Social Worker - Private Law

Social Worker - Private Law

Hours: 37 Hours per Week
Location: Wildwood
Team: Permanency Planning and Support Team
Employment Type: Permanent

Salary: £33,699 to £41,771 per annum, plus £4,000 annual market forces

Pursuing a pioneering approach to private law family court cases through the Pathfinder model, you will participate in a new transformative pilot in Worcestershire. The role involves preparing Child Impact Reports before the first hearing, collaborating with domestic abuse services, and supporting families to resolve disputes earlier and constructively. You will be part of a forward‑thinking team, shaping the future of family justice and making a lasting difference in children’s lives.

• Produce high‑quality Child Impact Reports and S37s following national Pathfinder guidance.
• Engage directly with children, parents and carers to understand their experiences, wishes and feelings.
• Collaborate with CAFACCS, the Family Court and partner agencies to support safe and timely outcomes.
• Provide clear, evidence‑based analysis and recommendations that inform court and family decision‑making.
• Maintain accurate and timely case records in line with statutory requirements and local policy.
• Contribute to service learning and development within a supportive team environment.
• Show a strong understanding of private law work, including the types of orders courts can make (Child Arrangements, Prohibited Steps, Specific Issue Orders) and their impact on children and families.
• Experience of court work (public or private law) is highly desirable, though full training and professional support will be provided.

• 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, producing clear, focused Child Impact Reports that inform court decisions.
• Collaborative and proactive, working closely with domestic abuse services and other agencies.
• Committed to safeguarding, with a strong understanding of trauma‑informed practice and the impact of separation and conflict on children.

• Supportive, reflective and forward‑thinking environment.
• High‑quality training, supervision and development opportunities.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
• Service that values innovation, professional integrity and putting children first.

• 26 days paid holiday (pro‑rata for part‑time staff), increasing to 31 days after five years of service.
• Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
• Professional learning and development encouragement.
• Hybrid working flexibility.
• Additional benefits as outlined on the council’s “Why work for us?” page.

Appointment is conditional upon a satisfactory DBS check. The County Council maintains a commitment 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.