Children's social worker

CV-LibraryMacclesfieldcontractPosted: 20 April 2026
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Cheshire East Council

Location: Hybrid – Base at Macclesfield Town Hall

Team: Children’s Social Care (Child in Need & Child Protection)

Role Purpose

Cheshire East Council is seeking an experienced and committed Social Worker to join our Children in Need (CIN) and Child Protection (CP) team. The role involves working with children, young people, and families to assess needs, reduce risk, and ensure the safety and wellbeing of vulnerable children across the borough.

You will hold a complex caseload of CIN and CP cases, working within statutory frameworks to deliver high-quality, relationship-based social work practice.

Key Responsibilities

Undertake comprehensive assessments under Section 17 (Children in Need) and Section 47 (Child Protection) of the Children Act 1989

Manage a caseload of CIN and CP cases, ensuring timely intervention and robust planning

Develop and implement child protection plans and care plans in line with statutory guidance

Work closely with families to identify strengths, reduce risks, and promote positive outcomes for children

Attend and contribute to strategy meetings, child protection conferences, court proceedings, and multi-agency meetings

Produce high-quality written reports, assessments, and court statements within required timescales

Liaise effectively with partner agencies including health, education, police, and voluntary services

Ensure all practice is compliant with safeguarding procedures, legislation, and local authority policies

Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records on the electronic case management system

Requirements

Qualified Social Worker with Social Work England registration

Minimum of 2 years post-qualified experience in statutory children’s services (CIN/CP essential)

Strong knowledge of relevant legislation, including Children Act 1989 & 2004, Working Together to Safeguard Children

Experience of court work and care proceedings

Ability to manage a complex caseload and prioritise effectively

Excellent communication, report writing, and analytical skills

Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children

Desirable Experience

Experience working within a local authority CIN/CP team

Court attendance and giving evidence in care proceedings

Use of case management systems such as Liquidlogic or similar

Experience working in a hybrid or agile working environment

Working Arrangements

Hybrid working model (office-based attendance required at Macclesfield Town Hall and remote working)

Attendance required for team meetings, supervision, and statutory meetings

Flexible working supported in line with service needs

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