Job Description
Principal Social Worker
Location: Sawbridgeworth, Hertfordshire
Salary: £45,000 - £48,000
Hours: Full-time, 9-5 with flexibility (office-based with potential for 1 day from home)
Holiday: 28 days
We are seeking an experienced and proactive Principal Social Worker to join our growing team. Reporting to the Centre Manager, you will work within an expanding unit, taking on a vital role that requires confidence, independence, and strong team collaboration. This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled social worker with a solid background in child protection and court work.
Must-Haves
* Minimum 2 years experience in a similar role
* Team-oriented yet able to work independently
* Court experience is essential
* Previous experience as a resident social worker
Key Responsibilities
* Assess the parenting capacity of families, providing guidance and supervision.
* Prepare reports and maintain accurate records.
* Attend court to give oral evidence as needed.
* Develop and lead parenting sessions within the centre.
* Supervise junior staff, including family support workers, student social workers, and contact workers; provide interim management support when required.
* Review and assess referrals from Local Authorities, solicitors, and other parties, completing viability assessments and marketing services to Local Authorities.
* Participate in pre-placement planning, LAC, disruption, and statutory review meetings for placed families; chair these meetings when required.
* Adhere to professional and ethical standards.
* Conduct regular staff reviews and supervisions in line with National Minimum Standards.
* Manage a caseload, completing reports within set timelines.
* Provide daily support to families and assist with centre maintenance and safety.
* Ensure effective data management for families in line with Data Protection laws.
* Stay informed on legislation relevant to residential family services (e.g., The Children Act, National Minimum Standards).
* Maintain confidentiality in all work aspects, following the Data Protection Act.
* Identify and implement improvements in service processes.
* Liaise with senior managers to address general enquiries.
* Generate reports and statistical data, meeting all timescales and deadlines.
* Prioritise workload effectively and meet deadlines.
* Attend training courses as directed by the line manager.
* Maintain effective communication with colleagues, external agencies, and professionals (e.g., Social Workers, Guardians, solicitors, Police, Education, Health).
* Support Directors in preparation for Ofsted inspections and fulfilling Commissioners requirements.
* Perform other relevant duties as required.
Perks of Joining
* Friendly, close-knit team
* Opportunities for professional development
* Flexible, family-friendly working environment
For more information, please call Emma at Minerva Recruitment on 01206 584170 option 2.
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