Social Worker – Safeguarding Service – Lewisham Council

£39.04 per hour
Hybrid working – 3 days per week in the office
Work within a supportive and fast-paced Safeguarding Service
Manage complex child protection and safeguarding cases
Excellent management support and long-term development opportunities
Opportunity to make a genuine difference to vulnerable children and families

Are you an experienced Social Worker looking for your next opportunity within a dynamic Safeguarding Service? We are currently working with Lewisham Council to recruit a passionate and committed Social Worker to join their frontline safeguarding team.

This is an excellent opportunity to work within a progressive local authority that is committed to delivering outstanding services for children and families. You will play a key role in supporting children subject to Child Protection Plans, Children in Need Plans, and Public Law Outline processes, while working closely with multi-agency partners to achieve positive outcomes.

About the Local Authority

Lewisham Council is recognised for its child-centred approach, strong management structure, and commitment to continuous improvement across Children’s Services. The service promotes a collaborative and supportive culture where practitioners are encouraged to develop professionally while maintaining a healthy work-life balance through flexible hybrid working arrangements.

Key Responsibilities

Holding and managing a complex caseload involving safeguarding and child protection work
Completing statutory visits, assessments, and risk analyses within agreed timescales
Undertaking Section 47 investigations and progressing cases through Child Protection procedures
Preparing high-quality court statements, reports, and care plans where required
Working closely with schools, health professionals, police, and partner agencies to safeguard children
Attending strategy meetings, core groups, child protection conferences, and legal meetings
Building effective relationships with children and families to promote long-term positive outcomes
Ensuring all case recordings and documentation are maintained to a high professional standard

Candidate Requirements

Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification
Registered with Social Work England
Previous experience within a Children’s Safeguarding or Child Protection team
Strong assessment, report writing, and court work experience
Sound knowledge of relevant legislation, statutory guidance, and safeguarding procedures
Ability to work effectively within a fast-paced frontline environment
Enhanced DBS on the Update Service preferred