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Principal Social Worker

Location: Hendon, London

Salary: £45,000 - £48,000

Hours: Full-time, 9-5 with flexibility (office-based with potential for 1 day from home)

Holiday: 28 days

We are seeking an experienced and proactive Principal Social Worker to join our growing team. Reporting to the Centre Manager, you will work within an expanding unit, taking on a vital role that requires confidence, independence, and strong team collaboration. This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled social worker with a solid background in child protection and court work.

Must-Haves

Minimum 2 years’ experience in a similar role
Team-oriented yet able to work independently
Court experience is essential
Previous experience as a resident social workerKey Responsibilities

Assess the parenting capacity of families, providing guidance and supervision.
Prepare reports and maintain accurate records.
Attend court to give oral evidence as needed.
Develop and lead parenting sessions within the centre.
Supervise junior staff, including family support workers, student social workers, and contact workers; provide interim management support when required.
Review and assess referrals from Local Authorities, solicitors, and other parties, completing viability assessments and marketing services to Local Authorities.
Participate in pre-placement planning, LAC, disruption, and statutory review meetings for placed families; chair these meetings when required.
Adhere to professional and ethical standards.
Conduct regular staff reviews and supervisions in line with National Minimum Standards.
Manage a caseload, completing reports within set timelines.
Provide daily support to families and assist with centre maintenance and safety.
Ensure effective data management for families in line with Data Protection laws.
Stay informed on legislation relevant to residential family services (e.g., The Children Act, National Minimum Standards).
Maintain confidentiality in all work aspects, following the Data Protection Act.
Identify and implement improvements in service processes.
Liaise with senior managers to address general enquiries.
Generate reports and statistical data, meeting all timescales and deadlines.
Prioritise workload effectively and meet deadlines.
Attend training courses as directed by the line manager.
Maintain effective communication with colleagues, external agencies, and professionals (e.g., Social Workers, Guardians, solicitors, Police, Education, Health).
Support Directors in preparation for Ofsted inspections and fulfilling Commissioners’ requirements.
Perform other relevant duties as required.Perks of Joining

Friendly, close-knit team
Opportunities for professional development
Flexible, family-friendly working environmentFor more information, please call Emma at Minerva Recruitment on (phone number removed) option 2