Senior Social Worker – Children’s Services

Department: Family Safeguarding Preston
Location: CSC, Ripon Street, Preston, PR1 7LY
Job Title: Senior Social Worker – Children’s Services

Job Purpose

To provide high-quality social work services to children, young people and their families within the Family Safeguarding Team in Preston. The Senior Social Worker will undertake complex assessments, develop effective safeguarding plans and work collaboratively with families and partner agencies to promote children’s safety, welfare and long-term outcomes.

The postholder will support children and families experiencing difficulties, ensuring that practice is child-centred, strengths-based and focused on achieving sustainable positive change.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a complex caseload of children and families requiring support and safeguarding intervention.
• Undertake comprehensive assessments of children’s needs, risks and family circumstances.
• Develop, implement and review child protection plans, child-in-need plans and other safeguarding interventions as appropriate.
• Ensure children’s voices, wishes and feelings are central to all assessments, decisions and care planning.
• Work in partnership with parents, carers, schools, health professionals, police and other relevant agencies.
• Apply relevant legislation, statutory guidance, local policies and safeguarding procedures.
• Identify and respond promptly to concerns relating to child abuse, neglect, exploitation and other forms of harm.
• Prepare high-quality reports for child protection conferences, core groups, reviews and court proceedings.
• Maintain accurate, timely and confidential case records in accordance with organisational requirements.
• Participate in supervision, case discussions, multi-agency meetings and professional development activities.
• Provide guidance and support to less experienced social workers and other team members where appropriate.
• Promote family-led solutions and strengths-based interventions that help families make lasting changes.
• Ensure all decisions and interventions are proportionate, evidence-based and focused on children’s best interests.

Essential Qualifications and Experience

• A recognised social work qualification, such as a BA or MA in Social Work, DipSW or equivalent.
• Registration with Social Work England.
• Substantial experience working with children and families within a statutory children’s social care setting.
• Knowledge of child protection procedures, safeguarding legislation and statutory social work practice.
• Experience undertaking assessments, managing risk and developing effective safeguarding plans.
• Ability to manage complex cases, prioritise competing demands and meet statutory deadlines.
• Experience working collaboratively with multi-agency professionals and family networks.
• Strong written communication, report-writing and verbal communication skills.

Essential Skills and Competencies

• Excellent assessment, analytical and decision-making skills.
• Strong understanding of safeguarding

CSW - Senior Social Worker / Advanced Practitioner - 0-25 Disabilities (Grade J) - Social Care Qualified

Job Purpose

To work within a Resilience Framework, providing a comprehensive, effective and integrated social work service to children and families, particularly in complex and high-risk situations. The post holder will ensure that services are delivered in a timely manner and in accordance with statutory legislation, safeguarding requirements, departmental policies and the council’s statutory obligations.

The post holder will demonstrate advanced social work practice, professional autonomy and leadership, supporting positive outcomes for children and families while promoting safeguarding, permanence and the opportunity for every child to reach their full potential.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a complex caseload of children and families, undertaking assessments, planning and interventions to safeguard children and promote their welfare.
• Assess, manage and respond to high levels of risk, ensuring appropriate safeguarding measures are implemented and reviewed.
• Develop, implement and evaluate child protection, care planning and permanence arrangements in line with statutory requirements.
• Demonstrate expert social work practice in complex situations, exercising sound professional judgement and making evidence-based decisions.
• Provide guidance, support, supervision and mentoring to less experienced social workers to promote high standards of practice.
• Take a lead role in a specialist area of practice, as directed by departmental policies and procedures.
• Deputise for the line manager when required or undertake delegated management responsibilities as authorised by the designated Head of Service.
• Work collaboratively with children, families, carers and multi-agency professionals to achieve positive outcomes.
• Ensure that children’s voices, wishes and feelings are heard and considered throughout assessment, planning and decision-making processes.
• Maintain accurate, timely and comprehensive case records, reports and assessments in accordance with council policies and statutory requirements.
• Promote strengths-based and resilience-focused practice, empowering families and supporting children to achieve their full potential.
• Identify and respond to emerging safeguarding concerns, escalating risks appropriately and ensuring that interventions are proportionate and effective.
• Contribute to service development, quality assurance and the continuous improvement of social work practice.

Essential Requirements

• Recognised social work qualification and registration with Social Work England.
• Substantial post-qualifying experience within a statutory Children’s Social Care setting.
• Extensive experience managing complex cases involving safeguarding, child protection and permanence planning.
• Demonstrable ability to assess and manage high levels of risk and make sound professional decisions.
• Strong knowledge of relevant legislation, statutory guidance, safeguarding procedures and local authority policies.
• Experience supporting, mentoring and developing less experienced social workers.
• Excellent communication, assessment, report-writing and multi-agency working skills.
• Ability to work autonomously, prioritise competing demands and manage a complex caseload effectively.
• Commitment to promoting children’s welfare, participation, equality and positive outcomes.

We are looking for an organised, adaptable and proactive Fair Access & Missing Education Caseworker to support children and young people who do not currently have a school place and help them access suitable education.

This is a fast-paced role that requires strong administrative skills, attention to detail and the ability to manage competing priorities while meeting deadlines.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide administrative and project support to the Fair Access and Missing Education team.

• Maintain accurate records and complete data entry tasks.

• Analyse data and prepare information to support effective decision-making.

• Help coordinate support plans and actions to reintegrate children and young people into education.

• Work with relevant stakeholders to support access to appropriate school placements.

• Monitor cases, follow up on actions and ensure deadlines are met.

• Adapt to changing priorities and support the smooth running of the service.

About You

The ideal candidate will have:

• Strong administrative and organisational skills.

• Good data entry, data analysis and IT skills.

• The ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage competing deadlines.

• A flexible, resilient and proactive approach to work.

• Good communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with others.

• GCSEs (or equivalent) in Maths and English at Grade 5 or above.

• Previous experience in administration, project support or school admissions is beneficial but not essential.

Working Arrangements

• Full-time position: 37 hours per week.

• Hybrid working, with just two days on-site per month.

This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys administrative and coordination work and wants to make a positive difference by helping children and young people access education.

If you are organised, adaptable and ready to take on a varied role in a busy team, we would love to hear from you.

Are you an experienced education law solicitor with a strong background in Special Educational Needs (SEN) and a passion for delivering high-quality legal advice?

We are seeking a knowledgeable and motivated Senior SEN Lawyer to provide expert legal advice and representation on complex education law matters, supporting the effective delivery of statutory duties relating to children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced legal professional to take a leading role in managing complex SEN matters, advising key stakeholders and supporting the organisation in meeting its statutory obligations.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide specialist legal advice on SEN and education law matters, including Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), statutory assessments, annual reviews and placement disputes.

• Advise on the legal framework governing SEND, including the Children and Families Act 2014, the SEND Code of Practice and relevant case law.

• Manage complex SEN cases, including appeals to the First-tier Tribunal (Special Educational Needs and Disability).

• Represent the organisation at SEND Tribunal hearings, mediations and other formal proceedings where required.

• Advise senior officers and service managers on legal risks, statutory compliance and appropriate courses of action.

• Draft and review legal documents, witness statements, submissions, advice notes and formal correspondence.

• Work collaboratively with education, SEND and children's services teams to support effective decision-making and reduce legal risk.

• Support the development of policies, procedures and practices to ensure compliance with relevant legislation and statutory guidance.

• Provide guidance and mentoring to junior legal colleagues and contribute to the wider development of the legal service.

• Keep up to date with changes in legislation, case law and best practice relating to SEN and education law.

About You

The successful candidate will have:

• Qualification as a solicitor, barrister or Chartered Legal Executive with relevant experience in education law.

• Substantial experience advising on SEN and SEND matters, ideally within a local authority or public sector legal environment.

• Strong knowledge of the Children and Families Act 2014, the SEND Code of Practice and the statutory framework governing EHCPs.

• Experience managing complex SEND Tribunal appeals and education law disputes.

• Excellent legal research, drafting, analytical and advocacy skills.

• The ability to provide clear, pragmatic and commercially aware legal advice to senior stakeholders.

• Strong communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to build effective working relationships across multidisciplinary teams.

• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage a varied caseload, prioritise competing deadlines and work effectively under pressure.

• A proactive approach to problem-solving, risk management and continuous professional development.

Why Apply?

This is an opportunity to use your specialist legal expertise to influence decision-making, support statutory compliance and contribute to improved outcomes for children and young people with SEND.

If you are an experienced SEN lawyer looking for a senior role where you can apply your technical expertise, manage complex legal matters and support the development of high-quality public services, we would welcome your application.

2 days remote and 3 days in the office

Are you an experienced SEND professional with strong leadership, performance management and quality assurance skills? We are seeking a dedicated Statutory Assessment Team Manager to lead a team responsible for ensuring statutory SEND assessments and processes are delivered within the timescales required by the Children and Families Act 2014.

This is an excellent opportunity for a confident leader who can drive service performance, maintain high standards of practice and ensure statutory compliance while supporting the continuous improvement of services for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the team: Provide effective line management to Senior Case Officers and Case Officers, setting clear performance expectations and supporting professional development through regular supervision and annual appraisals.

• Ensure statutory compliance: Oversee the delivery of statutory SEND functions, ensuring assessments and processes are completed within the required legal timescales.

• Drive performance and quality: Work collaboratively with the Performance and Finance Manager to develop and implement a robust performance management and quality assurance framework.

• Monitor service delivery: Analyse performance reports, identify areas for improvement and use data to inform team development, training and service improvement initiatives.

• Report on performance: Provide clear and accurate performance updates to the Head of SEND, highlighting progress, risks and areas requiring intervention.

• Manage budgets and resources: Oversee the team's staffing budget, identify and report financial pressures, and develop effective strategies to manage and mitigate budgetary risks.

• Promote continuous improvement: Foster a culture of accountability, high-quality practice and continuous improvement across the statutory assessment service.

About You

We are looking for a proactive and organised professional who can demonstrate:

• Experience of managing or leading a team within a SEND, education or children's services environment.

• A strong understanding of SEND legislation, particularly the Children and Families Act 2014 and statutory assessment processes.

• Experience of performance management, quality assurance and monitoring compliance against statutory requirements.

• The ability to analyse performance data, identify trends and implement improvement plans.

• Strong leadership, communication and staff development skills, including experience of supervision and performance management.

• Experience of budget monitoring, resource management and identifying financial risks.

• The ability to work collaboratively with senior stakeholders and contribute to strategic service development.

Why Apply?

This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to SEND service delivery, lead a dedicated team and help ensure children, young people and their families receive timely, high-quality support in line with statutory requirements.

If you are a motivated SEND leader with the skills to drive performance, strengthen quality assurance and deliver positive service outcomes, we would welcome your application.

Location: Remote Working
Hours: 35 hours per week
Contract: 7 days per week, as specified
Reporting to: Senior SEND Casework Officer

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and highly organised SEND Caseworker Assistant to provide essential support to SEND Casework Officers and Senior Casework Officers in the management and preparation of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).

This role will involve supporting the EHCP review and annual review processes, assisting with the preparation of EHCP documentation, and providing administrative and casework support for mediation meetings and tribunal proceedings.

The successful candidate will have a strong understanding of SEND processes, excellent attention to detail, and the ability to manage competing priorities while ensuring statutory deadlines are met.

Key Responsibilities

• Support SEND Casework Officers and Senior Casework Officers with the preparation, review and maintenance of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).

• Assist with the coordination and preparation of EHCP annual reviews and other review processes.

• Support the preparation of documentation and case records for mediation meetings and SEND tribunal proceedings.

• Maintain accurate, up-to-date case management records and ensure all relevant documentation is appropriately recorded.

• Monitor casework activity and support compliance with statutory timescales and deadlines.

• Establish and maintain effective professional relationships with schools, parents and carers, educational settings, partner agencies and other stakeholders.

• Communicate professionally and effectively with all parties, ensuring information is shared accurately and in a timely manner.

• Provide administrative and casework support to ensure the smooth and efficient delivery of SEND services.

• Work collaboratively with the wider SEND team to support positive outcomes for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Previous experience in SEND casework or a similar role within a local authority SEND service.

• A good understanding of EHCP processes, annual reviews and relevant statutory requirements.

• Experience preparing and maintaining accurate casework documentation.

• Knowledge of SEND mediation and tribunal processes, or experience supporting the preparation of relevant documentation.

• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple cases and deadlines.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• The ability to build and maintain positive professional relationships with parents, carers, schools and partner agencies.

• A high level of accuracy, attention to detail and commitment to confidentiality.

• The ability to work independently and effectively in a remote-working environment.

What We Offer

• Fully remote working.

• The opportunity to support the delivery of effective SEND services.

• A collaborative working relationship with SEND Casework Officers and Senior Casework Officers.

How to Apply

If you have relevant SEND casework experience and are confident supporting EHCP reviews, statutory processes and tribunal preparation, we would welcome your application.

Please submit your CV outlining your relevant experience and suitability for the role.

Fully Remote | Contract 

We Do Social Work is delighted to be recruiting for experienced SEND EHCP Officers on behalf of one of our clients.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a well-established SEND service in a fully remote role, where you'll play a key part in improving outcomes for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

If you have experience managing Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), are passionate about person-centred practice, and enjoy working collaboratively with families and professionals, we'd love to hear from you.

The Role

As a SEND EHCP Officer, you'll manage your own allocated caseload, overseeing the full EHCP process from assessment through to annual reviews and amendments.

Working remotely, you'll collaborate with schools, families and multi-agency professionals to ensure every Education, Health and Care Plan is high quality, legally compliant and focused on achieving the best possible outcomes for children and young people.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage an allocated caseload of EHCPs from assessment through to review.
• Produce clear, high-quality Education, Health and Care Plans.
• Analyse professional advice and multi-agency assessments to identify appropriate provision.
• Work closely with children, young people and their families to ensure their views and aspirations are central to every plan.
• Attend review meetings where required and build positive relationships with educational settings and professionals.
• Ensure statutory timescales are consistently achieved.
• Maintain accurate case records and provide high-quality reports to support decision making.
• Work collaboratively with education, health and care professionals to deliver the best possible outcomes.

About You

We're looking for candidates who have:

• Experience working within SEND and the EHCP process.
• Knowledge of current SEND legislation and statutory guidance.
• Experience working with children, young people, families and multi-agency partners.
• Excellent written skills with the ability to produce professional, person-centred EHCPs and reports.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage a varied caseload.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Confidence using digital case management systems.

A relevant qualification or equivalent experience, along with GCSE English and Maths (or equivalent), is essential.

What's on Offer

• Fully remote working
• Supportive and collaborative team environment
• The opportunity to make a real difference to children and young people with SEND
• Ongoing professional development and training
• A rewarding role with meaningful impact

Apply Today

If you're an experienced SEND EHCP Officer looking for your next opportunity in a fully remote role, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today through We Do Social Work and one of our specialist consultants will be in touch to discuss the role in more detail.

Fully Remote | Contract 

We Do Social Work is delighted to be recruiting for experienced SEND EHCP Officers on behalf of one of our clients.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a well-established SEND service in a fully remote role, where you'll play a key part in improving outcomes for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

If you have experience managing Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), are passionate about person-centred practice, and enjoy working collaboratively with families and professionals, we'd love to hear from you.

The Role

As a SEND EHCP Officer, you'll manage your own allocated caseload, overseeing the full EHCP process from assessment through to annual reviews and amendments.

Working remotely, you'll collaborate with schools, families and multi-agency professionals to ensure every Education, Health and Care Plan is high quality, legally compliant and focused on achieving the best possible outcomes for children and young people.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage an allocated caseload of EHCPs from assessment through to review.
• Produce clear, high-quality Education, Health and Care Plans.
• Analyse professional advice and multi-agency assessments to identify appropriate provision.
• Work closely with children, young people and their families to ensure their views and aspirations are central to every plan.
• Attend review meetings where required and build positive relationships with educational settings and professionals.
• Ensure statutory timescales are consistently achieved.
• Maintain accurate case records and provide high-quality reports to support decision making.
• Work collaboratively with education, health and care professionals to deliver the best possible outcomes.

About You

We're looking for candidates who have:

• Experience working within SEND and the EHCP process.
• Knowledge of current SEND legislation and statutory guidance.
• Experience working with children, young people, families and multi-agency partners.
• Excellent written skills with the ability to produce professional, person-centred EHCPs and reports.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage a varied caseload.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Confidence using digital case management systems.

A relevant qualification or equivalent experience, along with GCSE English and Maths (or equivalent), is essential.

What's on Offer

• Fully remote working
• Supportive and collaborative team environment
• The opportunity to make a real difference to children and young people with SEND
• Ongoing professional development and training
• A rewarding role with meaningful impact

Apply Today

If you're an experienced SEND EHCP Officer looking for your next opportunity in a fully remote role, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today through We Do Social Work and one of our specialist consultants will be in touch to discuss the role in more detail.

Contract: Interim, 3–6 months
Working Arrangement: Hybrid, with a minimum of two days per week in the office

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced SEND Improvement Consultant / SEF Programme Lead to support the development and completion of a comprehensive Self-Evaluation Framework (SEF) in preparation for inspection.

The successful candidate will bring extensive experience of SEND improvement, inspection readiness and self-evaluation within education and local area SEND services. They will lead and coordinate the development of the SEF, ensuring it provides an accurate, evidence-based assessment of current performance, identifies areas of strength and highlights areas requiring further improvement.

Working collaboratively with senior leaders, service managers and key stakeholders, the postholder will support wider inspection preparation, ensuring that evidence is robust, improvement activity is clearly articulated and there is a shared understanding of progress against identified priorities.

This is a time-limited interim assignment of 3–6 months, requiring a proactive and experienced professional who can quickly establish credibility, work independently and deliver high-quality outputs within agreed timescales.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development, coordination and writing of the Self-Evaluation Framework (SEF) in preparation for inspection.

• Undertake a comprehensive review of existing SEND performance information, evidence, service evaluations and improvement plans.

• Work with senior leaders and relevant stakeholders to gather, analyse and validate evidence relating to SEND provision and outcomes.

• Identify key strengths, areas of concern, gaps in evidence and opportunities for improvement across SEND services.

• Ensure the SEF provides a clear, balanced and evidence-based assessment of current performance, impact and progress.

• Support the alignment of the SEF with relevant inspection frameworks, statutory expectations and national SEND guidance.

• Develop clear narratives demonstrating the impact of improvement activity on children and young people with SEND and their families.

• Challenge existing assumptions and evidence constructively, ensuring that self-evaluation is robust, transparent and supported by measurable outcomes.

• Support the development and refinement of improvement priorities, action plans and supporting evidence ahead of inspection.

• Contribute to wider inspection readiness, including evidence preparation, document review and coordination of inspection-related activity.

• Work closely with senior leadership teams, operational managers and multi-agency partners to promote consistency and ownership of the self-evaluation process.

• Provide expert advice and recommendations to strengthen SEND improvement arrangements and inspection preparedness.

• Monitor progress against agreed milestones, ensuring deliverables are completed to a high standard within the interim assignment.

• Produce clear, concise and professionally written reports, briefings and supporting documentation for senior stakeholders.

Essential Experience and Knowledge

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Significant experience working within SEND improvement, statutory SEND services or local area SEND partnerships.

• Proven experience of leading, coordinating or contributing significantly to the development of a SEND Self-Evaluation Framework.

• Strong knowledge of SEND inspection frameworks, inspection preparation and self-evaluation requirements.

• A detailed understanding of SEND legislation, statutory guidance and the responsibilities of education, health and social care partners.

• Experience of reviewing SEND performance, analysing evidence and evaluating the impact of improvement activity.

• A proven track record of supporting services to prepare for inspection and demonstrate progress against improvement priorities.

• Experience of working with senior leaders and multi-agency stakeholders to secure engagement, challenge and ownership.

• The ability to identify evidence gaps, assess service effectiveness and translate findings into clear improvement recommendations.

• Excellent report-writing skills, with the ability to produce high-quality, evidence-based documentation for senior audiences.

• Experience of delivering complex improvement assignments within tight deadlines.

Key Skills and Competencies

• Strategic leadership: Ability to lead a complex self-evaluation and inspection preparation programme.

• Analytical thinking: Ability to interpret performance data, scrutinise evidence and identify trends, risks and improvement opportunities.

• Written communication: Exceptional drafting, editing and report-writing skills.

• Stakeholder engagement: Ability to build effective relationships and secure contributions from senior leaders and multi-agency partners.

• Constructive challenge: Confidence to question existing practice, identify weaknesses and recommend practical improvements.

• Programme management: Strong planning, prioritisation and delivery skills, with a focus on milestones and outcomes.

• Attention to detail: Ability to ensure consistency, accuracy and a clear evidence trail throughout the SEF.

• Autonomy and flexibility: Ability to work independently, quickly understand organisational priorities and deliver results within a short-term assignment.

Deliverables and Expected Outcomes

During the assignment, the postholder will be expected to:

• Produce a comprehensive, high-quality SEND Self-Evaluation Framework ready to support inspection preparation.

• Establish a clear and evidence-based narrative of current performance, strengths and areas for development.

• Identify evidence gaps and support the collation and validation of relevant documentation.

• Strengthen the alignment between self-evaluation findings, improvement priorities and measurable outcomes.

• Support wider inspection readiness through effective coordination, stakeholder engagement and documentation.

• Provide clear recommendations to support continued SEND improvement beyond the interim assignment.

Working Arrangements

This is a hybrid interim role, requiring a minimum of two days per week in the office, with flexibility to undertake other duties remotely as appropriate.

The assignment is expected to last between 3 and 6 months, depending on organisational requirements and programme progress. The successful candidate must be able to commence work promptly, operate with minimal supervision and deliver agreed outputs within the required timescales.

Candidate Profile

We are looking for a credible and delivery-focused SEND improvement professional with a strong track record in self-evaluation, inspection readiness and strategic improvement.

The ideal candidate will combine detailed knowledge of SEND statutory services with exceptional writing and analytical skills, enabling them to produce a robust SEF that accurately reflects current performance, demonstrates improvement and clearly identifies priorities for further development.

This role would suit an experienced interim consultant who can quickly establish effective working relationships, provide constructive challenge and make a tangible contribution to inspection preparedness within a 3–6-month assignment.

Teams: Primary, Secondary and Post-16
Contract: Permanent and Agency Opportunities

Job Purpose

We are seeking highly experienced and motivated Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Casework Officers to join our Statutory Assessment Teams across Primary, Secondary and Post-16 provision.

The successful candidates will have a minimum of two years’ experience working within a SEND Statutory Assessment Team, with extensive knowledge of SEND legislation, statutory assessment processes and Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).

You will be responsible for managing a substantial caseload of approximately 220 cases, ensuring statutory deadlines are met and that children and young people with SEND receive appropriate support in line with legislative requirements. You will work collaboratively with parents and carers, schools, educational settings and other professionals to ensure effective communication, robust case management and positive outcomes for children and young people.

We are also seeking officers with experience of overseeing Children Looked After (CLA) EHCP cases.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of approximately 220 children and young people with SEND, ensuring cases are progressed efficiently and in accordance with statutory requirements.

• Oversee the Education, Health and Care Needs Assessment process, ensuring compliance with the statutory 20-week assessment timeline.

• Coordinate and manage the EHCP Annual Review process, ensuring reviews are completed within required timescales and appropriate actions are taken following review meetings.

• Maintain accurate, up-to-date and comprehensive case records, ensuring all relevant documentation and correspondence are recorded on the designated case management system.

• Work collaboratively with parents and carers, schools, educational settings, health professionals, social care teams and other relevant stakeholders.

• Provide clear, timely and professional communication to families and professionals regarding assessments, EHCPs, annual reviews and case progression.

• Ensure all casework is undertaken in accordance with SEND legislation, statutory guidance, policies and procedures.

• Monitor case progress and prioritise workload effectively to meet statutory deadlines and service performance targets.

• Manage and oversee CLA EHCP cases where required, working closely with relevant professionals to ensure the educational needs of children looked after are appropriately addressed.

• Participate in regular supervision with a Senior SEND Officer, using feedback and guidance to support effective case management and continuous improvement.

• Review weekly performance data, taking responsibility for maintaining productivity, addressing outstanding actions and meeting agreed service expectations.

• Attend regular team meetings and contribute to a collaborative team environment, including face-to-face meetings with schools, parents and carers as required.

• Support colleagues through knowledge sharing, mentoring and buddying arrangements, particularly where experienced agency staff are required to support the development of newer team members.

Essential Experience and Knowledge

Candidates must demonstrate:

• A minimum of two years’ experience working within a SEND Statutory Assessment Team.

• Extensive working knowledge of SEND legislation, statutory guidance and relevant assessment procedures.

• Practical experience of managing the statutory 20-week Education, Health and Care Needs Assessment process.

• Proven experience of coordinating and overseeing EHCP Annual Reviews.

• Experience of managing a high-volume caseload and prioritising competing demands effectively.

• Experience of working directly with parents and carers, schools and a range of multidisciplinary professionals.

• Experience of maintaining accurate case records and ensuring statutory deadlines and performance targets are achieved.

• The ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a wider team.

• Experience of overseeing CLA EHCP cases is highly desirable.

Skills and Competencies

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage a substantial caseload.

• A sound understanding of statutory timescales, compliance requirements and casework procedures.

• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive working relationships with families and professionals.

• A proactive and solutions-focused approach to case management.

• The ability to work effectively under pressure and respond to changing priorities.

• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining accurate and comprehensive records.

• A collaborative approach, with a willingness to share knowledge and support colleagues.

• A commitment to achieving positive outcomes for children and young people with SEND.

Systems Experience

Experience of using Synergy as a SEND case management and recording system would be an advantage. Candidates should be confident using electronic case management systems to record information, monitor case progression and maintain accurate records.

Working Arrangements and Expectations

This role operates within a collaborative, whole-team working model. Officers are expected to attend the office for a minimum of two days per week and undertake face-to-face contact with schools, parents and carers as required.

Regular supervision will be provided by a Senior SEND Officer, and weekly performance data will be shared to monitor caseload management, statutory compliance and overall performance.

Induction and training will be provided to all permanent and agency staff. However, agency candidates are expected to bring substantial SEND statutory assessment experience, demonstrate the ability to manage a demanding caseload and contribute positively from the outset. Experienced agency officers may also be expected to buddy up with colleagues who are developing their knowledge and experience of SEND casework.

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for experienced SEND Casework Officers who can demonstrate strong statutory knowledge, effective caseload management and a commitment to delivering a responsive, child-centred service.

If you have the required statutory assessment experience, can work confidently within a high-volume casework environment and are committed to working collaboratively with families, schools and professionals, we welcome your interest in joining our Primary, Secondary or Post-16 SEND teams.

Leaving Care Worker

Job Purpose

We are seeking a dedicated and proactive Leaving Care Worker to support young people aged 16–25 as they transition from care into independent adulthood.

The successful candidate will act as a key point of contact, providing reliable, flexible and coordinated support to care leavers. They will work directly with young people, their families, peer networks and partner agencies to ensure individual plans are delivered effectively and that young people have access to the resources and opportunities they need to achieve positive outcomes.

The role focuses on helping young people develop independence, maintain stable accommodation, access education, training and employment, and achieve positive physical, emotional and social wellbeing.

Key Responsibilities

• Build positive, trusting relationships with young people leaving care, providing consistent and flexible support tailored to their individual needs.

• Coordinate and implement individual plans, bringing together support from relevant agencies and services.

• Support young people aged 16–25 to develop independent living skills and successfully transition into adulthood.

• Help young people access and maintain suitable accommodation, education, training and employment opportunities.

• Work collaboratively with families, peers, social care, adult services and other partner agencies to improve outcomes.

• Advocate for young people and challenge agencies or wider support networks where necessary to secure appropriate services and lasting change.

• Engage with young people who are reluctant to access support or are considered harder to reach, building relationships and identifying opportunities to improve their life chances.

• Deliver targeted interventions to young people experiencing increased levels of risk, including concerns around antisocial behaviour, employment, accommodation or mental health.

• Provide information, advice and guidance to help young people make informed decisions and develop the skills needed for independent living.

• Recognise safeguarding concerns and work with relevant agencies to ensure young people receive appropriate support.

• Participate in the team duty service, responding to young people experiencing crisis and ensuring their immediate needs are assessed and addressed.

• Work in line with the Council’s Children in Care and Care Leavers Strategy, promoting safe, healthy and positive outcomes.

Skills and Experience

The ideal candidate will have:

• Experience working with young people, particularly care leavers or vulnerable young people aged 16–25.

• The ability to build and maintain positive relationships with young people who may be reluctant to engage with services.

• Experience coordinating support and working collaboratively with multiple agencies.

• Knowledge of the challenges young people face when transitioning from care to independent adulthood.

• An understanding of accommodation, education, training, employment and wellbeing needs.

• The ability to identify risks, respond to challenging situations and provide appropriate support.

• Strong communication, advocacy, organisation and problem-solving skills.

• The ability to deliver targeted, person-centred interventions and support young people to achieve their individual goals.

• An understanding of the services available across both children’s and adult services.

• The ability to work effectively as part of a team, including contributing to a duty service and responding to crisis situations.

Key Attributes

• Empathetic, patient and committed to improving outcomes for care leavers.

• Proactive and flexible in responding to changing needs.

• Confident in engaging hard-to-reach young people.

• Resilient and able to manage challenging situations professionally.

• Collaborative, with the ability to build effective relationships with young people, families and partner agencies.

• Focused on promoting independence, safety, stability and positive life outcomes.

Social Worker – Children and Young People's Disability Service (CYPDS) 0–25

Employer: London Borough of Camden
Team: Children and Young People's Disability Service (CYPDS)
Location: 5 Pancras Square, Camden
Working Pattern: Agile working – office, home and community visits
Service Area: Children's Social Care / Disability and Transition to Adulthood

About the Role

Camden Council is seeking an experienced and motivated Social Worker to join its Children and Young People's Disability Service (CYPDS), supporting disabled children, young people and their families from birth through to the transition into adulthood.

This is an opportunity to manage a varied and complex caseload, undertaking statutory assessments, safeguarding interventions and care planning while working collaboratively with families and professionals across health, education, housing and voluntary services.

The successful candidate will be committed to person-centred, strengths-based practice, ensuring children and young people's wishes, feelings and lived experiences remain central to all decision-making.

The service covers a broad range of statutory social work responsibilities, including Child in Need, Child Protection, children looked after, Short Breaks, Public Law Outline (PLO), court proceedings and Preparation for Adulthood.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a complex caseload of disabled children and young people, undertaking assessments, planning, interventions and reviews.

• Complete timely and analytical assessments of need, risk and protective factors.

• Develop, implement and review support plans in partnership with children, young people, parents and carers.

• Undertake statutory social work duties relating to Child in Need, Child Protection, children looked after, PLO and court proceedings as required.

• Promote the safeguarding, welfare and best interests of children and young people.

• Carry out direct work with children and young people, adapting communication methods to meet individual needs and abilities.

• Work sensitively with parents and carers, including in situations involving disagreement, conflict or safeguarding concerns.

• Collaborate with health, education, housing and other partner agencies to coordinate services and improve outcomes.

• Support disabled young people with transition planning and Preparation for Adulthood.

• Undertake Care Act assessments and relevant adult social care responsibilities where appropriate.

• Participate in professional meetings, reviews, conferences, panels and multi-agency planning discussions.

• Identify and make appropriate use of statutory services, commissioned provision, community resources and voluntary sector support.

• Maintain accurate, comprehensive and timely case records in accordance with legislation and departmental procedures.

• Meet statutory deadlines and departmental performance requirements.

• Contribute to reflective practice, team learning and continuous service improvement.

• Promote equality, inclusion, co-production and anti-discriminatory practice throughout service delivery.

Essential Skills and Experience

Candidates must demonstrate:

• A recognised social work qualification.

• Current registration with Social Work England.

• Post-qualifying experience in statutory social work.

• Strong knowledge of children's social care legislation, safeguarding frameworks and statutory guidance.

• Experience undertaking statutory assessments and analysing complex family circumstances.

• Experience developing, implementing and reviewing plans for children and families.

• Experience of Child in Need and safeguarding work.

• Strong assessment, analytical and professional decision-making skills.

• The ability to communicate effectively with children and young people with different communication needs.

• Experience working collaboratively with multi-agency professionals and partner organisations.

• The ability to manage complex cases, prioritise workloads and meet statutory timescales.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including report writing.

• Confidence in managing challenging situations, professional disagreements and safeguarding risks.

• A commitment to child-centred, strengths-based and outcome-focused practice.

Fostering Social Worker

Location: Chelmunds Place, Solihull
Team: Fostering Recruitment and Assessment Team
Working Pattern: Monday to Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Working Arrangement: Hybrid – minimum of two days per week in the office, including team meetings
Parking: Available on site

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Fostering Social Worker to join the Fostering Recruitment and Assessment Team in Solihull.

The successful candidate will play a key role in the recruitment, assessment and support of foster carers, helping to ensure that children and young people who cannot live with their birth families are placed in safe, stable and nurturing homes.

You will undertake comprehensive foster carer assessments, including Form F assessments, and work collaboratively with colleagues, prospective foster carers and partner agencies to ensure high standards of safeguarding and care.

This is an excellent opportunity for a social worker with fostering experience who is passionate about improving outcomes for children and supporting foster families.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake comprehensive Form F assessments of prospective foster carers.

• Assess applicants' suitability to foster, considering their background, circumstances, skills, motivation and capacity to meet children's needs.

• Conduct interviews, home visits and statutory checks as part of the fostering assessment process.

• Prepare detailed assessment reports and recommendations for fostering panel consideration.

• Support the recruitment and assessment of prospective foster carers throughout the assessment process.

• Ensure all assessments and records comply with relevant legislation, regulations, policies and procedures.

• Work collaboratively with fostering colleagues, children's social workers and other professionals to promote positive outcomes for children.

• Identify and address safeguarding concerns, ensuring children's welfare remains the priority.

• Maintain accurate, up-to-date case records and assessment documentation.

• Contribute to team meetings, service development and continuous improvement.

• Provide advice and guidance to prospective foster carers throughout the recruitment and assessment journey.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Qualified Social Worker with relevant professional registration.

• Previous experience working within a fostering service.

• Demonstrable experience completing Form F fostering assessments.

• Knowledge of fostering legislation, regulations and assessment procedures.

• Understanding of safeguarding and child protection.

• Strong assessment, analytical and report-writing skills.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to manage a caseload, prioritise workload and meet deadlines.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.

• A commitment to promoting the welfare, safety and best interests of children and young people.

Working Arrangements

The role operates on a hybrid basis, with the successful candidate required to attend the office at Chelmunds Place, Solihull, at least two days per week and for team meetings. The remaining working days may be completed from home, subject to service requirements.

Working hours are Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, totalling 37 hours per week. On-site parking is available.

Employer: Cheshire East Council
Service Area: Children's Services and Family Support
Location: Various locations across the Borough of Cheshire East

About the Role

Cheshire East Council is seeking a committed and proactive Family Service Worker to support children, young people and families through early intervention and preventative services.

The successful candidate will work in partnership with families, Children's Services and other agencies to deliver evidence-based programmes designed to address emerging difficulties, strengthen family relationships and improve outcomes for children aged 0–19.

You will undertake holistic family assessments, develop tailored support plans and deliver appropriate interventions to help families overcome challenges at an early stage. The role focuses on empowering families, promoting children's welfare and ensuring vulnerable children and young people receive timely and effective support.

Key Responsibilities

• Work collaboratively with Children's Services and partner agencies to coordinate and deliver targeted family support programmes.

• Provide timely interventions to children, young people and families aged 0–19, delivering support at locations and times that meet their needs.

• Deliver evidence-based programmes and interventions that promote positive family relationships and improve outcomes.

• Undertake holistic assessments of family circumstances using appropriate assessment tools.

• Develop, implement, monitor and review individual family support plans.

• Identify children and families experiencing difficulties and provide early help to prevent concerns from escalating.

• Prioritise vulnerable children and young people, including families who may be harder to reach.

• Empower families to identify their needs, participate in decision-making and develop sustainable solutions.

• Seek feedback from children, young people and families to ensure services respond effectively to their needs.

• Collect and maintain accurate data to support service monitoring, performance management and evaluation.

• Maintain comprehensive case records and prepare reports as required.

• Work in accordance with statutory requirements, departmental policies, safeguarding procedures and equality and diversity standards.

• Recognise safeguarding concerns and promptly escalate issues to the appropriate manager or professional.

• Participate in supervision, training and professional development to maintain and improve practice.

• Undertake other duties consistent with the responsibilities of the role, as required by the Council.

Essential Skills and Experience

Candidates should demonstrate:

• Experience supporting children, young people and families in a family support, early help, community or children's services setting.

• An understanding of early intervention and preventative approaches to family support.

• Experience assessing family needs and contributing to or developing individual support plans.

• Knowledge of safeguarding and child protection principles.

• The ability to identify emerging concerns and escalate risks appropriately.

• Strong communication and relationship-building skills, including the ability to engage families experiencing complex challenges.

• Experience working collaboratively with multi-agency professionals and partner organisations.

• Good organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities.

• The ability to maintain accurate case records, collect data and prepare reports.

• A commitment to empowering families, promoting children's welfare and achieving positive outcomes.

• An understanding of equality, diversity, confidentiality and professional boundaries.

• A willingness to undertake relevant training and participate in regular supervision.

Key Competencies

Family-centred practice: Build positive relationships with families and provide practical, personalised support.

Assessment and intervention: Identify family needs, plan appropriate interventions and monitor progress.

Safeguarding: Recognise concerns, understand risk and follow the correct escalation procedures.

Partnership working: Collaborate effectively with social workers, education, health professionals and other agencies.

Empowerment: Encourage families to participate in decisions and develop the skills and confidence to manage challenges.

Recording and reporting: Maintain accurate, confidential records and contribute to service evaluation.

Job Description: Contact Support Worker – Children's Services

Client: Nottinghamshire County Council
Service Area: Contact Support Service
Driving Requirements: Full UK driving licence and access to a suitable vehicle
Experience Required: Minimum of one year's experience working with children and/or young people
Qualification: QCF Level 3 (previously NVQ Level 3) in Social Care, Child Care or an equivalent qualification. Applicants working towards the qualification may be considered.

About the Role

Nottinghamshire County Council is seeking a caring, reliable and motivated Contact Support Worker to join its Contact Support Service.

The successful candidate will facilitate supervised contact sessions between children and young people aged 0–17 and their parents, family members or carers. The role is essential in helping children maintain family relationships while ensuring their safety, welfare and emotional needs remain the priority.

You will be responsible for arranging and supervising contact sessions, transporting and escorting children between locations, maintaining accurate records and reporting any safeguarding concerns promptly.

This role requires a flexible and professional individual who can build positive relationships with children, families and professionals while maintaining appropriate boundaries and following agreed contact arrangements.

Key Responsibilities

• Arrange, coordinate and make changes to contact sessions efficiently in response to service requirements.

• Organise transport and contact arrangements, liaising with parents, carers, social workers and other professionals.

• Collect and escort children and young people to and from foster placements, schools, children's centres, nurseries, crèches and other designated venues.

• Supervise contact sessions between children, young people and their parents or family members, ensuring the child's welfare remains the priority.

• Maintain appropriate professional boundaries and ensure compliance with agreed contact arrangements and contact agreements.

• Observe and identify interactions, behaviours and significant events during contact sessions.

• Recognise, record and promptly report safeguarding concerns or breaches of contact agreements to the appropriate manager.

• Complete accurate and timely contact notes and reports in line with council policies and procedures.

• Attend and contribute to professional meetings concerning children and young people where required.

• Provide appropriate guidance, advice and support to parents and carers to promote positive interactions.

• Maintain a safe, clean and welcoming environment, including cleaning play equipment and maintaining resources.

• Work collaboratively with colleagues and partner agencies to support positive outcomes for children and families.

• Attend court when required to provide factual evidence as part of care proceedings.

Essential Skills and Experience

Candidates should demonstrate:

• At least one year's experience working with children and/or young people.

• A sound understanding of safeguarding and child protection procedures.

• Knowledge of child development, attachment and the emotional needs of children.

• An understanding of positive parenting, family relationships and appropriate behaviour management strategies.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage sensitively with children, parents and carers.

• Strong observation skills and the ability to identify and report concerns appropriately.

• Good written communication skills, including the ability to maintain accurate records and prepare reports.

• Strong organisational skills and the ability to prioritise competing tasks.

• The ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a team.

• A calm, patient, caring and non-judgmental approach.

• A commitment to confidentiality, equality, diversity and safeguarding.

• Willingness to undertake relevant training and professional development.

Education and Qualifications

• GCSE English and Maths at grade C or above, or equivalent.

• QCF Level 3 qualification in Social Care or Child Care, or an equivalent qualification. Candidates working towards this qualification may be considered.

• A willingness to complete training relevant to the role.

Personal Attributes

The ideal candidate will be:

• Compassionate, patient and child-focused.

• Professional, dependable and well organised.

• Confident in managing sensitive family situations.

• Able to maintain professional boundaries and remain impartial.

• Committed to protecting children and promoting their safety and well-being.

• Respectful of different backgrounds, cultures and family circumstances.

Trafford Council are recruiting social worker to join their integrated community service within the Central Neighbourhood Team based at Sale Waterside.

The team works with Adults in a range of situations with varying disabilities including long term conditions, adults at risk drug abuse, Hoarding, dementia and alcohol issues.
We are looking for skilled, experienced and motivational social workers to work within a busy and challenging role.

A significant part of your role will be to provide social work assessment and interventions utilising a strength based and person centred approach, if necessary secure appropriate levels of funding where necessary in line with the Reshaping Trafford Policy. You will have at least 3 years post qualifying experience.

In addition you will be required to provide an effective response to safeguarding enquiries in line with both the Care Act and local policy and procedures.

In return we offer flexible working arrangements and provide regular support through professional supervision.
 

About you

Motivated for challenging existing ways of working
Understand the importance of continually improving the service
Enthusiastic to engage in adopting outcomes focused and strengths based assessments.
Committed to peer support and learning, making the most of the diverse range of experiences all team members bring
Committed to safeguarding the vulnerable adult population
Experience working in a statutory Adult Social Care service
A qualified experienced level 3 Social Worker

About the Role

A significant part of the role will be to engage in informative and preventative conversations which will include outcomes focused and strengths based social work assessments and related interventions.
You will be required to manage a caseload of work organising your working hours to make best use of your time ensuring this work is balanced with the responsibilities and work demands of the team
You will build effective professional relationships with other disciplines and with other local health and social care services to enable a coordinated response to the local population.

You will share responsibility with other colleagues for the work load of the team, supporting each other to make best use of each other’s strengths, skills and knowledge in response to the adult social care demands from the local population.

There will be a requirement for all team members to contribute to a duty rota responding to urgent demands for support for individuals in a state of crisis.

In addition you will need to demonstrate a commitment to providing an effective response to safeguarding the vulnerable adult population within the local area and oversee enquiries in line with both the Care Act and local policy and procedures.

3 years reference, gaps in employment history checked, any relevant quals as per JDPS

Personal Advisor – Leaving Care Service

Client: Peterborough City Council
Location: Sand Martin House / Chauffeurs Cottage, Peterborough
Hours: 37 hours per week
Working Pattern: Hybrid working
Service Area: Children and Young People – Leaving Care

About the Role

Peterborough City Council is seeking an experienced and committed Personal Advisor to join its Leaving Care Service. You will support young people transitioning from care into adulthood, helping them develop the skills, confidence and independence needed to achieve positive outcomes.

You will manage a caseload of care leavers, providing tailored advice, practical assistance and ongoing support in areas such as accommodation, education, employment, finances, health and general well-being. You will work collaboratively with colleagues, families, carers and partner agencies to ensure young people receive the right support at the right time.

The successful candidate will place young people at the centre of their practice, promoting their rights, choices, independence and long-term success.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of care leavers in accordance with relevant legislation, departmental policies and procedures.

• Develop, review and maintain Pathway Plans to support young people as they transition into adulthood.

• Assess individual needs and deliver appropriate support, guidance and intervention.

• Support young people to secure and maintain suitable accommodation and develop independent living skills.

• Assist care leavers with budgeting, financial planning, benefits and managing living expenses.

• Promote access to education, training, employment, health services and other opportunities.

• Undertake home visits and visits to other appropriate settings to monitor progress and provide support.

• Work in partnership with Children's Social Care, education, health services, housing providers and other relevant agencies.

• Attend and contribute to reviews, case conferences, planning meetings and other professional forums.

• Maintain accurate, up-to-date and confidential case records using manual and electronic recording systems.

• Identify and respond to safeguarding concerns, escalating issues promptly in line with local procedures.

• Promote equality, diversity, inclusion and social justice in all aspects of service delivery.

• Participate in supervision, appraisals, training and ongoing professional development.

• Work flexibly to meet the needs of young people, including lone working and occasional unsocial hours where required.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Experience working with care leavers, looked-after children or vulnerable young people.

• Knowledge of the challenges faced by young people transitioning from care to independent adulthood.

• Understanding of Pathway Planning and the support available to care leavers.

• Knowledge of safeguarding procedures and relevant children's social care legislation and guidance.

• Experience assessing needs, developing support plans and managing a caseload.

• Strong communication, relationship-building and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with multi-agency professionals.

• Good organisational skills, including the ability to manage competing priorities and maintain accurate records.

• Ability to support young people with budgeting, accommodation, education, employment and independent living.

• A commitment to promoting young people's participation, rights, independence and well-being.

Working Arrangements

The role offers hybrid working, with work based at Sand Martin House and Chauffeurs Cottage in Peterborough. The post holder must be able to undertake visits and attend meetings at relevant locations as required.

Flexibility is essential to meet the needs of young people and the requirements of the service.

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for a proactive, compassionate and resilient Personal Advisor who can build trusting relationships with young people, advocate for their needs and help them overcome barriers to independence.

Candidates with previous experience in a Leaving Care Service, Personal Advisor role or a similar service supporting care leavers are encouraged to apply.

Working Arrangement: Hybrid – 2 days in the office, with the remainder working remotely

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Senior Lawyer to provide high-quality, solution-focused legal advice across a relevant area of specialism.

This is an excellent opportunity for a confident legal professional to manage complex legal matters, advise senior stakeholders and contribute to the delivery of an effective, forward-thinking legal service.

You will manage a varied and often complex caseload, provide pragmatic legal solutions, and ensure that decisions and activities are legally compliant, risk-aware and aligned with wider organisational priorities.

The role offers a flexible hybrid working arrangement, with just two days per week in the office and the remainder working remotely.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive, high-quality legal advice to service areas, senior officers and key stakeholders.

• Manage a substantial and varied caseload, ensuring effective case management, compliance with statutory deadlines and timely delivery of legal services.

• Represent the organisation in contested matters, including advocacy and court appearances where required.

• Build and maintain strong working relationships with senior stakeholders, external legal representatives and colleagues across the organisation.

• Provide clear, practical and solution-focused advice on complex legal issues, identifying risks and recommending appropriate courses of action.

• Undertake legal research into new legislation, case law, court procedures and relevant legal developments.

• Prepare legal briefings, reports and advice notes, and deliver training to colleagues on relevant legal matters.

• Attend committee meetings, working groups and other meetings to provide legal guidance and support effective decision-making.

• Identify opportunities to improve legal processes, policies and working practices, promoting a proactive and efficient legal service.

• Work collaboratively with senior colleagues on complex, sensitive or high-profile matters.

• Support the development of junior colleagues through mentoring and knowledge-sharing where required.

• Maintain accurate case management records and uphold best practice in file management, risk management and time recording.

About You

The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

• Significant experience providing legal advice within a relevant area of specialism.

• Experience working within a public sector or comparable legal environment.

• Strong case management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet strict deadlines.

• Excellent communication, negotiation and relationship-building skills.

• The confidence to handle challenging discussions, complex legal issues and contentious matters.

• Sound legal judgement, with the ability to assess risk and provide pragmatic, solutions-focused advice.

• Strong legal research, drafting and analytical skills.

• The ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a collaborative legal team.

• Political awareness and an understanding of the challenges involved in advising public sector organisations.

• A commitment to delivering high-quality legal services and driving continuous improvement.

What’s on Offer?

• Hybrid working: Just two days per week in the office, with the remainder remote.

• Varied and challenging work: Exposure to complex legal matters and opportunities to apply your expertise.

• Senior stakeholder engagement: Work closely with senior professionals and key decision-makers.

• Professional development: Opportunities to share knowledge, mentor colleagues and contribute to service improvements.

• Meaningful impact: Play an important role in supporting effective decision-making and delivering organisational priorities.

Interested?

If you are an experienced legal professional looking for your next opportunity, we would love to hear from you.

Apply today to find out more about this opportunity and how you can make an impact within a dynamic legal services team.

Contract Opportunity | HCPC Registered Educational Psychologists

We are seeking experienced, HCPC-registered Educational Psychologists to undertake statutory assessments for children and young people.

This opportunity is suited to qualified Educational Psychologists with a minimum of three years’ post-qualification experience who can deliver high-quality, evidence-based assessments and meet statutory deadlines.

What We Offer

• Comprehensive induction: Clear guidance, induction information and access to a bank of example statutory advice reports.

• GDPR-compliant equipment: A work laptop provided to support secure handling of confidential information.

• Quality assurance and operational support: A supportive quality assurance process, alongside an experienced operational support team.

• Professional resources: Access to service resources and psychological assessment and testing equipment.

• Training and CPD: A complimentary place at the annual safeguarding training day, with opportunities to participate in additional continuing professional development activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct face-to-face consultations, observations and psychological assessments in schools, early years settings and family homes.

• Prepare high-quality statutory assessment advice and reports that inform decision-making for children and young people.

• Participate fully in the service’s quality assurance processes.

• Ensure 100% compliance with statutory deadlines, maintaining accuracy, quality and timeliness across all assigned assessments.

• Handle sensitive information in accordance with GDPR and relevant professional standards.

Essential Requirements

• HCPC registration as a Practitioner Psychologist.

• A minimum of three years’ post-qualification experience as an Educational Psychologist.

• Demonstrable experience of undertaking statutory assessments.

• The ability to conduct face-to-face assessments across educational settings and family homes.

• A strong commitment to high-quality report writing, professional standards and statutory timescales.

• Willingness to engage fully with quality assurance procedures and safeguarding requirements.

Safer Recruitment

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults. The successful candidate will be required to undergo an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, including checks against the children’s and adults’ barred lists.

References will be required for all posts held during the previous five years. All references will be verified through direct contact with the referees.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should provide the following as part of their application:

• An up-to-date CV.

• Confirmation of their HCPC registration and relevant post-qualification experience.

• Details of the local authority Educational Psychology Services in England where they have undertaken statutory assessments.

• An anonymised example of a statutory assessment advice report they have authored.

• Confirmation that they are able to undertake face-to-face consultations, observations and assessments in schools, early years settings and family homes, and meet all statutory deadlines.

We welcome applications from experienced Educational Psychologists who are committed to delivering timely, high-quality statutory assessment advice and supporting positive outcomes for children and young people.