Locum Safeguarding Qualified Social Worker

Social Worker – Children’s Services

Brief Job Overview

 
We are seeking an experienced and dedicated Children’s Social Worker to join Lancashire County Council’s Children’s Services. This role requires a confident practitioner with extensive experience in Duty and Assessment, capable of delivering high-quality social work that safeguards and promotes the welfare of children and young people.  

You will be joining a supportive and forward-thinking local authority where professional development and reflective practice are valued. If you are motivated to make a difference and thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, this role offers an excellent opportunity to do just that.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake Child and Family Assessments under Section 17 and Section 47 of the Children Act 1989, identifying risks, needs, and strengths within families.
• Develop and implement child-centred care plans that promote safety, stability, and long-term positive outcomes.
• Respond to urgent safeguarding concerns as part of the Duty and Assessment Team, working collaboratively with multi-agency partners.
• Prepare clear, concise, and evidence-based reports for courts and child protection conferences within statutory timescales.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date case records in line with statutory and local recording standards.
• Build effective working relationships with children, young people, families, and professionals to achieve the best outcomes.
• Attend and contribute to case conferences, reviews, and multi-agency meetings, ensuring consistent professional representation.
• Use reflective practice to support continuous professional development and quality improvement.
• Work flexibly as part of a supportive, collaborative team committed to delivering excellent social work practice.

About You

 
You are a resilient, analytical, and compassionate Social Worker with a strong understanding of child protection, safeguarding, and early intervention frameworks. You thrive in high-pressure situations, balancing competing priorities while maintaining a child-centred approach.  

You are confident managing complex cases, making sound professional judgments, and communicating effectively with families and professionals alike. You will be joining a team that values teamwork, trust, and professional growth.

Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker registered with Social Work England.
• Minimum of 3 years’ post-ASYE experience within Children’s Services (essential).
• At least 2 years’ experience in Duty and Assessment (essential).
• Excellent knowledge of relevant legislation including the Children Act 1989 and Working Together to Safeguard Children 2018.
• Proven ability to assess risk and develop effective, outcome-focused intervention plans.
• Exceptional report writing, analysis, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage a varied caseload and work effectively under pressure.
• Commitment to professional development and reflective supervision.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multi-disciplinary team.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle for work purposes (preferred).

Contract & Salary

• Job Type: Locum
• Location: Lancashire County Council
• Service Area: Children’s Services – Duty and Assessment Team
• Contract Length: 3 months (with potential for extension)
• Salary: Negotiable, dependent on experience
• Working Hours: Full-time, 37 hours per week
• Working Pattern: Hybrid working available, with required in-office attendance for duty days

How to Apply

 
If you are an experienced Children’s Social Worker with strong assessment and safeguarding skills and are looking to join a dedicated and supportive team, we’d love to hear from you.  
Please apply using the form on the page.