About the Role
We are seeking an experienced and dedicated Senior Practitioner to join a dynamic Family Help & Protection Team within Walsall Council. This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled Social Work professional who is passionate about safeguarding children, supporting families, and mentoring colleagues to deliver outstanding outcomes.
As a Senior Practitioner, you will play a key role in supporting vulnerable children and families, managing complex cases, and providing professional guidance within a supportive and collaborative team environment.
Location: Civic Centre, Walsall, WS1 1TP
Rate: £33.30 per hour (Umbrella rate)
Contract: Temporary - 12 months
Hours: 37 hours per week
Office Requirements: Hybrid Working (Minimum 3 Office Days Per Week)
Key Responsibilities
- Work collaboratively within a dedicated safeguarding team to assess risk, plan interventions, and protect children and families.
- Undertake complex casework across a range of statutory social work functions.
- Develop, implement, and review effective care and support plans that promote safety, wellbeing, and positive outcomes.
- Provide mentoring, support, and practice guidance to less experienced social workers and newly qualified staff.
- Build strong partnerships with internal teams, schools, health professionals, and external agencies to deliver coordinated support.
- Remain up to date with current legislation, policies, and best practice guidance to ensure high-quality service delivery.
- Contribute to team development and practice improvement initiatives.
- Casework Experience Required
About You
- Qualified Social Worker status with Social Work England registration.
- ASYE completed with at least 3 years' permanent experience as a statutory Children's Social Worker.
- A full UK Driving Licence and access to a vehicle.
- Strong knowledge of safeguarding legislation, statutory guidance, and child protection procedures.
- Experience of managing complex caseloads and court work.
- The ability to support and develop less experienced practitioners.
- Excellent assessment, communication, and partnership-working skills.
- Successful candidates should have experience across a broad range of children's social care responsibilities, including:
- Team Around the Family (TAF)
- Child Protection
- Court Proceedings
- Adoption Work
- Child in Need
- Safeguarding and Risk Assessment
We are looking for professionals who embody Walsall Council's core behaviours:
- Professionalism - embracing innovation, continuous improvement, and positive change.
- Accountability - taking ownership of decisions, actions, and professional development.
- Transparency - working collaboratively and sharing knowledge to achieve the best outcomes.
- Ethical Practice - treating everyone with dignity, respect, fairness, and integrity.
This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975. A DBS check may be applicable for this role, applicants are required to declare any cautions and convictions that are not protected under current filtering rules.
Apply today to join a committed Family Help & Protection team and help achieve positive outcomes for children and families when they need it most.
