Description Cornwall Council is seeking an experienced and confident Principal Social Worker to join our Child Protection Team based in Truro. This is a key leadership role within a frontline statutory service, supporting children and families across the Mid Cornwall area. We are looking for a skilled practitioner with strong safeguarding experience, the ability to work dynamically in complex situations, and the leadership capability to support colleagues and deputise for management when required. Responsibilities As a Principal Social Worker, your duties will include: Carrying out Child in Need, Child Protection and Child in Care visits, completing assessments and evaluating parental capacity to safeguard children. Leading and chairing meetings including CIN meetings, Core Groups, Placement Planning Meetings, and, where appropriate, s.47 Strategy Discussions. Undertaking s.47 enquiries, completing child protection investigations, and contributing to PLO and Court Work. Conducting home visits and undertaking direct work with children aged 0–18. Managing duty responsibilities and responding to urgent safeguarding concerns. Providing professional support, guidance, and supervision to social workers within the team. Deputising for the Team Manager when required and contributing to the Area Management Team.Requirements We are seeking an experienced Social Worker with: A recognised Social Work qualification and Social Work England registration. Significant experience within frontline statutory children’s services, including Child Protection, CIN, and Court Work. Strong leadership capabilities, including supervising staff and supporting performance and practice development. Confidence in chairing meetings and supporting strategic decision-making across the service.How to Apply If you are interested in this opportunity, please call Chris Richardson on (phone number removed) or email your CV to (url removed). If this role isn’t the right fit for you but you know someone who would be perfect, you can receive a £350 referral bonus for successful referrals. The benefits of working with SCS include: A dedicated Social Work consultant and single point of contact £350 referral bonuses Access to a large range of exclusive Social Work roles across the UK Twice-weekly payroll PAYE and Ltd company payment options Up to £250 annual training budget and ongoing CPD Free, fast-track DBS Annual loyalty bonuses