At a Glance
- Tasks: Represent the council at Family Court and handle complex child protection cases.
- Company: Join Barnsley Council's Childcare Team, dedicated to supporting vulnerable children.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working arrangements, and generous annual leave.
- Other info: The position is permanent with a closing date for applications on 26/06/2026.
- Why this job: This role offers comprehensive training and the chance to make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Candidates must hold appropriate legal documents and pass a Basic Criminal Record Check.
The predicted salary is between 51356 - 54495 £ per year.
We are recruiting for a permanent In‑House Advocate to work predominantly within our Childcare Team.
Key responsibilities include:
- Representing the council at various courts.
- Supporting the childcare legal team.
- Handling complex child protection cases.
- Providing legal documentation and advice.
- Carrying out legal research.
Main Duties:
- Represent the council at Family Court and High Court hearings.
- Sit within the childcare legal management team and provide support and deputise for other managers.
- Assist with allocation of work and personal development of the childcare legal team.
- Support lawyers in training and development, deputise for principal and senior lawyers.
- Deal with complex care matters around adoption, injury, fatalities and those with international elements.
- Handle complex caseload of child protection, deprivation of liberty applications and associated advocacy in the Family Court.
- Advise social services clients in person and in writing on relevant legislation.
- Prepare legal documentation for hearings/caseloads and a wide range of court documents.
- Carry out legal research.
Benefits:
- Legal assistant support.
- Comprehensive training and development opportunities.
- Competitive salary.
- Local government pension scheme with an option for additional voluntary contributions.
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
- Generous annual leave and discretionary days.
- Flexi time and further flexi days benefit.
- Car lease scheme and salary sacrifice options for car, cycle, electronics, childcare vouchers, etc.
- Discounts on parking, rail, eating out, leisure, and gym memberships.
- Family‑friendly policies with maternity, paternity and adoption entitlements.
EEO & Inclusivity Statement:
We’re committed to creating a workplace where differences are valued and everyone truly feels able to be themselves. If you have any support needs during the recruitment process, please let us know. At Barnsley Council, we believe in second chances and value diversity. Our recruitment process is inclusive and welcomes applicants with past convictions. We are committed to fairness and do not discriminate.
Advocate Lawyer (Childcare) in Barnsley employer: Barnsley Council
Barnsley Council is an excellent employer for those seeking a meaningful career in social work, particularly within the supportive environment of the Hospital Social Work Team. With a strong emphasis on collaboration with health professionals and a commitment to employee growth through flexible working arrangements, staff are empowered to make a real difference in the lives of individuals with complex care needs. The council fosters a culture of inclusivity and professional development, making it an attractive place for qualified social workers to thrive.
