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- Tasks: Represent Southwark Children’s Services in court and provide expert legal advice.
- Company: Join Southwark Council's dynamic Safeguarding and Community Services Legal team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, additional benefits package, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while advancing your legal career.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified Solicitor, Barrister or CILEX Fellow with advocacy rights.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to diversity and tackling racial inequality.
The predicted salary is between 57678 - 71742 £ per year.
Reference number: SC07689
Location: London
Schedule: Full‑time
Salary: £57,678 - £71,742 per annum (additional benefits package valued at £2,724 pro‑rata annually)
Contract type: Fixed term (12‑month)
About the role
Southwark Council’s Safeguarding and Community Services Legal team is seeking an exceptional In‑House Childcare Advocate on a 12‑month fixed‑term contract.
Key responsibilities
- Represent Southwark Children’s Services at all levels of court, managing your own advocacy diary.
- Provide expert legal advice on complex childcare law to senior management, officers, Cabinet and committees.
- Take instructions from an experienced in‑house legal team and collaborate closely with colleagues across services.
- Lead on identifying legal issues arising from litigation or legislative change and develop effective strategies.
- Draft complex pleadings, reports and legal submissions.
- Advise on governance, risk and case management within a public law framework.
- Deliver training to social work clients and legal colleagues, supporting continuous professional development.
- Represent Southwark in external networks, including Local Family Justice Boards and working groups.
Key qualifications
- Current practising certificate as a Solicitor, Barrister or CILEX Fellow with rights of advocacy.
- Strong expertise in public and private childcare law, including child protection, adoption and fostering.
- Significant advocacy experience in contested, fact‑finding and final hearings.
- Track record of managing complex cases and delivering high‑quality outcomes under pressure.
- Excellent drafting, communication and client care skills.
- Ability to build trusted relationships and influence at senior levels and in multi‑agency environments.
- Collaborative approach and commitment to continuous learning and development.
Guaranteed interview scheme
- Members of the Armed Forces and veterans.
- Individuals currently in care or previously in care.
- Individuals who identify as disabled or have a long‑term health condition.
EEO Statement
We are an organisation that is passionate about our people and committed to tackling racial inequality in our communities and workforce. We particularly welcome applications from members of black, Asian and ethnic minority communities to increase representation at senior management level.
Recruitment timetable
Closing date: 11th May 2026 at 23:59. Interview date: Week commencing 1 June 2026 (in person at Tooley Street offices).
Childcare Advocate (In-House) - 12 MTH FTC in Horsham employer: Lawyers In Local Government
Contact Detail:
Lawyers In Local Government Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Childcare Advocate (In-House) - 12 MTH FTC in Horsham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who have experience in childcare law. They might have insider info on job openings or can even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your advocacy skills. Think about real-life scenarios where you've successfully managed complex cases and be ready to discuss them. We want to hear how you’ve made a difference!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your collaborative spirit! During interviews, highlight your ability to work with multi-agency teams and how you’ve built trusted relationships. This is key for a role like Childcare Advocate.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Childcare Advocate (In-House) - 12 MTH FTC in Horsham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Childcare Advocate role. Highlight your experience in childcare law and advocacy, and show us how your skills align with the key responsibilities mentioned in the job description.
Showcase Your Advocacy Skills: Since this role involves managing your own advocacy diary, it’s crucial to demonstrate your advocacy experience. Share specific examples of cases you've handled, especially those that involved complex legal issues or high-pressure situations.
Be Clear and Concise: When drafting your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. We want to see your excellent drafting skills shine through, so make every word count.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lawyers In Local Government
✨Know Your Childcare Law
Brush up on your knowledge of public and private childcare law, especially around child protection, adoption, and fostering. Being able to discuss recent cases or legislative changes will show your expertise and passion for the role.
✨Showcase Your Advocacy Skills
Prepare to discuss your advocacy experience in detail. Think of specific examples where you managed complex cases or delivered high-quality outcomes under pressure. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of the role.
✨Build Relationships
Highlight your ability to build trusted relationships and influence at senior levels. Be ready to share examples of how you've collaborated with colleagues across services or engaged with external networks, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and legal reasoning. Practice articulating your thought process clearly, as this will help you convey your approach to identifying legal issues and developing effective strategies.