Senior Practitioner - Looked After Children

Senior Practioner / Qualified Social Worker – Looked After Children (0–16) – Croydon Council

  • Grade 11–14: £46,968 – £55,323 per annum
  • Permanent – 36 hours per week
  • Hybrid working – 3 days in the office
  • Work with children and young people aged 0–16
  • Interviews will not commence until 1st September

Croydon Council is seeking an Advanced Social Worker or Qualified Social Worker to join their Looked after Children Service, supporting children and young people aged 0–16. This permanent role offers a competitive salary, structured career development, and the opportunity to work in a service committed to stability, high-quality care, and achieving positive long-term outcomes for children in care.

About Croydon Council

Croydon is one of London’s most diverse and vibrant boroughs, with a strong commitment to improving the lives of children and families. The Council has invested heavily in training, reflective supervision, and innovative practice models to ensure staff are supported and empowered to deliver exceptional social work. The Looked After Children’s Service in Croydon works closely with foster carers, partner agencies, and young people themselves to promote safety, stability, and aspiration.

Key Responsibilities

  • Hold and manage a caseload of Looked After Children aged 0–16
  • Undertake statutory visits, assessments, and care planning
  • Prepare and present reports for court and statutory reviews
  • Work collaboratively with foster carers, schools, and health professionals
  • Support permanence planning, including adoption and long-term fostering
  • Provide guidance and mentoring to less experienced colleagues when required

Candidate Requirements

  • Social Work England registration
  • Substantial post-qualified experience in children’s services, ideally LAC
  • Sound knowledge of relevant legislation, including the Children Act 1989
  • Commitment to relationship-based, strengths-focused practice
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Enhanced DBS on the update service (or willingness to complete one)

Why Work With Croydon?

  • £46,968 – £55,323 per annum
  • Permanent contract – 36 hours per week
  • Hybrid model with 3 days in the office for effective collaboration
  • Supportive and innovative management team
  • Clear career progression and professional development opportunities
  • Stable team culture with a focus on quality outcomes
  • Please note: Interviews will not commence until 1st September

Contact Details:
For more information or to apply, contact: Josh Dhumisani
Mobile: 07902371315
Email: jdhumisani@sheldon-phillips.com