Social Worker - Child Protection Team in Derbyshire, Derbyshire

Job Title: Social Worker – Child Protection Team
Specialism: Social Worker – Children’s (Child Protection)
Location: Derbyshire, UK
Salary: £35.00 per hour
Type: Ongoing (Part Time or Full Time)

Perks and benefits

• Competitive Hourly Pay: Earn £35.00 per hour, recognising your experience and responsibility within frontline safeguarding services.
• Part Time / Full Time Options: Choose a working pattern that supports your lifestyle while maintaining continuity for children and families.
• Locum Flexibility: Benefit from the freedom of locum work while gaining valuable statutory safeguarding experience.
• Professional Development: Access ongoing training and learning opportunities to strengthen child protection and court‑related practice.
• Staff Wellbeing Support: Benefit from employee wellbeing and assistance programmes supporting both physical and mental health.

Role overview

Derbyshire County Council is seeking an experienced Social Worker to join its Child Protection Team on an ongoing basis. You will play a crucial role in safeguarding vulnerable children and young people, ensuring timely and effective interventions in line with statutory guidance.

You will manage complex caseloads involving Child Protection Plans, Children in Need, and court proceedings, working collaboratively with families and partner agencies to reduce risk and achieve positive outcomes.

What you will do

• Manage a complex caseload of children subject to Child Protection Plans, Children in Need, and legal proceedings.
• Undertake statutory assessments, including Section 47 enquiries, in accordance with legislation and safeguarding procedures.
• Develop, implement, and review robust child protection and care plans tailored to each child’s needs.
• Work directly with children and families to reduce risk and promote sustainable change.
• Attend and contribute to child protection conferences, core groups, and court hearings.
• Prepare high‑quality, evidence‑based reports for court and statutory forums.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and compliant case records in line with statutory requirements.
• Ensure the child’s voice, wishes, and feelings remain central to all assessments and decisions.

Requirements

Essential:

• Qualified Social Worker registered with Social Work England.
• Proven experience in child protection, safeguarding, and court‑related work.
• Strong knowledge of the Children Act 1989 and safeguarding frameworks.
• Ability to manage high‑risk and complex caseloads effectively.
• Excellent communication, analytical, and report‑writing skills.

Desirable:

• Previous experience within a local authority Child Protection Team.
• Knowledge of local procedures and systems in Derbyshire.
• Additional safeguarding or risk assessment training.

Why Derbyshire

Derbyshire offers an exceptional quality of life, combining vibrant towns, welcoming communities, and stunning countryside including the Peak District. With excellent transport links and a strong commitment to safeguarding excellence, Derbyshire provides an ideal environment for social workers seeking both professional fulfilment and personal wellbeing.

Working with Sanctuary Personnel

Sanctuary Personnel is a trusted and award‑winning recruitment agency with an ‘Excellent’ Trustpilot rating from over 1,000 reviews. We are dedicated to securing the best possible rates and matching professionals with roles that align with their skills, experience, and career ambitions.

Apply now to join the Social Worker – Child Protection Team in Derbyshire and take the next step in your career with Sanctuary Personnel.