Cheshire East Council
Location: Hybrid – Base at Macclesfield Town Hall
Team: Children’s Social Care (Child in Need & Child Protection)
Role Purpose
Cheshire East Council is seeking an experienced and committed Social Worker to join our Children in Need (CIN) and Child Protection (CP) team. The role involves working with children, young people, and families to assess needs, reduce risk, and ensure the safety and wellbeing of vulnerable children across the borough.
You will hold a complex caseload of CIN and CP cases, working within statutory frameworks to deliver high-quality, relationship-based social work practice.
Key Responsibilities
- Undertake comprehensive assessments under Section 17 (Children in Need) and Section 47 (Child Protection) of the Children Act 1989
- Manage a caseload of CIN and CP cases, ensuring timely intervention and robust planning
- Develop and implement child protection plans and care plans in line with statutory guidance
- Work closely with families to identify strengths, reduce risks, and promote positive outcomes for children
- Attend and contribute to strategy meetings, child protection conferences, court proceedings, and multi-agency meetings
- Produce high-quality written reports, assessments, and court statements within required timescales
- Liaise effectively with partner agencies including health, education, police, and voluntary services
- Ensure all practice is compliant with safeguarding procedures, legislation, and local authority policies
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records on the electronic case management system
Requirements
- Qualified Social Worker with Social Work England registration
- Minimum of 2 years post-qualified experience in statutory children’s services (CIN/CP essential)
- Strong knowledge of relevant legislation, including Children Act 1989 & 2004, Working Together to Safeguard Children
- Experience of court work and care proceedings
- Ability to manage a complex caseload and prioritise effectively
- Excellent communication, report writing, and analytical skills
- Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children
Desirable Experience
- Experience working within a local authority CIN/CP team
- Court attendance and giving evidence in care proceedings
- Use of case management systems such as Liquidlogic or similar
- Experience working in a hybrid or agile working environment
Working Arrangements
- Hybrid working model (office-based attendance required at Macclesfield Town Hall and remote working)
- Attendance required for team meetings, supervision, and statutory meetings
- Flexible working supported in line with service needs