Children's Social Worker - Court & Plo (locum) in Bournemouth, Dorset

Children’s Social Worker – Court & PLO (Locum)
Location: Bournemouth & Poole Area (Office-based requirement – minimum 3 days per week)
Pay Rate: £31.75 per hour PAYE | £40.60 per hour Umbrella
Contract: Temporary | Full-Time (37 hours per week)
Start Date: 01 June 2026
End Date: 31 August 2026

Seven Resourcing are currently recruiting for an experienced Children’s Social Worker to join a busy Court & PLO team within a well-established children’s services department in the Bournemouth & Poole area. This is a fantastic opportunity for a skilled practitioner who has strong experience in court work, pre-proceedings (PLO), and statutory children’s social care.

This role involves managing complex cases from the point of pre-proceedings through to court proceedings and placement order, ensuring the best possible outcomes for children and families. You will be working within a supportive team environment with manageable caseloads, regular supervision, and a strong focus on high-quality practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of complex children’s social care cases within Court & PLO processes
• Progress cases from pre-proceedings through to court proceedings and placement order
• Undertake assessments, care planning, and risk analysis in line with statutory requirements
• Prepare high-quality court reports, statements, and evidence
• Attend court hearings and contribute to legal planning meetings
• Work closely with families, foster carers, legal representatives, and partner agencies
• Ensure all interventions are child-focused, timely, and legally compliant
• Participate in regular supervision and contribute to team decision-making
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case recordings on electronic systems

Requirements

• Qualified Social Worker with current registration with Social Work England
• Minimum 3 years post-qualified experience within statutory children’s services
• Proven experience in Court Work and Pre-Proceedings (PLO)
• Strong understanding of child protection legislation, care proceedings, and safeguarding frameworks
• Ability to manage complex and high-risk caseloads effectively
• Excellent report writing, assessment, and analytical skills
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle (essential)

Working Arrangements

• Office-based minimum of 3 days per week (non-negotiable requirement)
• Full-time locum position (37 hours per week)
• Must be able to work flexibly within court deadlines and statutory timescales
• Essential car user status required due to travel demands within the service area

Working for Seven Resourcing:

Established in 2011, Seven Resourcing is one of the UK’s largest suppliers of temporary and ad-hoc professionals. Rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot from 3000+ reviews, and with 20+ major awards behind us, we take pride in knowing we can find you the best possible rates and a role you can be proud of.

Voceer presents this job opportunity for Sanctuary Personnel, a 1000 person sized company who are categorized as a Recruitment Agency.

This position is being managed by Sanctuary Personnel, a reputable recruitment agency known for placing candidates in desirable positions.