Ob Purpose:
To assess, support, and safeguard children and young people in need, ensuring their welfare and protection. You will work with children and families in a variety of challenging and sensitive situations, supporting the development and implementation of care plans, conducting assessments, and providing intervention to safeguard children.
Key Responsibilities:
Child Protection and Safeguarding:
Carry out comprehensive assessments of children’s needs, risks, and circumstances, ensuring the safety and well-being of children at all times.
Investigate allegations of abuse or neglect and act in accordance with child protection procedures, ensuring timely and appropriate interventions.
Develop and implement Child in Need and Child Protection Plans in collaboration with children, families, and multi-agency professionals.
Ensure that children’s voices are heard and considered in decisions affecting their lives.
Case Management:
Manage a caseload of children and families, providing regular support, monitoring progress, and reviewing care plans.
Work in partnership with families, carers, schools, health professionals, and other agencies to support the needs of children and young people.
Provide advice, guidance, and support to families to promote the safety, development, and emotional well-being of children.
Court Proceedings and Legal Work:
Prepare and present evidence in family court, ensuring that reports are of a high standard and comply with legal and procedural requirements.
Attend and contribute to child protection meetings, case conferences, and other legal proceedings where necessary.
Multi-Agency Collaboration:
Work collaboratively with other social workers, health professionals, education staff, and other relevant agencies to ensure a holistic approach to safeguarding and meeting children’s needs.
Participate in multi-disciplinary team meetings to provide professional input and contribute to decision-making.
Record Keeping and Documentation:
Maintain accurate, up-to-date records of interventions, assessments, and progress on case files, ensuring compliance with legal and procedural standards.
Write detailed reports for meetings, court hearings, and conferences, ensuring clarity and precision in all written communications.
Support for Families and Children:
Provide practical and emotional support to families, ensuring they have the tools and resources to care for their children in a safe and supportive environment.
Assess the needs of children in care and work to promote their stability, development, and welfare.
Professional Development:
Participate in regular supervision and team meetings, reflecting on practice and identifying areas for professional development.
Keep up to date with current legislation, research, and best practice in children’s social care and child protection.
Person Specification:
Essential Qualifications and Experience:
A Social Work qualification (e.g., Degree in Social Work, Masters in Social Work, or equivalent).
HCPC (Health and Care Professions Council) registration as a qualified social worker.
Experience in working within children’s social services, particularly in safeguarding and child protection.
Knowledge of relevant legislation, including the Children Act 1989 and 2004, and Working Together to Safeguard Children.
Strong assessment skills, with the ability to make decisions based on evidence and in the best interests of the child.
Knowledge and experience of preparing reports for legal proceedings and attending court hearings.
Skills and Abilities:
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust and rapport with children, families, and professionals.
Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage a complex caseload.
Strong problem-solving skills and a child-centred approach to social work.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Personal Attributes:
Compassionate, empathetic, and committed to making a difference in children’s lives.
High levels of resilience and emotional intelligence to deal with challenging and sensitive situations.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.