We are seeking an experienced and motivated Senior Practitioner to join a busy Help and Protection service supporting children, young people and families. This is an opportunity for a qualified social worker to provide skilled practice, professional leadership and effective safeguarding across a varied and challenging caseload.
You will undertake high-quality assessments, develop and review child protection plans, and make sure that children’s voices, wishes and feelings remain central to all decision-making. You will work collaboratively with parents, carers, schools, health professionals, police and other partner agencies to identify risk, strengthen families and achieve positive outcomes. Where required, you will contribute to care proceedings, permanency planning and evidence-based reports for court.
As a Senior Practitioner, you will support the development of colleagues through case discussions, reflective supervision, mentoring and practice guidance. You will promote consistently high standards of social work, contribute to service improvement and help embed effective approaches to risk assessment, direct work and threshold decision-making. The role will also involve managing competing priorities, maintaining accurate records and ensuring that statutory responsibilities are met within required timescales.
Applicants must hold a recognised Social Work qualification and current registration with Social Work England. You will have substantial post-qualification experience in children’s social care, including work within child protection, safeguarding or children in need services. A sound understanding of relevant legislation, statutory guidance and court processes is essential, together with the ability to analyse complex information and make proportionate, defensible decisions.
You will be a confident communicator with strong relationship-building skills and the resilience to work effectively in demanding circumstances. We are looking for someone who is organised, reflective and committed to anti-discriminatory practice, improving outcomes for children and supporting families with compassion and professionalism. Experience of supervising or mentoring social workers would be an advantage.
Senior Practitioner - Help & Protection - Birmingham employer: Eden Brown Synergy
Gateshead Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee development and well-being. As part of the Independent Living Service, you will have the opportunity to lead a dedicated team while making a meaningful impact in the community. With competitive pay rates and a commitment to quality assurance, this role provides a rewarding environment for professional growth in a vibrant local authority setting.
