3 Month Contract With A local Authority Job Purpose An experienced and skilled social worker is required to join a fast-paced Child in Need (CIN) team. The successful candidate will carry a complex caseload, including children on Child in Need and Child Protection (CP) plans, and will be expected to initiate court proceedings, complete statutory assessments, and produce high-quality court reports. Key Responsibilities: Manage a complex caseload of children and families, including those subject to CIN and CP plans. Complete statutory Family Assessments within required timescales, using evidence-based tools and direct work with children and families. Develop, implement, and review Child in Need and Child Protection plans in partnership with families and multi-agency professionals. Initiate and progress care proceedings where necessary, ensuring robust planning and legal compliance. Prepare and present high-quality court documentation, including Section 7 (S7) and Section 37 (S37) reports, for Family and Public Law proceedings. Attend and contribute to Child Protection Conferences, core group meetings, legal planning meetings, and court hearings as required. Maintain clear, accurate, and up-to-date case records and reports, in line with statutory requirements and local policies. Work collaboratively with internal teams and external agencies (e.g., health, education, police) to ensure children's needs are met holistically. Provide mentorship and support to less experienced staff, students, or newly qualified social workers (NQSWs), where appropriate. Adhere to statutory guidance, local safeguarding procedures, and the Social Work England Professional Standards. Requirements: Qualified Social Worker with current Social Work England registration. Extensive post-qualification experience in statutory children's social work, particularly CIN, CP, and court work. Strong understanding of the Children Act 1989 and 2004, Working Together to Safeguard Children, and court processes. Skilled in completing high-quality assessments, risk analysis, and planning under pressure. Confident in working autonomously and making complex decisions in the best interests of children. Enhanced DBS