Social Worker – Child Protection and Children in Need
Location: London Borough of Waltham Forest
Team: Children’s Services – Child Protection and Children in Need
Contract Type: Permanent, Full-Time
Salary: £41,133 – £52,194 per annum (DOE)
Retention Bonus: £2,000 per annum
Sponsorship: Not available for this position
Introduction
Waltham Forest Council is seeking experienced and motivated Social Workers to join the Child Protection and Children in Need Team.
This is an exciting opportunity to join a progressive borough that values relationship-based practice and is committed to providing high-quality services for children and families. The successful candidates will manage complex cases, work collaboratively with partners, and ensure that children’s safety, wellbeing, and outcomes remain at the heart of every decision.
Waltham Forest offers a supportive working environment, manageable caseloads, and a competitive salary of £41,133 – £52,194, plus a £2,000 retention bonus in recognition of your commitment to the service.
About the Role
As a Social Worker within the Child Protection and Children in Need Team, you will manage a varied caseload of children and families requiring statutory intervention. You will work under the Children Act 1989 and related legislation to assess risk, develop child-focused plans, and ensure safeguarding and support are delivered effectively.
You’ll work alongside dedicated managers and partner agencies in a supportive, collaborative environment that promotes reflective supervision, continuous development, and professional autonomy.
Key Responsibilities
- Undertake Child and Family Assessments in line with statutory frameworks and local procedures.
- Manage cases under Child in Need, Child Protection, and PLO processes.
- Lead Section 47 enquiries and attend child protection conferences, core groups, and legal planning meetings.
- Develop and implement Child in Need and Child Protection Plans, ensuring timely reviews and measurable progress.
- Prepare clear, analytical reports for conferences, reviews, and court proceedings.
- Work directly with children and families to build trusting relationships and support positive change.
- Liaise and collaborate effectively with partner agencies to ensure coordinated safeguarding responses.
- Participate in reflective supervision and contribute to service improvement initiatives.
Candidate Requirements
Essential:
- Qualified Social Worker with Social Work England registration
- Minimum of 3 years’ post-qualified experience in statutory Children’s Services
- Strong understanding of Child Protection, Child in Need, and Care Proceedings work
- Excellent assessment, analytical, and communication skills
- Proven ability to manage a demanding and varied caseload effectively
- Commitment to relationship-based, child-centred practice
Desirable:
- Experience working in a similar local authority safeguarding team
- Familiarity with Waltham Forest’s practice framework and electronic recording systems
Please note: This position is not offering sponsorship and requires existing right to work in the UK.
Why Work With Waltham Forest?
- Competitive salary of £41,133 – £52,194
- Annual £2,000 retention bonus
- Manageable caseloads and strong administrative support
- Reflective supervision and professional development opportunities
- Flexible hybrid working model
- Stable and supportive management team
- Commitment to equality, inclusion, and professional growth