Lead Child Protection Practitioner

Overview

In this role you will lead expert practice in child protection, advising practitioners across a multi‑agency partnership to safeguard children. You will work within Dudley’s restorative and family‑safeguarding approach, supporting families where significant harm is identified. You will engage in strategy discussions, section 47 inquiries, and protection planning, while promoting family group decision making. This is an opportunity to shape practice and outcomes for children, young people and families at scale within a supportive council.

Responsibilities

• Act as an expert in child protection and advise practitioners across the multi‑agency partnership
• Provide consultation and guidance during significant harm cases
• Involve in strategy meetings, Section 47 enquiries, and children on child protection plans
• Support families when significant harm is identified
• Encourage family group decision making and challenge across the multi‑agency group
• Contribute to a restorative, family‑centred safeguarding approach

Key requirements

• Qualified social worker
• Knowledge of child abuse factors, risks, and consequences
• Ability to provide expert advice across multi‑agency partnerships
• Social Work England registered
• DBS check required
• Experience with strategy meetings and child protection processes

• Strong communication and advisory skills
• Collaborative, partnership‑oriented mindset
• Ability to build trusting relationships with families
• Expertise in child protection practice
• Experience with strategy meetings and section 47 inquiries
• Knowledge of child protection plans and family group decision making

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