Senior Practitioner - Children in Care, North Essex
Permanent, Full Time
£48,205 to £57,988 per annum
Location: Colchester
Working Style: Community-based worker
About The Role
The Senior Practitioner role within the Children in Care Team in Colchester combines advanced practice with meaningful leadership. You will provide leadership and support to the team, mentor staff, facilitate reflective supervision, oversee duty service, deputise for the Team Manager when needed, and lead within a practice area. You will work closely with children and young people in care, building consistent, trusting relationships that prioritise permanence, identity and long-term outcomes.
Responsibilities
* Hold a manageable, purposeful caseload that enables high-quality direct work with children in care
* Provide practice leadership, mentoring and modelling for less experienced social workers, including Newly Qualified Social Workers (ASYE)
* Have real input into decision-making, care planning and permanence planning, shaping better outcomes at both an individual and service level
About You
* Recognised social work qualification (Diploma, degree or master’s in social work, CQSW, CSS or equivalent) with current registration with Social Work England
* Evidence of continuing professional development aligned to relevant Professional Competency/Capability frameworks or Knowledge and Skills Statements
* Significant experience of social work, demonstrating a comprehensive and up-to-date understanding of all relevant legislation, regulation and guidance
* Experience of mentoring both Social Work students and newly qualified and experienced Social Work staff, being a subject matter expert in professional social work practice
* Experience of chairing meetings involving clients, family members and/or carers and other multi-agency professionals
* Developing strong relationships with partners, other agencies and the local community to achieve joint objectives and offer a supportive framework for children, young people and families
* In-depth understanding of delivery of value for money interventions balanced against need
* Proven track record of clear decision making in order to highlight and limit the potential risks associated with intervention
* Extensive experience of report writing, court attendance and giving evidence
* Ability to be mobile across Essex and beyond, requiring a driving licence and car or other suitable means of transport
Equal Opportunities
Essex County Council is a Disability Confident Leader and commits to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum requirements. We also interview veterans and care leavers who meet the minimum requirements of the role. Applicants changing gender are welcome to update names on all documentation in accordance with the Equality Act and EEO principles.
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