Social Worker - Private Law

Job Title: Social Worker - Private Law

Hours: 37 Hours per Week

Location: Wildwood

Team: Permanency Planning and Support Team

Employment Type: Permanent

Worcestershire County Council is seeking skilled, child‑focused Social Workers to join the rollout of the Pathfinder model in Worcestershire. This pioneering approach to private law family court cases places the child’s voice at the centre of every decision, aiming to resolve disputes earlier and more constructively.

As a Social Worker on this team, you will complete Child Impact Reports before the first hearing, helping courts and families understand the child’s needs from the outset, reducing delays and conflict. You will work collaboratively with domestic abuse services and other agencies, contributing to a forward‑thinking and supportive environment.

• Passionate about improving outcomes for children, especially those affected by parental separation and conflict.
• Confident in engaging with families during emotionally charged situations, with empathy and professionalism.
• Skilled in assessment and report writing, able to produce clear, focused Child Impact Reports that inform court decisions.
• Collaborative and proactive, working closely with domestic abuse services and partner agencies.
• Committed to safeguarding, with a strong understanding of trauma‑informed practice and the impact of separation and conflict on children.
• Capable of producing good quality Child Impact Reports and s37s in line with national Pathfinder guidance.
• Work directly with children, parents and carers to understand their experiences, wishes and feelings.
• Liaise effectively with Cafcass, the Family Court and partner agencies to support safe and timely outcomes.
• Provide clear, evidence‑based analysis and recommendations to assist the court and families in decision‑making.
• Maintain accurate and timely case records in accordance with statutory requirements and local policy.
• Contribute to service learning and development as part of a reflective and supportive team environment.
• Have a strong understanding of private law work, including the types of orders the court may make, and how these impact children and families.

Experience of court work (public or private law) is highly desirable, but full training and professional support will be provided.

• Work within a supportive, reflective and forward‑thinking environment.
• Access high‑quality training, supervision and development opportunities.
• Enjoy flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
• Join a service that values innovation, professional integrity and puts children first.

• Great Holiday Entitlement: 26 days paid holiday (pro‑rata for part‑time staff) increasing to 31 days after 5 years. If you join us without a break, we will match your holiday up to 31 days.
• Brilliant Pension Scheme:
  Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), a nationwide, career‑average pension scheme.
• Professional Learning & Development:
  Encouraged learning and development for all staff, facilitating progression and exploration of other areas within the organisation.
• Flexible Working:
  Hybrid working to provide a better work/life balance where possible.

This post is exempt under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Appointment will be conditional upon the receipt of a satisfactory result from a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, including details of cautions, reprimands, final warnings, and convictions. The County Council is committed to safeguarding service users in our care.

The County Council is committed to equality of opportunity for all citizens and celebrates the diversity of all its residents.

13th March 2026

Children's Social Worker JD PS.pdf