3 Month Contract With A local Authority Job Purpose To work with children, young people, and their families where a child has been identified as in need under Section 17 of the Children Act 1989. The postholder will assess needs, plan and deliver interventions, and promote positive outcomes while ensuring children are safeguarded and their welfare is paramount. Key Responsibilities Hold and manage a caseload of Children in Need (CIN) cases, including complex family situations. Undertake statutory assessments in line with Working Together to Safeguard Children. Develop, implement, and review Child in Need Plans, ensuring timely and outcome-focused interventions. Complete high-quality direct work with children and young people to understand their lived experiences and wishes. Identify risks and escalate concerns appropriately, including initiating child protection processes where thresholds are met. Work collaboratively with families, carers, schools, health professionals, and partner agencies. Attend and contribute to multi-agency meetings, CIN reviews, strategy discussions, and core groups where required. Ensure children’s voices are central to assessment, planning, and decision-making. Maintain accurate, timely, and analytical case records in line with local authority policies and statutory guidance. Prepare written reports for meetings, reviews, and legal proceedings when necessary. Ensure compliance with legislation, statutory guidance, and local procedures. Work in accordance with Social Work England professional standards and code of practice. Participate in supervision, training, and continuous professional development (CPD). Contribute to service development and quality improvement initiatives. Requirements Degree or equivalent qualification in Social Work. Registration with Social Work England. Experience of working with children and families within a statutory setting. Sound knowledge of the Children Act 1989, Working Together, and safeguarding legislation. Ability to assess risk, analyse information, and make professional judgments. Strong communication, report-writing, and IT skills. Experience specifically within Children in Need or Child Protection teams. Knowledge of Signs of Safety or strengths-based practice models. Court work experience.