Senior Practitioner – Referral & Assessment – London Borough of Bexley

Job Description

Senior Practitioner – Referral & Assessment – London Borough of Bexley

The London Borough of Bexley is looking for an experienced Senior Practitioner to join its dynamic Referral & Assessment (R&A) Team. This key role focuses on safeguarding children by undertaking timely and thorough statutory assessments following referrals into children’s services.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage complex cases within the Referral & Assessment pathway, completing Section 17 and Section 47 assessments.
• Work closely with families, partner agencies, and professionals to ensure children are safeguarded and their needs are identified early.
• Provide mentoring and support to less experienced social workers within the team.
• Make clear, evidence-based decisions on thresholds for intervention and risk management.
• Work collaboratively with the MASH, Child Protection, and Family Support services for seamless case progression.

Essential Requirements:

• Qualified Social Worker (QSW) with Social Work England registration.
• Extensive experience working within a Referral & Assessment or frontline safeguarding team.
• Strong knowledge of child protection legislation and statutory guidance.
• Proven ability to manage high-risk and complex assessments in a fast-paced environment.
• Skilled in multi-agency working, decision making, and reflective practice.

Additional Information:

• Location: Bexley Civic Offices (hybrid working model).
• Full-time: 36 hours per week (Monday to Friday, 09:00 – 17:30).
• Inside IR35.

Ardent Social is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. We welcome applications from all backgrounds regardless of race, gender, disability, age, religion, or sexual orientation.