This is an exciting opportunity to work at the front door of Children's Services, where you will play a crucial role in safeguarding children and promoting positive outcomes for families. Working within a dynamic multi-agency environment, you will be responsible for screening contacts and referrals, gathering and analysing information from partner agencies, and making timely, proportionate, and defensible decisions to ensure children receive the right support at the right time.
As a Senior Social Worker within MASH, you will work closely with colleagues from Police, Health, Education, Early Help, and other key partners to assess risk, identify safeguarding concerns, and contribute to effective decision-making regarding thresholds and service interventions. You will provide professional expertise and advice to agencies, promoting high-quality practice and ensuring that children's lived experiences remain at the centre of decision-making.
As a part of this role you will help embed a relationship-based, strengths-focused approach to practice, supporting clear risk analysis, balancing strengths and concerns, and contributing to effective safety planning. You will demonstrate professional curiosity, critical thinking, and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for children and families.
We are looking for an experienced and skilled social worker who can demonstrate:
* Significant experience in children's social care, with a strong safeguarding and child protection focus.
* Proven experience within a MASH, Front Door, Assessment, Duty, or Child Protection service.
* Strong knowledge and experience of screening referrals, information gathering, risk assessment, and threshold decision-making.
* The ability to analyse complex information and make timely, balanced, and defensible decisions in a fast-paced environment.
* A commitment to relationship-based and strengths-focused practice, recognising the importance of understanding children's lived experiences.
* Experience of working effectively within a multi-agency setting, building positive relationships with partners including Police, Health, Education, and Early Help services.
* Confidence in applying professional judgement and challenging appropriately to ensure the best outcomes for children.
* Sound knowledge of relevant legislation, statutory guidance, safeguarding procedures, and current developments in children's social care.
* Strong communication, assessment, and analytical skills, with the ability to produce clear and high-quality written records.
* A commitment to continuous professional development, reflective practice, and service improvement.
* The ability to manage competing demands effectively while maintaining high standards of practice.
This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled practitioner who is passionate about safeguarding children and enjoys working collaboratively within a fast-paced, multi-agency environment.