Overview
In this role you lead and support a CIC team to secure positive outcomes for children in care. You will mentor staff, oversee duty service, and act as a practice lead while collaborating with partners to deliver effective, value-for-money interventions. The position sits within a learning, reflective culture that prioritises child-centred practice and professional development. A key hook is working across Essex to shape timely, safe outcomes for children in care.
Pay / Benefits
- flexible working options
- development opportunities
- support for unpaid carers
- commitment to wellbeing
- disability confident leader
- inclusive recruitment practices
Responsibilities
- Provide team leadership and mentoring to social workers
- Facilitate reflective group supervision
- Oversee the team's duty service and respond in leadership capacity
- Deputise for the Team Manager as needed
- Lead in a specific practice area and contribute to service development
Key requirements
- Recognised social work qualification and current registration with Social Work England
- Evidence of continuing professional development aligned to professional frameworks
- Extensive social work experience with knowledge of relevant legislation and guidance
- Experience mentoring students and staff and acting as a subject matter expert
- Experience chairing meetings with clients, families, and multi-agency professionals
- Ability to build strong partnerships and promote joint objectives
- Understanding of value-for-money interventions balanced against need
- Mobility to travel across Essex and beyond; driving licence or suitable alternatives
- leadership
- mentoring
- relationship-building
- professional social work practice
- legislation, regulation and guidance knowledge
- reflective supervision techniques
Senior Practitioner - Children in Care, West Essex in Chelmsford employer: Essex County Council
Essex County Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and flexible work environment for Social Workers dedicated to making a difference in the lives of young people with disabilities. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing, innovative practices, and professional development, our team enjoys a nine-day working fortnight and numerous opportunities for growth within a dynamic local authority. Join us in Chelmsford, where your contributions will be valued, and together we can empower the next generation to thrive.
