Permanent Senior Practitioner – Assessment Team

London Borough of Waltham Forest | Permanent | Up to £46,000 per annum
Hybrid – 3 Days per Week in the Office | Outstanding Ofsted Borough

The London Borough of Waltham Forest is seeking a committed and experienced Senior Practitioner to join their Assessment Team on a permanent basis. This is an exciting time to join an authority recently rated Outstanding by Ofsted, known for its stable workforce, clear practice framework, and excellent leadership.

This is a full-time position based on a hybrid model, with just three days per week required in the office. The team benefits from manageable caseloads, a supportive culture, and high standards of practice.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead on complex Child and Family Assessments
• Provide mentoring and guidance to less experienced social workers
• Chair strategy discussions and support effective safeguarding planning
• Ensure timely and quality interventions under s17 and s47
• Liaise closely with early help, health, education, and police partners
• Support decision-making in legal planning and pre-proceedings
• Contribute to reflective group supervision and continuous service development

Practice Model:

Waltham Forest works under the “Safe, Confident, and Secure” framework, promoting high-quality, consistent social work practice across all teams. The borough uses a relational and systemic approach, ensuring children’s voices are central to assessments and planning. Teams are small, well-supported, and focused on achieving the best possible outcomes.

Essential Requirements:

• Social Work England registration
• Strong experience in frontline children’s services, ideally in assessment or MASH
• Confidence in handling complex cases and leading practice discussions
• Knowledge of relevant legislation and statutory guidance
• Strong communication and assessment skills
• Ability to work effectively within a fast-paced, multi-agency environment

Benefits:

• Salary up to £46,000 per annum
• Hybrid working – 3 days per week in the office
• Stable management and clear progression structure
• Outstanding Ofsted-rated service
• Manageable caseloads and strong team culture

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Interested?
Contact Josh Da Costa at Sheldon Phillips:

Phone: 01635 226350
Email: jdacosta@sheldon-phillips.com

We offer up to £500 for successful referrals.