Social Worker Senior Practitioner - Families First Team in Durham, County Durham

Job Title: Social Worker Senior Practitioner – Families First Team
Specialism: Social Worker – Children
Location: Durham, UK
Salary: £32.73 per hour
Type: Ongoing, Part Time / Full Time

Social Worker Senior Practitioner within the Families First Team in Durham, earning £32.73 per hour. This ongoing locum opportunity offers both part-time and full-time flexibility, providing an excellent chance to join Durham County Council's dedicated Children's Services team. In this rewarding leadership role, you will manage complex cases, support colleagues in their professional development, and help deliver positive, lasting outcomes for children, young people, and families.

Perks and benefits

• Part Time / Full Time: Choose a working pattern that suits your lifestyle while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
• Hourly Pay: Earn a competitive rate of £32.73 per hour, rewarding your expertise and commitment.
• Enhanced Career Development: Access ongoing training, leadership opportunities, and professional development to support your career progression.
• Dynamic Working Environment: Join a collaborative and innovative team committed to improving outcomes for children and families.
• Dedicated Support: Benefit from guidance, mentoring, and resources to help you excel in your role.
• Meaningful Impact: Make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable children, young people, and their families.

What you will do

• Case Management: Manage a complex caseload involving children, young people, and families requiring statutory intervention and support.
• Assessment and Planning: Complete high-quality assessments, care plans, interventions, and reviews in line with legislation and statutory guidance.
• Practice Leadership: Provide expert advice and support on complex cases, helping to develop and strengthen team practice.
• Mentoring: Coach, mentor, and support colleagues to promote continuous professional development and improved outcomes.
• Multi-Agency Working: Collaborate with partner agencies to deliver coordinated and effective support for children and families.
• Court Work: Prepare detailed reports and present evidence in court proceedings when required.
• Safeguarding: Identify, assess, and respond to safeguarding concerns to ensure the safety and wellbeing of children.
• Strengths-Based Practice: Promote family strengths and resilience to support sustainable, positive change.
• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate, timely, and compliant case records in accordance with council policies and professional standards.

Qualifications / Requirements

• Social Work Qualification: Degree in Social Work or equivalent recognised qualification.
• Registration: Current Social Work England registration.
• Experience: Significant post-qualification experience working with children, young people, and families within Children's Services.
• Leadership Skills: Experience providing mentoring, support, or supervision to colleagues and less experienced practitioners.
• Legislative Knowledge: Strong understanding of the Children Act 1989, Children Act 2004, safeguarding procedures, and related statutory guidance.
• Assessment Skills: Proven ability to undertake complex assessments and formulate effective intervention plans.
• Communication Skills: Excellent report-writing, analytical, and interpersonal skills.
• Court Experience: Experience preparing court reports and presenting evidence where required.

Why Durham

Durham offers an exceptional quality of life, combining rich history, beautiful countryside, and vibrant local communities. Famous for its stunning cathedral, picturesque landscapes, and welcoming atmosphere, Durham provides the perfect setting for both professional development and personal wellbeing. With excellent amenities, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities, it is a fantastic place to live and work.

Working with Sanctuary Personnel

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Take the next step in your social work career and join the Families First Team in Durham with Sanctuary Personnel.