At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage diverse caseloads in children's safeguarding and adult social care law.
- Company: St Helens Borough Council, committed to supporting vulnerable communities.
- Benefits: Generous holiday, local government pension, health support, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with excellent work-life balance and career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children and vulnerable adults while growing your legal expertise.
- Qualifications: Experience in social care law; newly qualified solicitors are welcome to apply.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 ÂŁ per year.
St Helens Borough Council is inviting applications for the following positions:
- 1 x full time, Children & Young People/Education Solicitor
- 1 x part time, Children & Young People/Education Solicitor – 4 days per week (29.60 hours)
- 1 x full time, Adult Social Care & Education Solicitor
Children’s Role
The children’s role will cover a wide and varied case load of children’s safeguarding matters, including pre‑proceedings, care proceedings, discharge and revocation proceedings, DOLS and general advice. You will be responsible for managing a caseload of childcare cases and advising on all aspects of law relevant to Child Protection and Safeguarding, including advocacy in the Family Court. Advocacy experience is therefore desirable. You will work collaboratively with colleagues across Legal Services and with officers in Children’s Services, Adult Social Care, Education and Health, providing proactive legal advice. We welcome applications from candidates wishing to develop their knowledge in all areas of social care.
Adult’s Role
We are looking for candidates with experience of adult social care, which will be the main focus of the role. Experience or a willingness to develop expertise in education law including SEN would be an advantage. Your caseload will include a wide variety of matters in relation to vulnerable adults, including the associated advocacy, such as Court of Protection matters and advice relating to the Care Act 2014, the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and the Mental Health Act 1983. We welcome applications from Solicitors, Barristers and Legal Executives (with Practice Rights). We are looking for candidates with relevant experience in local government. However, the roles will also be suitable for a newly qualified solicitor or barrister.
You will be joining an experienced team, supported by experienced Principal and Senior Solicitors as well as a high level of assistance from experienced support staff. This will allow you to focus on the key aspects of your role and support professional development and a positive work‑life balance.
Benefits
We offer a generous benefits package, including a career‑average local government pension, at least 27 days holiday increasing to 31 after 5 years continuous service, with the option to purchase up to 10 additional days, Health and Well‑being Employee Assistance programme, and a car lease scheme.
Contact
For further information or an informal chat about these roles, please contact Sharon Hymes – Principal Solicitor on 07734 227372 or email sharonhymes@sthelens.gov.uk.
Interview Dates
Week commencing 15 June 2026.
Lawyer / Solicitor x 3 - Children & Young People, Education, & Adult Social Care & Integrated H[...] in St Helens employer: St Helens Council
Contact Detail:
St Helens Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lawyer / Solicitor x 3 - Children & Young People, Education, & Adult Social Care & Integrated H[...] in St Helens
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who work in local government or social care. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings and even recommendations.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on relevant laws and recent cases in children’s safeguarding and adult social care. Show us you’re not just knowledgeable but also passionate about making a difference in these areas.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a follow-up! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at St Helens Borough Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Lawyer / Solicitor x 3 - Children & Young People, Education, & Adult Social Care & Integrated H[...] in St Helens
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience in children’s safeguarding and adult social care. We want to see how your skills align with the specific roles we're offering, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant expertise!
Showcase Your Advocacy Skills: If you have advocacy experience, especially in Family Court or related areas, make it a focal point in your application. We’re keen on candidates who can demonstrate their ability to represent vulnerable clients effectively.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly see why you’d be a great fit for our team!
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 St Helens Council
✨Know Your Law
Brush up on the key areas of law relevant to the role, especially around child protection, safeguarding, and adult social care. Be prepared to discuss specific cases or legislation that you’ve worked with, as this will show your understanding and experience.
✨Show Your Advocacy Skills
Since advocacy experience is desirable, think of examples where you've successfully represented a client or case in court. Practise articulating these experiences clearly, focusing on your approach and the outcomes achieved.
✨Collaborative Mindset
This role involves working closely with various teams. Prepare to discuss how you’ve collaborated with colleagues in the past, particularly in legal settings. Highlight any instances where teamwork led to successful outcomes for clients.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, or challenges faced by the council. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.