Qualified Childrens Social Worker – London Temporary

Key Responsibilities:

Conduct comprehensive child and family assessments under the Children Act 1989 & 2004 to identify risks, needs, and strengths.
Develop and implement care plans that prioritize child safety, stability, and long-term well-being.
Undertake statutory visits and maintain up-to-date case records in line with regulatory requirements.
Initiate and manage Child Protection Plans (CPP), ensuring robust risk management and timely interventions.
Lead court proceedings, preparing and presenting high-quality reports, evidence, and recommendations in family courts.
Work collaboratively with police, health professionals, schools, and other agencies to ensure coordinated safeguarding efforts.
Provide direct support and intervention to children and families facing significant challenges, including domestic abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
Attend child protection conferences, strategy meetings, and legal planning meetings, advocating for the best outcomes for children.
Support foster placements and contribute to permanency planning for children in care.
Ensure all interventions comply with local and national statutory guidelines, including Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018).

Essential Criteria:

Social Work England (SWE) registration (or eligibility to register).
A degree in Social Work (BA/MA) or equivalent qualification.
Demonstrable experience in child protection, safeguarding, and court proceedings.
Strong knowledge of UK child protection legislation, policies, and frameworks.
Excellent assessment, analytical, and decision-making skills.
Experience in writing court reports and presenting evidence in legal settings.
Ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities effectively.
Strong multi-agency working skills with a commitment to inter-professional collaboration.
A valid UK driving license and access to a vehicle (where required).

Desirable Criteria:

Experience in complex care proceedings, pre-proceedings (PLO), and adoption cases.
Knowledge of systemic social work practice and trauma-informed approaches.
Additional training in signs of safety, motivational interviewing, or therapeutic interventions.

Caritas Recruitment is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy