Social Worker - Children in Care Court Team

About the Role

As a Children's Social Worker at Northamptonshire Children's Trust, you will join a supportive learning culture where you are empowered to influence change, challenge practice, and share your expertise.

Our Children in Care Teams provide oversight for all children in care across Northamptonshire. This includes children subject to legal proceedings as well as those with long-term care plans. We are committed to building meaningful relationships with children, young people, their families, and carers to ensure the best possible outcomes and stable futures.

This is a fast-paced and rewarding role where you will work collaboratively with colleagues in the Leaving Care Service and external partners to deliver positive change for children and families.

Key Responsibilities

Manage a caseload of children in care, including those in legal proceedings and long-term placements
Undertake clear, analytical assessments to inform care planning and decision-making
Develop, implement, and regularly review care plans that focus on permanence and stability
Build and maintain strong, meaningful relationships with children, families, and carers
Lead and contribute to multi-agency planning and interventions
Prepare high-quality court reports and attend hearings independently where required
Work closely with Leaving Care Services to ensure smooth transitions into adulthood
Participate in reviews, planning meetings, and statutory visits in line with legislation and policy
Maintain accurate, up-to-date, and timely case recordings and documentation
Contribute to achieving positive outcomes in a busy and dynamic service environment

About You

You will be an experienced, qualified and registered Social Worker who has completed your ASYE, with a strong commitment to delivering high-quality support to children, young people, and families.

Confident and experienced in court work, including attending hearings independently
Passionate about delivering best practice in children in care services
Skilled at building strength-based relationships with a diverse range of families
A strong communicator who works effectively with multi-agency partners
Confident in your analysis, judgement, and decision-making
Organised and resilient, with the ability to work in a fast-paced environment

Benefits

We value our workforce and are committed to developing a skilled, supported, and innovative team. Our benefits include:

Social Work England registration paid annually
£6,000 Recruitment Welcome Bonus
Relocation support of up to £8,000
Retention bonus payments for established staff
28 days annual leave + 8 Bank Holidays (pro rata) + 5 additional days after 5 years
Local Government Pension Scheme with life cover (3x salary) and ill-health protection
Option to purchase up to 25 additional leave days
Employee Assistance Programme (24/7 support for you and your family)
Discounts with local and national retailers, travel, and leisure
Flexible and family-friendly working arrangements, including enhanced maternity benefits
Subsidised town centre parking
Extensive learning, development, and career progression opportunities
Supportive, inclusive leadership with autonomy to make professional decisions

If you are passionate about making a difference and want to be part of a forward-thinking Children in Care service, we would love to hear from you
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed