Experienced Social Worker - Assessment & Child Protection

Experienced Social Worker - Assessment & Child Protection

Swindon, United Kingdom Posted on 15/10/2026

Job Description Experienced Social Worker - Assessment & Child Protection

Local Authority Locum Contract

Location: Swindon

Hours: Full Time

Working Pattern: Hybrid Working

Summary

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Social Worker to join a Local Authority's Assessment and Child Protection Team.

This role offers the opportunity to work within a supportive and forward-thinking service dedicated to safeguarding children and improving outcomes for vulnerable children, young people, and families. You will manage a complex caseload, undertake assessments, develop child-centred plans, and contribute to effective child protection and court work.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a complex and varied caseload within the Assessment and Child Protection Service.
• Undertake comprehensive assessments of need, risk, and harm.
• Work directly with children, young people, and families to improve outcomes and reduce risk.
• Identify and assess indicators of abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
• Develop and implement SMART, child-centred plans.
• Lead safeguarding and child protection interventions.
• Undertake statutory social work responsibilities in accordance with legislation and guidance.
• Prepare high-quality reports for Child Protection Conferences, Looked After Reviews, and court proceedings.
• Present evidence in Family Court and High Court proceedings where required.
• Work collaboratively with partner agencies, professionals, and stakeholders.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records and assessments.
• Promote positive outcomes through strengths-based and relationship-focused practice.
• Support and mentor less experienced practitioners and students where appropriate.

Requirements:

• Qualified Social Worker (Degree, DipSW, CQSW or equivalent).
• Current Social Work England registration.
• Significant experience within Children's Social Care.
• Experience in Assessment and Child Protection work.
• Strong safeguarding and risk assessment experience.
• Experience managing complex child protection cases.
• Experience preparing court reports and attending court proceedings.
• Strong assessment, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage competing priorities effectively.
• Postgraduate qualification in a relevant area.
• Practice Educator qualification or willingness to undertake training.
• Experience supervising or supporting Social Work students.
• Experience working within a Local Authority Child Protection Team.

What's on Offer?

• Full-Time Hours
• Hybrid Working
• Bi-Weekly Pay
• Supportive and experienced team environment
• Complex and rewarding caseload
• Opportunity to make a meaningful difference to children and families

Ideal for candidates with experience as a Social Worker, Child Protection Social Worker, Assessment Social Worker, Safeguarding Social Worker, Children's Social Worker, Senior Social Worker, Frontline Social Worker, or Advanced Practitioner.