Child Protection Chair 

Up until recently in Barnsley our Child Protection Chairs and Independent Reviewing Officers have been undertaking a dual role, chairing child protection conferences and looked after children’s meetings. We have taken a recent decision to trial the separation of these roles and are currently looking to recruit a part time child protection conference chair. The job description remains a dual role as this is a trial currently, however the recent separation of the roles has been positive so far.

This is an exciting opportunity to join Barnsley Children’s Safeguarding Service and have a key role in driving planning and promoting positive outcomes for our children and young people. We are looking for an enthusiastic, committed and experienced social worker who is passionate about the wellbeing of our vulnerable children to join our well established team of Child Protection Chairs.

You will be responsible for chairing Child Protection Conferences. Your primary focus will be to oversee and quality assure the planning and review process for each child. This involves understanding and promoting the child’s voice and driving plans that are aspirational for children. ensuring that planning for each child is of the highest standard

You will need substantial experience in statutory social work with children and families, of chairing complex meetings and of working within a multi agency framework. You will have a thorough working knowledge of the legal framework relating to child protection and looked after children, including Care Planning Regulations and the duties and responsibilities of the IRO as set out in the IRO Handbook.

You will join a very busy but supportive and committed team and play a full part in its operation of ensuring the effective safeguarding and promotion of the welfare of vulnerable children and young people in Barnsley. We are focussed on improving outcomes for children, developing ways to improve reviewing the plans for looked after children and managing child protection conferences.

You will receive regular supervision, appraisal, training and development opportunities, all aimed at promoting positive outcomes for children and supporting your career development and progression.

We have a lot to shout about here in Barnsley and are the very proud winners of both the MJ Local Authority of the Year and the LGC Council of the year award 2023.

We live and work by four important values: honesty, teamwork, excellent service, and taking pride in what we do. As part of our team, you can be assured we will support you in striving for excellence in your work. We prioritise learning and enabling you to achieve your potential. So we’ve created a development process that lets you grow in the way that suits you - whether that’s training to be a leader, or learning flexibly online.

For further information please contact Ella Barton, Service Manager Safeguarding   ellabarton@barnsley.gov.uk