Children’s Social Workers – Level 2/3 – PLO and Court Team
Salary Band 10 – £44,075, Band 11 – £48,226
Social Workers (Level 2 & 3) – PLO & Court Teams
Location: Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole (BCP), Dorset
Salary: Competitive + Local Government Pension + Potential Relocation Scheme
Contract: Full-time & Part-Time, Permanent
About the Role
Our two specialist PLO & Court Teams work with families where concerns have reached the threshold for pre-proceedings. Families are presented at Legal Gateway Panel to consider if the threshold is met and to devise a plan of support. If so, the family is invited to a formal PLO meeting with legal representation to collaborate on an action plan to reduce risks to the child(ren).
You will work closely with families to address needs and risks, supporting them with issues such as domestic abuse, adult mental health, and substance misuse. We also work with the Parental Substance Misuse Court (PSMC). Issuing care proceedings is always the last resort – the PLO process represents a genuine opportunity to work collaboratively with families to avoid court where possible.
There is a strong emphasis on securing permanency for children and exploring family support networks to reduce risk and increase safety. For children who require permanency outside the home, you’ll work jointly with the Children in Care Team or Aspire Adoption Team to ensure smooth transitions.
What We’re Looking For
- Significant experience in frontline safeguarding social work
- Ability to manage complex referrals and casework
- Strong analytical, decision‑making, and conflict resolution skills
- Experience mentoring less experienced staff or students
- Commitment to continuous professional development
- Willingness to undertake Practice Education training if not already qualified
- Willingness to travel across the BCP area
What We Offer
- Full induction & Practice Fundamentals support
- Clear career progression & excellent learning opportunities
- Manageable caseloads & regular supervision
- 28 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)
- Flexible working arrangements in refurbished offices
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Relocation Scheme
- Staff network groups
We are looking for reflective, proactive, resilient, and passionate individuals.
Right to work: This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship and we can only consider applicants with existing right to work in the UK.
The pay range for this role is £44,075–£53,460 (pro rata for part‑time colleagues). All new starters will begin at the bottom of the pay band.
DBS: Applicants will be required to complete the appropriate level of Disclosure & Barring Service Check.
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