About the role
We are seeking an experienced, skilled, and motivated Social Worker to support children and families at risk of contextual safeguarding concerns. This vital role requires energy, expertise, and passion to achieve better outcomes for vulnerable young people every day.
Key risks
* Child criminal exploitation (CCE)
* Child sexual exploitation (CSE)
* Radicalisation
* Missing episodes
* Serious youth violence
* Family breakdown
Key aspects of the role
* Co‑producing plans with young people and empowering them to chair or co‑chair their own review meetings.
* Delivering intensive support to ‘hard to reach’ families through direct work.
* Implementing relational and restorative social work practice models.
* Promoting best practice and continuous improvement in line with policy, legislation, and professional standards.
Responsibilities
* Manage a complex social work caseload with high levels of autonomy.
* Provide expert professional and technical advice to colleagues, Social Workers, and partners.
* Support caseload management and promote reflective practice and professional development.
* Demonstrate skilled use of a range of assessment and intervention frameworks.
* Model and encourage professional social work practice and effective caseload management.
* Build strong networks with internal and external colleagues to support effective practice.
* Prepare court reports and provide expert testimony in care and private proceedings.
* Chair professional meetings with inter‑agency partners and clients.
* Contribute to team planning and the delivery of service objectives.
* Produce management information and analysis to inform decision‑making.
* Participate in panel processes and ensure practice complies with the Social Work Professional Capabilities Framework (Experienced Social Worker level).
About You
* A strong understanding of statutory frameworks for children in need of help and protection.
* Experience of working with complex needs, using creative and flexible approaches.
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build trust with children, families, and partners.
* The drive, motivation, and resilience to work with young people facing significant challenges.
Benefits
* Flexible Working Hours – We recognise the importance of flexibility in managing your work and personal life.
* 36‑Hour Week – Enjoy a standard 36‑hour workweek for all full‑time staff.
* Generous Holiday Entitlement – Increasing with length of service for non‑casual roles.
* Hillingdon Sports & Leisure – Discounted access to council‑owned leisure centres and swimming pools across the borough.
* Salary Sacrifice Schemes – Options for cycle purchase, electric vehicle leasing and voluntary pension contributions.
* Cycle‑to‑Work – Eco‑friendly commuting with our cycle purchase scheme; bicycle parking, lockers, and showers at the Civic Centre.
* Local Government Pension Scheme – Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme and membership to the Credit Union.
* Vivup Benefits – Access to a variety of offers and discounts through Vivup.
* Mental Health Support and Counselling Services – 24‑hour confidential advice and counselling, and legal advice for you and your immediate family.
* Travel Support – Seasonal ticket loans and free car parking.
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Statement
At the London Borough of Hillingdon, we are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. We welcome applicants from a wide variety of backgrounds and provide reasonable adjustments to applicants with disabilities. Join us in building a respectful workplace where everyone can give their best.
Recruitment Information
Hillingdon Council operates a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities meeting the essential criteria for the role. The position is subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service check, a Right‑to‑Work check, and pre‑employment screening, including an Enhanced DBS Check, Qualifications Check, Professional Registration Check, and a five‑year referencing period.
Priority
Priority will be given to those at risk of redundancy within Hillingdon Council. Employees part of the redeployment pool must meet the essential criteria for shortlisting to be prioritised. The role may close early due to high application volume, so apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Important note
We expect all staff and volunteers to share a commitment to safeguarding and protecting children, young people, and vulnerable groups. The post may close early; apply promptly to secure a place.
#J-18808-Ljbffr