Job Title
Social Worker - Private Law
Hours
37 Hours per Week
Location
Wildwood
Team
Permanency Planning and Support Team
Employment Type
Permanent
Salary
£33,699 to £41,771 per annum, plus £4,000 annual market forces
The Role
Worcestershire County Council are looking for skilled, child‑focused Social Workers to join the rollout of the Pathfinder model in Worcestershire. Pathfinder is a pioneering approach to private law family court cases that puts the child’s voice and experience at the centre of every decision. This new and transformative pilot scheme aims to break the cycle of lengthy, adversarial proceedings by helping families resolve disputes earlier and more constructively.
As a Social Worker in this team, you will complete Child Impact Reports – a report prepared before the first hearing. The early intervention helps courts and families understand the child’s needs from the outset, reducing delays and conflict. You will be part of a forward‑thinking and supportive team helping to shape the future of family justice with real potential to make a lasting difference in children’s lives.
We are looking for Social Workers who are:
* Passionate about improving outcomes for children, especially those affected by parental separation and conflict
* Confident in engaging with families during emotionally charged situations, with empathy and professionalism
* Skilled in assessment and report writing, able to produce clear, focused Child Impact Reports that inform Court decisions
* Collaborative and proactive, working closely with domestic abuse services and other agencies
* Committed to safeguarding, with a strong understanding of trauma‑informed practice and the impact of separation and conflict on children
About You
* Will produce good quality Child Impact Reports and S37s in line with national Pathfinder guidance
* Work directly with children, parents and carers to understand their experiences, wishes and feelings
* Liaise effectively with Cafcass, the Family Court and partner agencies to support safe and timely outcomes
* Provide clear, evidence‑based analysis and recommendations to assist the court and families in decision‑making
* Maintain accurate and timely case records in accordance with statutory requirements and local policy
* Contribute to service learning and development as part of a reflective and supportive team environment
* Have a strong understanding of private law work, including the types of orders the court may make and how these impact children and families
Experience of court work (public or private law) is highly desirable, but full training and professional support will be provided.
Why Join Us
* Work within a supportive, reflective and forward‑thinking environment
* Access high‑quality training, supervision and development opportunities
* Enjoy flexible and hybrid working arrangements
* Join a service that values innovation, professional integrity and putting children first
Benefits
Worcestershire County Council offers a range of benefits. Some include:
* Great Holiday Entitlement: 26 days paid holiday (pro‑rata for part‑time staff), increasing to 31 days after 5 years. If you join without a break we will match your holiday up to 31 days.
* Brilliant Pension Scheme: The Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
* Professional Learning & Development: We actively encourage learning and development for all staff.
* Flexible Working: Hybrid working to provide better work/life balance where possible.
Disclosure Barring Service (DBS)
This post is exempt under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and will be conditional upon a satisfactory DBS check before appointment. The check includes cautions, reprimands, final warnings and convictions. The Council is committed to safeguarding service users in our care.
Equality & Diversity
The County Council is committed to equality of opportunity for all citizens and celebrates the diversity of all its residents.
Application Closing Date
24th April 2026
Attached Documents
Children's Social Worker JD PS.pdf
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