At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead court proceedings for Children's Social Care and ensure high-quality practice.
- Company: Join Barnet Council, a vibrant community-focused organisation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 31 days annual leave, flexible working options, and lifestyle discounts.
- Other info: Embrace a supportive environment that values diversity and work-life balance.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Qualified social worker with 3+ years in statutory children’s social care.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Important Information for Current Barnet Council Employees
This position is open to internal candidates employed by LBB. Any applications received from external candidates outside of the above will not be considered and will be automatically rejected.
About Barnet Council
Barnet is a borough with much to be proud of. Our excellent schools, vibrant town centres, vast green spaces and diverse communities all help make it a great place to live and work. As a council we want to build on these strengths as we move into the future. We are growing and developing as an organisation to meet the challenges facing our borough and we are committed to working with partner organisations and residents to make Barnet even better. As an organisation, our staff are committed to Our Values: Learning to Improve, Caring, Inclusive, Collaborative – which drive everything we do.
About the role
At the London Borough of Barnet, we are ambitious for our children and families. We are committed to delivering an integrated, child‑centred and relational approach to Family Help and safeguarding, focused on improving outcomes through excellent practice, strong partnerships and a culture that values innovation, learning and reflective leadership.
The Court Progression Officer provides strategic oversight, coordination and professional leadership for all court proceedings involving Children’s Social Care, including Public Law Outline (PLO), pre proceedings and care proceedings. The post holder exercises professional authority across the service to direct and influence practice, ensuring that all court work meets high standards of quality, timeliness and compliance.
The role works collaboratively across all social work services, Legal Services and partner agencies, while holding practitioners and managers to account for delivering effective, child focused and legally robust court work in line with statutory requirements and court expectations.
The post holder acts as a central point of expertise, assurance and practice leadership, providing oversight, challenge and direction to practitioners and managers, and supporting senior leadership to maintain strong governance of court and PLO activity across Family Services. This includes driving improvement in case progression, reducing delay, strengthening practice quality and enhancing the Local Authority’s interface with the courts.
About you
You will be a qualified and registered social worker with a minimum of 3 years post qualified experience in statutory children’s social care. You will:
- Have substantial experience of working within care proceedings, including Public Law Outline (PLO), interim and final orders.
- Have strong knowledge of care and permanence planning with the ability to promote high quality, evidence-based planning for children.
- Have considerable post-qualifying direct experience in adoption work.
- Have demonstrable experience of improving or supporting case progression and reducing delay in court proceedings.
- Have experience of providing advice, consultation or professional challenge to social workers and managers.
- Have experience of joint working with Legal Services, CAFCASS and partner agencies.
- Be able to maintain oversight of complex, high volume information and identify risk, drift or delay.
- Be able to deliver practice guidance, briefings or learning sessions.
What we offer
- 31 days annual leave, plus public and bank holidays
- Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme, which provides a valuable guaranteed income in your retirement together with security for your dependents
- Work-life balance options may include hybrid working, flexitime, job share, home working, part-time
- A vast range of lifestyle discounts from major retailers, supermarkets, energy suppliers and more
- Broad range of payroll benefits including cycle to work, eye care vouchers, travel and gym membership
- Excellent training and development opportunities
- Employee well-being training programs including confidential employee assistance
How to apply
Read the job description and person specification before clicking ‘Apply’ to commence the online application form. If you would like any further information about the role before applying, please contact Lakeisha Hicks on Lakeisha.hicks@barnet.gov.uk.
Barnet Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Barnet operates stringent safer recruitment procedures.
To deliver Barnet Council’s commitment to equality of opportunity in the provision of services, all staff are expected to promote equality in the workplace and in the services the Council delivers. As such we value diversity and welcome applications from all backgrounds.
Barnet Council embraces all forms of flexible working (including part-time, compressed hours, and hybrid working) and is committed to offering employees a healthy work-life balance. Candidates are encouraged to talk about relevant requirements and preferences at interview.
Barnet Council is a Disability Confident Committed Employer. We welcome and encourage job applications of all abilities. If you require any reasonable adjustments in the application or interview, please contact the lead contact on this advert.
All posts with the council are subject to a probationary period of six months, during which time you will be required to demonstrate to the council satisfaction your suitability for the position in which you will be employed.
Due to the high number of applications that are received for some posts we may close vacancies before the stated closing date if sufficient number of applications are received. Therefore, please apply as soon as possible.
Please ensure you regularly check the email account (including JUNK MAIL folders) that you use to submit your application, as any further communication regarding your application will be sent electronically. Should you not hear from us within four working weeks of the closing date for this post, then regretfully in this instance, you have not been shortlisted.
Court Progression Officer - Internal in London employer: Borough of Barnet
Barnet Council is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and professional growth of its staff, offering a supportive work culture that values collaboration, inclusivity, and continuous learning. With generous benefits such as 31 days of annual leave, access to the Local Government Pension Scheme, and flexible working options, employees can achieve a healthy work-life balance while making a meaningful impact in the community. The council's commitment to safeguarding and promoting welfare ensures that all staff are engaged in rewarding work that contributes to the betterment of Barnet's diverse communities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Court Progression Officer - Internal in London
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure you apply through the Opportunity Marketplace on our internal site. This way, your application is flagged as internal, which helps speed up the process and ensures it gets the attention it deserves.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with colleagues who are already in the role or department you're interested in. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you, which can really help your chances!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for your interview by brushing up on the key responsibilities of the Court Progression Officer role. Think about how your experience aligns with the job description and be ready to share specific examples.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a positive impression and shows that you’re genuinely interested in the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Court Progression Officer - Internal in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly:Before you start your application, give the job description a good read. It’s packed with info about what we’re looking for, and it’ll help you tailor your application to show us why you’re the perfect fit!
Showcase Your Experience:When filling out your application, make sure to highlight your relevant experience, especially in care proceedings and working with children’s social care. We want to see how your background aligns with what we do here at Barnet Council.
Be Authentic:We value honesty, so be yourself in your application. Share your genuine experiences and insights, and don’t hesitate to let your personality shine through. We’re looking for real people who are passionate about making a difference!
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to apply via our website to ensure your application is processed correctly. This helps us keep track of internal candidates like you and speeds up the recruitment process. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Borough of Barnet
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of care proceedings, especially the Public Law Outline (PLO). Be ready to discuss your experience in detail, as this role requires a solid understanding of statutory children's social care.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
This position involves working closely with various teams, including Legal Services and partner agencies. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past, highlighting your ability to work in a team and drive effective outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Qualities
As a Court Progression Officer, you'll need to provide oversight and direction. Think of instances where you've taken the lead or provided guidance to others, and be ready to share these experiences during your interview.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some insightful questions about the role and the council's approach to child-centred practice. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if the position is the right fit for you.
