Childrens Services - Senior Practitioner Role

Childrens Services - Senior Practitioner Role

21HSC is hiring a Senior Practitioner for Childrens Services on a 6-month contract basis

Location:Edinburgh
Working Hours: 36 hours per week (Mon-Thurs 9:00 AM 5:00 PM, Fri 9:00 AM 4:00 PM)
Assignment Length: 6 months
Driver preference: Drivers preferred due to city-wide coverage

Role Overview:
21HSC is seeking an experienced Senior Practitioner to join the Childrens Services team. The Senior Practitioner will play a pivotal role in managing Initial Referral Discussions (IRDs) for unallocated children across the city, assessing risk and need, and coordinating necessary services to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable children. This role requires strong decision-making, assessment skills, and the ability to collaborate with multiple agencies to create safe and effective plans for children at risk.

Key Responsibilities:

• Undertake initial assessments for children subject to IRDs, assessing risk, need, and determining whether additional services are required, including referrals to other teams or external agencies/third-sector organisations.
• Write comprehensive assessment reports, ensuring clear and accurate chronologies are updated.
• Organise and manage Child Protection Planning Meetings (CPPMs), including conducting CP visits, safety planning, and report writing.
• Some cases may require alternative care measures via Section 25 or Child Protection Orders (CPO), so the ability to discuss high-risk cases with families and negotiate safe, suitable care plans is essential.
• Provide ongoing support to children and families, ensuring necessary services are delivered effectively and in a timely manner.

Experience and Qualifications:

• Extensive experience in managing child protection cases within a statutory children and families team.
• In-depth knowledge of statutory child protection procedures, including IRDs, CPPMs, and safety planning.
• Proven experience in writing detailed assessment reports and updating chronologies in line with statutory requirements.
• Ability to work confidently with families in high-risk situations, negotiating and facilitating safety plans where necessary.
• Strong collaborative skills, with experience of working effectively with other professionals, including social work colleagues, health services, police, and third-sector organisations.

To Apply:
To apply, follow the Apply Now link at the bottom of this job advert and submit your up-to-date CV. For further information or a confidential discussion, please contact Danielle Frame/ Sean Carruthers at 21HSC.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a face-to-face or Teams interview. All applicants will undergo a thorough vetting process, including a Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) check, referencing, and SSSC registration check/endorsement.

About

21 Health and Social Care is a consultancy firm offering a range of employment positions within Social Work, Voluntary, Health & Social Care sectors across Scotland. With over 20 years experience working with the Scottish Market we have some of the best opportunities, complemented by unparalleled ongoing support and guidance throughout your journey with us. 21 HSC is run by Qualified Social Workers and Social Care professionals and is a registered employer with the SSSC.

21 HSC limited is an equal opportunities employer.