Child Protection Lead Practitioner

Embark on the next step of your Social Work career with a transformative role in Child Protection. As part of a network of Lead Practitioners, you'll be guided by strategic leadership and united by a shared commitment to achieving positive outcomes for children and families across Hampshire. We're proud to be part of a select group of local authorities recognised by Ofsted as Outstanding for the quality and impact of our children's services. This is a fantastic opportunity to enhance your professional practice, mentor and collaborate with colleagues, and actively shape a culture of learning and continuous development. What you'll do:

• Take charge of a diverse caseload of complex child protection cases, ensuring families receive the right interventions and support.
• Offer expert guidance and mentorship to colleagues, enhancing their professional growth and boosting team effectiveness.
• Confidently chair meetings and engage with a wide range of stakeholders to advocate for the needs of children and families.
• Collaborate with external partners, including various agencies and stakeholders, to provide comprehensive support for families.
• Champion reflective practice and contribute to service development and innovation.
  
  Qualified Social Worker registered with Social Work England (SWE).
• Significant experience working with children and families in a UK-based statutory social work setting, with a strong focus on child protection and safeguarding.
• Proven ability to manage complex child protection cases and deliver effective interventions.
• Proven experience in mentoring and supporting less experienced practitioners whilst role modelling best practice.
• Strong understanding of safeguarding and in-depth knowledge of the legal frameworks and professional issues underpinning child protection and social work practice.
• Highly skilled in building trust and engaging with families. Able to listen, negotiate, and engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures.
  
  Outstanding support: Regular, reflective supervision and a culture that values your voice.
• Flexible working: Including a 9-day fortnight and hybrid options to support work-life balance.
• Career development: 5 personal development days per year and access to excellent learning opportunities through our DfE 'Partner in Practice' initiative.
• Back-office support: Dedicated business support team to free up your time for frontline work.
• Relocation assistance: Up to £8,500 available for experienced UK-based Social Workers relocating to Hampshire (subject to management approval).
• Wellbeing support: Access to Health Assured's comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme to support your physical and mental wellbeing, including 24/7 telephone support, a suite of online resources, and legal and financial advice.
• Competitive benefits package: Generous annual leave, occupational sick pay, and access to the Local Government Pension Scheme.