Child Protection Social Worker

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 350,000 - 650,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Annual leave

Professional development opportunities

Employee assistance program

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dedicated Child Protection Social Worker to join a remote, empowered team focused on safeguarding vulnerable children in South Africa. The role emphasizes autonomous case management, risk assessments, intervention planning and collaboration with families, agencies, and courts.

You will conduct assessments, provide crisis support, document findings, and advocate for children's best interests within ethical frameworks, while leveraging technology for communication and

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Social Work required.
• Registered with SACSSP.
• Minimum 4 years of child protection experience.
• Knowledge of SA child welfare law and policies.
• Experience with risk assessments and intervention planning.
• Strong interviewing, counseling, and advocacy skills.
• Proficient in virtual platforms for case management and communication.
• Good report writing and independent caseload management.

Responsibilities

• Conduct risk and needs assessments for children suspected of abuse or neglect.
• Develop and implement child protection plans with families and agencies.
• Provide crisis intervention for children and families.
• Investigate allegations and document findings.
• Coordinate with law enforcement, courts, schools and service providers.
• Prepare reports for court proceedings and case reviews.
• Offer counseling and therapeutic support to children and families.
• Advocate for children's rights within legal and social systems.
• Maintain confidential case records using designated software.
• Participate in supervision and team meetings.

Skills

MSW

SACSSP registration

Risk assessment

Intervention planning

Counseling

Report writing

Remote work

Ethical practice

Advocacy

Case management

Education

Master's degree in Social Work

Tools

Case management software

Video conferencing

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Child Protection Social Worker to join their critical services team. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to contribute meaningfully to safeguarding vulnerable children from anywhere. You will play a vital role in assessing risks, providing interventions, and advocating for the best interests of children. This remote-first role requires a high degree of autonomy, excellent case management skills, and a strong commitment to child welfare ethics. You will be an integral part of a passionate team working collaboratively to ensure child safety and well-being. The successful candidate will leverage technology to conduct assessments, maintain records, and communicate with stakeholders effectively. We are looking for individuals who are resilient, empathetic, and driven to make a difference in the lives of children. This role is essential in ensuring that children receive the protection and support they deserve, regardless of geographical barriers.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough risk and needs assessments for children suspected of abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
• Develop and implement comprehensive child protection plans in collaboration with families and relevant agencies.
• Provide crisis intervention and support to children and families in emergency situations.
• Investigate allegations of child abuse and neglect, gathering evidence and documenting findings.
• Liaise with law enforcement, courts, schools, and other service providers to coordinate care and interventions.
• Prepare detailed reports for court proceedings and case reviews.
• Provide counseling and therapeutic support to children and their families.
• Advocate for the rights and well-being of children within the legal and social systems.
• Maintain accurate, confidential, and up-to-date case records using designated software.
• Participate in regular supervision and team meetings to discuss cases and professional development.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Social Work (MSW) or a related field such as Psychology or Sociology.
• Registered with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP).
• A minimum of 4 years of experience specifically in child protection services.
• In-depth knowledge of child welfare legislation, policies, and best practices in South Africa.
• Proven experience in conducting risk assessments and developing intervention plans.
• Excellent interviewing, counseling, and advocacy skills.
• Proficiency in utilizing virtual platforms for case management, client interaction, and team collaboration.
• Strong report writing skills and the ability to present complex information clearly.
• Ability to work independently, manage a caseload effectively, and meet deadlines in a remote setting.
• Demonstrated resilience, empathy, and a strong ethical compass.

Benefits

• This role offers a competitive salary package ranging from R per annum , commensurate with experience.
• As a fully remote position, you will enjoy significant flexibility and autonomy.
• comprehensive medical aid
• retirement fund contributions
• generous annual leave
• Continuous professional development opportunities, including training and workshops, are provided to support your career growth.
• You will be part of a supportive and mission-driven team that is dedicated to making a profound impact on the lives of children.
• Employee assistance programs are also available for your well-being.