Job Description
3 - months contract with a local authority
Job Purpose
* Provide strong leadership to ensure the delivery of safe, high‑quality services for children and families in line with legislation, statutory guidance, and local policies.
* Manage the performance and professional standards of the team, ensuring practice meets national and organisational expectations.
* Contribute to the development and implementation of service plans, policies and initiatives.
* Drive continuous improvement to enhance outcomes for children, young people and families.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership
* Promote the service positively with staff, partner agencies, and service users.
* Chair meetings, lead working groups, and represent the service at internal and external forums as required.
* Provide clear direction, professional guidance, and visible leadership to the team.
Knowledge & Professional Practice
* Maintain an up‑to‑date understanding of relevant legislation, national guidance, research and departmental policies relating to children’s social care.
* Ensure practice reflects current statutory requirements and best practice developments.
Case Management Oversight
* Ensure effective allocation of cases and that all children have up‑to‑date, outcome‑focused plans.
* Oversee the quality of assessments, plans and interventions to ensure they are child‑centred and proportionate.
Supervision & Line Management
* Prioritise and provide regular, reflective supervision to team members.
* Prepare thoroughly for supervision sessions, offering constructive feedback, professional challenge and case‑related guidance.
* Identify and support the professional development needs of staff, ensuring compliance with professional registration requirements.
Risk Management
* Identify, monitor and respond to high‑risk and high‑profile cases in accordance with safeguarding procedures.
* Support staff in managing risk and making informed decisions that protect children.
Communication & Partnership Working
* Communicate clearly and effectively with staff, colleagues, service users and multi‑agency partners.
* Foster strong working relationships with partner organisations to support effective safeguarding and service delivery.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
* Demonstrate commitment to equality, diversity and anti‑discriminatory practice.
* Ensure team members uphold the values and principles of inclusive, respectful service delivery.
Managing Resources
* Understand the basics of resource management, including staffing and financial considerations.
* Take accountability for ensuring that resources are used effectively and efficiently.
Managing Performance
* Model high‑quality, value‑driven practice that places the child at the centre.
* Ensure accurate, timely case recording in the Integrated Children’s System and compliance with data protection requirements.
* Use management information systems to analyse performance data and inform service improvements.
* Lead, motivate and support staff to achieve service objectives and performance targets.
* Manage delegated HR responsibilities including sickness, conduct, and performance management.
Strategic Contribution
* Understand the impact of national, regional and local policy on the service’s strategic direction.
* Work collaboratively with senior leaders and colleagues to develop and improve the service.
* Recruit, retain and support staff to ensure a skilled, motivated and effective workforce.
* Undertake additional duties as required to meet changing service needs.
Experience Required
* Significant post‑qualification experience in children’s social care.
* Experience supervising or managing social work staff.
* Experience of managing complex cases and safeguarding risks.
* Experience contributing to service improvement and implementing new approaches.
* Experience working in a multi‑agency safeguarding environment.
Skills & Competencies
* Strong leadership and team‑management skills.
* Excellent knowledge of children’s social care legislation and safeguarding procedures.
* Ability to analyse information, assess risk and make sound decisions.
* Clear, confident communicator with strong partnership‑working skills.
* Skilled in performance management and staff development.
* Ability to use case recording and management information systems effectively.
* High level of organisational, planning and problem‑solving skills.
Qualifications
* Qualified Social Worker (e.g. Degree in Social Work, CQSW, DipSW).
* Registered with the relevant professional body (e.g. Social Work England).
* Evidence of ongoing professional development.
* Management training (desirable).
Additional information to note
* We work on a Bi weekly payment schedule.
* The role closes on 27/04/2026, apply ASAP.
* Enhanced DBS check
Requirements
Provide strong leadership to ensure the delivery of safe, high‑quality services for children and families in line with legislation, statutory guidance, and local policies