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An experienced and motivated Children’s Team Manager is required to lead a Children, Young People and Families (CYPF) social work team in Plymouth. This is an opportunity to provide effective professional leadership while helping to achieve positive outcomes for children, young people and their families.

You will manage, support and develop a team of qualified social workers, ensuring that practice is child-centred, strengths-based and focused on safeguarding, permanence and improved life chances. You will provide regular supervision, reflective support and performance management, promoting high standards of social work practice and professional accountability.

Key responsibilities will include overseeing assessments, care planning and reviews; ensuring that statutory duties are completed within required timescales; managing complex cases and safeguarding concerns; and providing guidance on court proceedings, placement decisions and permanence planning. You will work collaboratively with partner agencies, including education, health, police and commissioned services, to ensure coordinated support for children and families.

The successful candidate will hold a recognised social work qualification and current registration with Social Work England. You will have substantial post-qualification experience in children’s social care, including experience of supervising or managing social work staff and working with children subject to child protection, care proceedings or looked-after arrangements.

You will need a sound understanding of relevant legislation, statutory guidance and safeguarding procedures, alongside strong analytical, organisational and decision-making skills. Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities are essential, as is the confidence to challenge practice appropriately and make timely, evidence-based decisions.

This role would suit a resilient and compassionate leader who is committed to continuous improvement and able to motivate colleagues in a demanding environment. A proactive approach, strong partnership-working skills and a clear focus on the safety and wellbeing of children and young people are essential. A satisfactory enhanced DBS check and appropriate employment references will be required.