Child Protection Social Worker

Placements24; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 46,000 - 56,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional training

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dedicated Child Protection Social Worker to operate in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. The role focuses on investigating abuse/neglect, ensuring child safety, and coordinating with law enforcement and community services to protect vulnerable children.

Expect to develop intervention plans, provide crisis support, and document cases for court proceedings. On-site work and extensive travel within the region are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Social Work is mandatory.
• Current SACSSP registration required.
• Minimum 4 years of child protection experience.
• Strong knowledge of child development and relevant legislation.

Responsibilities

• Conduct investigations into allegations of child abuse and neglect.
• Assess safety and risk factors for children in home environments.
• Develop and implement child protection plans and safety plans.
• Provide crisis intervention and support services to at-risk children and families.
• Collaborate with law enforcement, courts, schools, and healthcare providers.
• Prepare reports for legal proceedings and internal reviews.
• Provide testimony in court as required.
• Advocate for children's rights within the system.
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings.

Skills

Investigative skills

Risk assessment

Crisis intervention

Report writing

Education

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)

SACSSP registration

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a vital agency committed to safeguarding the welfare of children, is seeking a dedicated Child Protection Social Worker for their **Queenstown, Eastern Cape** office. This crucial role involves investigating child abuse and neglect cases, providing intervention, and ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable children within the **Queenstown** community. You will work collaboratively with families, law enforcement, and other stakeholders to protect children and promote healthy family environments. The ideal candidate will possess strong investigative skills, a deep commitment to child rights, and the ability to manage emotionally challenging situations with professionalism and resilience. This position requires dedicated on-site work within the **Eastern Cape**.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough investigations into allegations of child abuse, neglect, and maltreatment.
• Assess the safety and risk factors for children in their home environments.
• Develop and implement comprehensive child protection plans, including safety plans and intervention strategies.
• Provide crisis intervention and support services to children and families in immediate danger.
• Facilitate therapeutic services and referrals for children and families impacted by abuse or neglect.
• Collaborate closely with law enforcement, courts, schools, and healthcare providers to ensure coordinated child protection efforts.
• Prepare detailed reports and case documentation for legal proceedings and internal reviews.
• Provide testimony in court as required regarding child protection cases.
• Advocate for the rights and needs of children within the child protection system.
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and case consultations.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Social Work (BSW) is mandatory.
• Current registration with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP).
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in child protection services or a closely related field.
• Extensive knowledge of child development, child abuse dynamics, and relevant legislation (e.g., Children's Act).
• Proven experience in conducting investigations and risk assessments for children.
• Strong crisis management and intervention skills.
• Excellent report writing and case management abilities.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage emotionally taxing situations.
• Strong collaboration and advocacy skills.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel extensively within **Queenstown** and the **Eastern Cape**.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and a retirement fund, and opportunities for specialized training in child protection. You will work in a critical role making a direct impact on child safety within the **Eastern Cape**. Join a dedicated team committed to protecting the most vulnerable members of our community in **Queenstown**.