Senior Practitioner – Children’s Social Work Team

About the role

Our client, Kent County Council in Folkestone, is seeking a Senior Practitioner to strengthen its Children’s Social Work Teams. The role involves managing high‑risk caseloads, providing expert guidance to social workers, and ensuring high‑quality practice across the service.

Key responsibilities

• Manage a complex caseload of high‑risk children and families, ensuring resources are used effectively.
• Provide professional social work expertise, including student supervision, chairing complex meetings, and fieldwork support.
• Attend court hearings to represent the team on high‑profile or sensitive cases.
• Act as Practice Assessor for student placements and ASYE practitioners.
• Mentor and coach social workers, supporting their professional development and practice quality.
• Collaborate with council colleagues to ensure consistent delivery of existing and new practices.
• Lead or contribute to working groups, multi‑agency forums, and service initiatives such as permanence planning and research.
• Keep the team updated on legislative changes and ensure timely implementation.

Required profile

• Qualified social worker with extensive experience in children’s services.
• Proven ability to manage complex, high‑risk cases.
• Experience in supervision, mentoring, and practice assessment.
• Strong communication skills for multi‑agency collaboration and court work.
• Commitment to continuous professional development and legislative awareness.

Required skills

What we offer

• Competitive hourly rate of £42.
• Personal one‑to‑one support from a dedicated consultant.
• Referral bonus of up to £250 per successful placement.
• Double payrolls each week for timely payment.
• Access to a reputable APSCo‑standard agency focused on safeguarding.