At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead court case management and ensure timely progression for children's services.
- Company: Southend Council, dedicated to improving children's lives.
- Benefits: 25 days annual leave, flexible working, and excellent training opportunities.
- Other info: Hybrid working available; on-site at Civic Centre 3 days a week.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Social Work qualification, registered with Social Work England, and extensive family law knowledge.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Your new role aims to provide potential candidates with a better understanding of the requirements for this role. Southend Council are looking to appoint a Court Progression Manager within Children's Services within a 1-year fixed term capacity. The successful candidate will currently be a Team Manager or experienced Advanced Practitioner who can focus on driving the quality and timeliness of court work. They will play a vital role in ensuring cases progress in line with statutory timescales and that children achieve permanence without delay.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage and quality assure legal gateway referrals and PLO documentation
- Ensure written social evidence and assessments, plans and reports are of the highest standard, prepared in clear, comprehensible language
- Track and monitor care proceedings, PLO, and private law cases using trackers, dashboards, and LCS
- Chair and coordinate PPMs and case progression reviews to prevent drift and delay, and appropriately escalate concerns
- Oversee assessments, permanence planning, and legal processes
- Provide quality assurance, guidance, and support to practitioners and managers across Family Help, CWD, AIPT, and CLA teams
- Use Power BI and data to monitor performance and produce reports
- Lead monthly tracking meetings and contribute to strategic forums
- Deliver training on PLO, care proceedings, CPRs, and court work
Within this position, hybrid working opportunities are available. However, you are required to be on-site at the Civic Centre a minimum of 3 days a week.
What you'll need to succeed
To be shortlisted for this position, you must be able to work in the UK, have a recognised Social Work qualification, be registered with Social Work England, and have completed your ASYE. You should have extensive knowledge of family law and children's legislation, including the application of the Public Law Outline and the conduct of Court Cases. Experience of complex care proceedings, preparing evidence, witness statements, care plans, and giving oral evidence in court is essential. You need to have front line children's service experience, along with PLO, care proceedings, and court processes. Be confident in managing timescales, data, and oversight of complex caseloads and skilled in quality assurance, analysis, and supporting practice improvement.
What you'll get in return
When joining the council, you can enjoy a range of benefits including: 25 days annual leave, flexible working, and excellent training and development opportunities. They are committed to ensuring that you are supported in this varied and challenging role with the appropriate level of training.
Court Progression Manager - 1 year Fixed Term Contract in Chelmsford employer: Hays
Southend Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work environment that prioritises the well-being and professional development of its staff. With flexible working arrangements, comprehensive training opportunities, and a commitment to quality in children's services, employees can thrive while making a meaningful impact in the community. The role of Court Progression Manager not only allows for significant career growth but also provides the chance to contribute to the lives of children and families in need.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Court Progression Manager - 1 year Fixed Term Contract in Chelmsford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the social work field, especially those who might have insights into the Court Progression Manager role. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of family law and children's legislation. Be ready to discuss your experience with PLO and care proceedings, as these are key to the role. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills in quality assurance and data analysis during interviews. Bring examples of how you've improved processes or outcomes in previous roles. This will demonstrate your fit for the position and your proactive approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are keen to join us at StudySmarter!
We think you need these skills to ace Court Progression Manager - 1 year Fixed Term Contract in Chelmsford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the Court Progression Manager role. Highlight your experience with family law, care proceedings, and any relevant management roles to show us you’re the right fit.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about this role and how your background aligns with our needs. Be sure to mention your understanding of statutory timescales and quality assurance.
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to manage complex caseloads and improve practice. Numbers and outcomes can really make your application stand out to us!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays
✨Know Your Legislation
Make sure you brush up on family law and children's legislation, especially the Public Law Outline. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but can apply it in practice.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've managed complex care proceedings or quality assured legal documents. This will help demonstrate your hands-on experience and how it aligns with the responsibilities of the Court Progression Manager role.
✨Data Savvy is Key
Familiarise yourself with tools like Power BI and how to use data for tracking and reporting. Be ready to discuss how you’ve used data in previous roles to monitor performance and improve processes.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Consider doing mock interviews with a friend or colleague. Focus on articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, especially when discussing your approach to managing timescales and overseeing complex caseloads.
