Job Title: Court Principal Manager – Location: Stoke-on-Trent, UK – Salary: £41.42 per hour – Type: Full Time / Part Time, Ongoing
Perks and Benefits
- Flexible Working: Balancing work responsibilities with personal commitments.
- Competitive Pay: Generous hourly pay recognising specialised expertise.
- Professional Growth: Opportunities for further training and development.
- Networking Opportunities: Connections with legal professionals, judiciary, and partner agencies.
What you will do
- Lead and manage the court team, ensuring compliance with the Children Act 1989 and Public Law Outline timescales.
- Provide expert advice and guidance to senior leaders and practitioners on legal thresholds, evidential standards, and case progression.
- Oversee the quality assurance of court reports, statements, and care plans to ensure robust analysis and defensible decision‑making.
- Chair or contribute to legal planning meetings, gateway panels, and permanence tracking forums.
- Develop and maintain effective working relationships with Legal Services, Cafcass, judiciary, and external partners.
- Monitor performance regarding court timelines and outcomes, contributing to service improvement plans and Ofsted readiness.
- Lead on complex and high‑risk cases, providing escalation, oversight, and resolution to ensure children's safety and permanence.
Person Specification
Qualifications
- Degree in Social Work (BA/MA or equivalent).
- Post‑qualifying training in leadership, management, or advanced practice is desirable.
Registration & Compliance
- Registered with Social Work England.
- Extensive knowledge of the Children Act 1989/2004, Public Law Outline (PLO), and care proceedings.
Key Skills
- Advanced leadership and management capabilities within statutory children's services.
- Expert knowledge of court processes and legal frameworks.
Experience
- Significant post‑qualifying experience in children's social care, especially within court work and care proceedings.
- Experience leading teams within local authorities.
