At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage children's safeguarding cases and provide high-quality legal advice.
- Company: Join a dedicated team at Thurrock Council making a real difference.
- Benefits: Generous leave, flexible working, and ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to shape the future of a vibrant community.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact on children's lives while balancing work and personal life.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor or barrister with at least 2 years' PQE required.
The predicted salary is between 55227 - 63675 £ per year.
Salary: £55,227 - £63,675 per annum (pro rata to hours worked as part-time)
Grade: G
Contract Type: Permanent
Working Hours: Part-time 21 hours per week
About the Department
We are a small, dedicated team of 13 lawyers and support staff, committed to providing a high-quality, responsive and client-focused legal service within the local authority. Working closely with colleagues across Children's Services and partner agencies, we provide trusted legal advice and support to help achieve positive outcomes for children and families. This part time role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution while maintaining a healthy balance between your professional and personal life. We value flexible working, recognise the importance of family and life outside of work and aim to create a supportive environment where you can develop your career while having the time and space to enjoy the things that matter to you.
About the Role
As a Safeguarding Lawyer you will be expected to manage a caseload of children's safeguarding matters and provide high quality advice to our Ofsted Outstanding client department. You will play a vital role in protecting children and supporting positive outcomes for families. You will provide high quality legal advice and representation across a varied and challenging caseload, working closely with social workers and partner agencies.
What We’re Looking For
We're looking for someone who is a qualified solicitor, barrister or Cilex with Litigation Rights and at least 2 years' PQE. Local Government experience is desirable but not essential. DBS Check: Basic DBS check is required for the role.
Benefits of Working with Us
- Generous annual leave entitlement
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Flexible and hybrid working opportunities (where applicable)
- Ongoing training and professional development
- Employee assistance programme and wellbeing support
- Staff discounts and local offers
- A supportive and inclusive working environment
Important Dates
- Closing Date (Redeployment Only): 5th October 2026
- Closing Date (Internal & External): 11th October 2026
- Interview Date: 15th & 16th October 2026
Additional Information
If you have any questions about the role or interview process, please contact: Petrena Sharpe - Principal Safeguarding Lawyer petrena.sharpe@thurrock.gov.uk or 01375 652052.
About Us
Working at Thurrock Council gives you the opportunity to join an organisation that is changing at pace, one where you can make a real difference to the lives of the people we serve. Thurrock Council is moving towards a new community leadership approach which involves linking with local partners and communities as we shape our improvement for the years ahead. This is an exciting time to join us, to shape the future success of our changing organisation and to have a positive influence on our borough.
Thurrock is located on the north bank of the river Thames. Our urban centres are a vibrant mix of established towns and new young communities, with a diverse and growing population of around 160,000 residents. We are an emerging cultural and arts centre, home to the production centre for the Royal Opera House and the National Skills Academy for Creative and Cultural Skills. We have excellent retail and leisure opportunities, including Lakeside Shopping Centre, country parks, forests, and marshes. Thurrock is just half an hour journey away from the centre of London by train and well connected by road.
Staff benefits
We offer lots of staff benefits, including a generous annual leave entitlement and hybrid working. We champion flexible working and job share applications are welcome.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
Thurrock Council is committed to equal opportunities. As a Disability Confident Employer, disabled people will be offered an interview where they meet all essential criteria on the person specification. We serve a diverse community where people are different yet equal. Diversity underpins everything we do.
Safeguarding Lawyer (Part-Time) in Grays employer: Thurrock Council
Thurrock Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises the well-being and professional development of its staff. As an Education Lead Adviser based in Grays, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of vulnerable children while collaborating with dedicated professionals in a multi-agency environment. With a strong commitment to employee growth and community engagement, Thurrock Council provides a rewarding career path for those passionate about safeguarding and educational attainment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Safeguarding Lawyer (Part-Time) in Grays
✨Leverage Your Local Law Community
Get involved with local legal societies or student law associations; they often have great networking events and workshops. It’s a brilliant way to meet practising lawyers and potentially get referred for part-time roles at firms like Thurrock Council.
✨Showcase Your Skills with Mock Trials
Participate in mock trial competitions or legal clinics while studying. This not only sharpens your skills but also gives you practical experiences to talk about in interviews—perfect for a part-time role in law!
✨Tap Into Internship Networks
Make use of university career services to find internships or part-time opportunities. Many law firms source talent directly from student pools, so getting your foot in the door can lead to a longer-term position at a place like Thurrock Council!
✨Apply Directly on Our Website
Don’t forget to check out Thurrock Council’s careers page for specific listings. Applying directly can often give you an edge—plus, we appreciate candidates who show interest in our firm specifically!
We think you need these skills to ace Safeguarding Lawyer (Part-Time) in Grays
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Law Experience:When applying for this part-time role, make sure to focus on any legal internships, placements, or volunteer work you've done. Even if it’s just shadowing a lawyer, let us know how these experiences shaped your understanding of law and legal services. Every bit counts and shows your commitment to the field!
Use Clear Legal Terminology:Since you’re applying for a position in law services, it’s important to use appropriate legal terminology in your CV and cover letter. This will not only demonstrate your knowledge but also show us that you’re comfortable with the language of the profession. Avoid jargon overload, though; clarity is key!
Show Your Availability:As this is a part-time position, don’t forget to clearly state your availability in your application. Let us know what days and hours you’re free to work, and make it easy for us to see how you’d fit into our team. The more specific, the better!
Tailor Your Cover Letter Just For Us:Your cover letter is a chance to shine! Make it personal and tailored specifically to our role at Thurrock Council. Talk about why you’re interested in legal services and how your experiences align with what we do. A sprinkle of passion goes a long way!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thurrock Council
✨Show Off Your Legal Knowledge
Brush up on key legal concepts and current events in the legal realm that may affect your role. Be ready to discuss any relevant case studies or examples, as this demonstrates your engagement with the law beyond just theoretical knowledge.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions where you might be assessed on how you'd handle specific legal situations. Think about practical examples from your studies or previous experiences that highlight your problem-solving skills and ethical considerations.
✨Balance Your Expertise with Flexibility
As this is a part-time role, be prepared to discuss your time management skills and how you can juggle work with your studies or other commitments. Employers will want to see how you can contribute effectively while maintaining a flexible schedule.
✨Highlight Your Commitment to Continuous Learning
Conveying your dedication to ongoing education in the legal field gives a strong impression. Mention any additional courses, certifications, or workshops you've pursued that enhance your legal expertise, showing your motivation for growth in your career.
