Care Proceedings Social Worker

Social Worker - Care Proceedings

Torbay Council Children's Services

About the Role

Torbay Council is seeking an experienced and motivated Care Proceedings Social Worker to join our specialist Children's Services team.

This role focuses on managing complex cases that are subject to Public Law Outline (PLO) and care proceedings, ensuring robust assessment, high-quality evidence, and timely permanence planning for children. You will work closely with legal services, courts, families, and partner agencies to achieve safe, stable, and timely outcomes for children.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of children subject to PLO and care proceedings

• Complete high-quality, evidence-based assessments and care plans

• Prepare and file court documents, including statements and care plans

• Attend court hearings and give professional evidence when required

• Work closely with legal services to progress cases within statutory timescales

• Undertake direct work with children and families to inform planning and permanence decisions

• Identify and assess risk, ensuring children's safety remains paramount

• Progress permanence planning, including reunification, special guardianship, or adoption

• Maintain accurate, timely, and analytical case records

What We're Looking For in a Care Proceedings Social Worker

Essential:

• Degree or recognised qualification in Social Work (BA / MA / DipSW)

• Registered with Social Work England

• Significant experience in statutory children's social work

• Proven experience of PLO and care proceedings

• Strong understanding of relevant legislation, case law, and statutory guidance

• Confidence in court work and providing oral and written evidence

• Excellent analytical, organisational, and communication skills

Desirable:

• Experience in a dedicated court or care proceedings team

• Knowledge of permanence planning and adoption processes

• Practice Educator or willingness to support student social workers

Why Join Torbay Council?

• A supportive and experienced legal and management structure

• Strong emphasis on quality, defensible practice and timely permanence

• Regular reflective supervision and professional support

• Ongoing training and development opportunities

• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements

• Local Government Pension Scheme

• Employee wellbeing and support services

If you are interested in this Care Proceedings Social Worker position, please contact