Social Worker; Level 2 & 3 - PLO & Court Teams

Social Workers (Level 2 & 3) – PLO & Court Teams

Location: Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole (BCP), Dorset

Salary: Competitive + Local Government Pension + Potential Relocation Scheme

Contract: Full-time & Part-Time, Permanent

Our specialist PLO & Court Teams work with families where concerns have reached the threshold for pre‑proceedings. Families are presented at Legal Gateway Panel to assess the threshold and devise a plan of support. If met, a formal PLO meeting with legal representation is held to collaborate on an action plan to reduce risks to the child(ren).

You will work closely with families to address needs and risks, supporting them with issues such as domestic abuse, adult mental health, and substance misuse. We also work with the Parental Substance Misuse Court (PSMC). Issuing care proceedings is always the last resort – the PLO process represents a genuine opportunity to work collaboratively with families to avoid court where possible.

There is a strong emphasis on securing permanency for children and exploring family support networks to reduce risk and increase safety. For children who require permanency outside the home, you will work jointly with the Children in Care Team or Aspire Adoption Team to ensure smooth transitions.

• Significant experience in frontline safeguarding social work
• Ability to manage complex referrals and casework
• Strong analytical, decision‑making, and conflict resolution skills
• Experience mentoring less experienced staff or students
• Commitment to continuous professional development
• Willingness to undertake Practice Education training if not already qualified
• Ability to travel across the BCP area

• Full induction & Practice Fundamentals support
• Clear career progression & excellent learning opportunities
• Manageable caseloads & regular supervision
• 28 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)
• Flexible working arrangements in refurbished offices
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Relocation Scheme
• Staff network groups

Pay Range: £44,075‑£53,460 (pro rata for part‑time colleagues). All new starters will begin at the bottom of the pay band to promote fairness and consistency.

Visa Sponsorship: This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship; we can only consider applicants with an existing right to work in the UK.

Disability: Applicants will be required to complete the appropriate level of Disclosure & Barring Service Check. Please refer to the Job Description or Role Profile for more details.