Experienced Children's Social Worker - Court & PLO
Poole, England, United Kingdom Temporary QSW childrens services, Adoption and fostering, Children and families, Young people and leaving care, CAMHS, Children and disabilities, Probation and youth offending
We're working with a 'Good' Local Authority looking for experienced Children's Social Workers to join their Court & PLO teams.
This is a long-term locum opportunity where you'll pick up cases at the PLO stage and see them through care proceedings to placement order - offering strong continuity and the chance to make a genuine long-term impact for children and families.
✅ What's on Offer:
- Up to £40.58 per hour
- Full-time contract
- Manageable caseloads
- Monthly supervision as standard
- High morale, supportive team environment
- Part of a stable, "Good" rated Local Authority
📍 Key Requirements:
- Minimum 3 years' PQE within a UK statutory Children's Social Work role (DFE compliant)
- Strong experience within Court work / PLO / Care Proceedings
- Able to commit to 3 days per week office-based
- Essential car user - access to your own vehicle is required
- Ideally locally based or within a commutable distance
⚠️ Please note: candidates must be able to meet the office-based requirement and car user criteria.
🧩 The Role:
- Manage cases from point of PLO through to final hearing
- Complete court reports, assessments, and care planning
- Work closely with legal teams, CAFCASS, and partner agencies
- Drive permanency planning and best outcomes for children
This is a great opportunity for experienced practitioners who enjoy focused, purposeful court work within a well-supported team.
🤝 Why Work With Me - Davina Cripps (Caritas Recruitment)
Recruitment should feel straightforward, honest and supportive - not transactional.
I've been in recruitment for 23 years (3 within Social Work) and I focus on getting the right fit, not just filling roles.
What you can expect:
- ✔️ Honest advice & clear communication throughout
- ✔️ Real insight into teams, managers & workloads
- ✔️ No pressure - I'll never push you into the wrong role
- ✔️ Ongoing support before, during and after placement
I work closely with Social Workers across the UK and genuinely see my role as championing you and your career, not just placing CVs.
🌐 Why Caritas?
Caritas is a trusted, long-standing Social Work agency, known for:
- Strong local authority relationships
- High compliance and standards
- Access to roles not widely advertised
📩 Interested?
If you're an experienced Court/PLO Social Worker looking for a stable, well-supported long-term contract, I'd love to speak with you.
📧 Get in touch for a confidential chat and full details - [email protected] / 07385 031109.
Caritas Recruitment is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.