council’s values of integrity, accountability, communication and respect.

How to Apply

If you are interested, please call Chris Richardson on 01772 208964 or email your CV to Christopher.richardson@servicecare.org.uk.