Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council Social Worker – Court and PLO Team Pay Rate: £38 per hour Hours: 37 hours per week Contract: Locum About the Role Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join its Court and PLO Team. This role focuses on managing cases within care proceedings and pre-proceedings, requiring strong analytical skills, confident court work, and effective multi-agency collaboration. You will work closely with legal services, families, and partner agencies to ensure robust evidence-based decision-making and timely progression of cases through the court process. Key Responsibilities Manage cases within Public Law Outline (PLO) and care proceedings. Prepare high-quality statements, assessments, and care plans for court. Undertake direct work with children and families as part of court-directed planning. Work collaboratively with legal services, guardians, and partner agencies. Attend court hearings and professionals’ meetings as required. Maintain accurate and timely case recording in line with statutory guidance. Practice Model Used by BCP Council Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council operates a Strengths-Based, Relationship-Focused Practice Model, informed by Signs of Safety principles. This approach promotes clear analysis of risk and protective factors, collaborative working with families, and child-centred decision-making throughout court and pre-proceedings work. Why Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Is a Great Place to Live and Work BCP offers an outstanding quality of life alongside rewarding professional opportunities, including: Stunning award-winning beaches and coastal living. A vibrant lifestyle with cafés, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Excellent outdoor opportunities, from coastal walks to nearby countryside. Good transport links to Southampton, London, and the South West. A progressive local authority committed to high-quality practice and workforce wellbeing. Interested? If you would like to apply, please send your CV to If you would like to discuss the role further, feel free to call (phone number removed)