Post Title: Solicitor
Contract Type: permanent
Grade/Salary: Grade 9
Working Pattern: 37 hours per week (flexible patterns will be considered)
Location: City Hall/Agile
Join our Team
At Together for Children, we are passionate about making a real difference in the lives of children and young people in Sunderland. We are seeking an experienced child protection solicitor to join our dedicated and supportive team. If you’re committed to safeguarding children, helping families and our community thrive and have the skills to support our mission, we would love to hear from you. You can learn more about us here Together For Children-Together For Children
About the role
As a Solicitor working for Together for Children, you will play a crucial role in representing and advocating for children in need of protection. You will handle a diverse caseload, providing expert legal advice and representation in child protection matters. Your work will involve close collaboration with social care managers and other stakeholders to ensure the best outcomes for children. You will be responsible for preparing and maintaining your own case files, ensuring all documentation is accurate and up to date and conducting legal research, staying updated on relevant legislation and case law. This is your opportunity to advocate for the rights and welfare of children in all proceedings.
This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and therefore will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check from the Disclosure and Barring Service.
We want you to apply if you have:
Qualification of Solicitor/Barrister or Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (with litigation advocacy rights)
Thorough understanding of child protection legislation and procedures
Experience in the application of child protection or family law
Proven ability to manage a demanding caseload with attention to detail
Excellent advocacy and negotiation skills
Why work with us?
Make a difference: Our work matters. The work we do is incredibly rewarding, join us and make a difference in the lives of our children, families and community.
Inclusion: Thrive in our diverse and inclusive culture and be part of our employee networks including Accessibility, LGBTQ+, and Racial Equality.
Work-Life Balance: We offer a hybrid model of working with agile and flexible working arrangements, including part-time opportunities, flexible hours, and the possibility of remote work arrangements.
Professional Development: Advance your career with our comprehensive induction, supervision, peer support and supportive environment.
Be part of a happier, healthier workforce: Benefit from our wide range of wellbeing activities and employee assistance programmes.
We strongly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including but not limited to various ages, disabilities, neurodiverse individuals, gender identities, sexual orientations, religions, beliefs, races and ethnicities. We aim for our team to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.
We are committed to making our application process accessible to everyone. Please reach out to our Accessibility Network Chair or peoplesupport@togetherforchildren.org.uk so we can discuss any adjustments or support we can provide during the recruitment process or within the workplace.
We operate a guaranteed interview scheme for applicants that can show they meet all the essential criteria and have indicated they have a disability, are a looked after young person, care experienced or a veteran.
Ready to make a difference?
Contact Sarah Brown, Legal Services Manager, sarah.brown@togetherforchildren.org.uk for an informal discussion.
Apply online at select 'Apply Now' and complete our online application form.
Closing date: 16 February 2025
Interview Date: 25 February 2025