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.