At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage child protection cases and supervise junior staff in a supportive legal team.
- Company: Isle of Wight Council, dedicated to community welfare and inclusivity.
- Benefits: 32 days annual leave, local discounts, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to safeguarding children and promoting community welfare.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in social care while developing your legal career.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor or barrister with strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills.
The predicted salary is between 43000 - 53000 £ per year.
Contract type: Permanent
Hours: Full-time
Department: Social Care Legal Team
Salary Grade: 13, £49,600 to £53,191 per annum + Market supplement £3000 FTE
Location: County Hall, Newport, Isle of Wight and agile working (37 hours per week)
Are you a proactive and capable Child Protection lawyer looking for an exciting new opportunity? We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Lawyer to join our Legal Services Team. You will manage a full caseload (8 to 10 cases) focused almost exclusively on care proceedings as there will be no SEN, Care Home or DOLS work.
Looking to gain management experience and develop your skills? You will supervise junior staff and trainees alongside providing advice to the wider council and its members on child care law and/or adult social care law.
Why join us? We understand the importance of work-life balance and are happy to discuss suitable flexible and agile working arrangements to best fit your needs. You will be part of a dedicated team committed to making a difference in the community, working in a supportive environment with opportunities to work on diverse and challenging cases, and assist in projects, supporting professional growth.
What we are looking for:
- Relevant professional qualifications (qualified solicitor, barrister or CFILEX)
- Proven initiative and judgement to identify, research and resolve problems with excellent interpersonal, persuasion and negotiating skills
- Motivated worker who will connect and engage with the team
- Diplomatic worker who is invested in securing the best outcomes for those we serve
Join #TeamIWC and you'll receive our staff benefits package, including:
- Annual leave entitlement of 32 days p/a PLUS public holidays!
- Local Government pension scheme
- Discounted Solent ferry travel
- Island bus network discount
- Cycle to work scheme
- Staff parking permit scheme
- Discounted island sports & leisure gym membership
- National and local discounts & benefits schemes
- Relocation scheme of up to £8,000 may be available for some roles (subject to criteria)
- Travel allowance may be available if commuting from the mainland (subject to criteria)
The Isle of Wight Council currently does not have a license to sponsor overseas workers. We actively promote the diversity of our workforce, and provide flexible working options (where appropriate) to support the different needs of our employees. We are an equal opportunities employer, proud to encourage applications from all cultures, backgrounds and abilities to better reflect the diversity within our local community. We are a Disability Confident employer.
The Isle of Wight Council protects its employees from discrimination, and this is supported by unacceptable behaviour policy, employee code of conduct, our values, culture and inclusivity.
The Isle of Wight Council’s Terms & Conditions of employment are available upon request. Please contact our recruitment team via adverts@iow.gov.uk if you would like to receive a copy.
The Isle of Wight Council reserve the right to close vacancies earlier than stated, if required. To ensure your application is considered, it is recommended to submit your application promptly.
This council and its schools recruit according to the council’s Recruitment, Policy and Procedure and are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share in this commitment.
For support completing your online application or for further information on how to apply, phone 01983 823134 or email callcentre@iow.gov.uk. Only applications submitted online by the closing date will be accepted.
We often receive a high volume of applicants for our vacancies. If you do not hear from the recruiting manager within three weeks of the closing date, we regret that your application will not have been successful on this occasion. Please revisit our job page for alternate posts that may be suitable.
Please read the Application Guidance Notes before applying. If you are unable to complete this application, email us at careers@iow.gov.uk or telephone us on 01983 823113.
Senior Lawyer - Social Care in Newport employer: Community Care Live
The Isle of Wight Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises work-life balance and professional growth. As a Senior Lawyer in the Social Care Legal Team, you will engage in meaningful work that directly impacts the community while enjoying benefits such as generous annual leave, flexible working arrangements, and opportunities for career development. Join us to be part of a dedicated team committed to making a difference, all while enjoying the unique lifestyle that the Isle of Wight has to offer.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Lawyer - Social Care in Newport
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including Community Care Live, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Lawyer - Social Care in Newport
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Community Care Live, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Community Care Live and the specific role of Senior Lawyer - Social Care. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Community Care Live’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Community Care Live
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Community Care Live.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Community Care Live.
