Advanced Practitioner

Description:

Bedfordshire Youth Justice Service at Bedford Borough Council is seeking a dedicated and dynamic Advanced Social Work Practitioner/Advanced Practitioner to join its leadership team. This position plays a crucial role in safeguarding children and promoting best practices through the Child First Principles, contributing to the continuous improvement and future direction of the service.

The successful candidate will help lead the delivery of high-quality social work interventions, support professional development within the team, and ensure the service consistently meets statutory and policy standards. The role demands a blend of strategic thinking, practical experience, and a commitment to improving outcomes for vulnerable children and young people.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide leadership and professional guidance within the Youth Justice Service team

• Ensure effective child safeguarding measures are implemented and maintained

• Champion evidence-based practice and continuous improvement across the service

• Support and mentor other practitioners, contributing to workforce development

• Contribute to strategic decision-making and operational planning

• Foster collaboration with multi-agency partners and community stakeholders

• Ensure compliance with local authority policies, national legislation, and professional standards

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Recognised Social Work qualification and registration with Social Work England

• Demonstrated experience in advanced or senior social work roles

• Strong understanding of child safeguarding, youth justice, and family intervention frameworks

• Excellent communication, leadership, and case management skills

• Ability to work collaboratively across multi-disciplinary teams

• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion in practice

Additional Information:

• Salary Grade: BBU12 plus market rate supplement (£4600 per annum, subject to review)

• Welcome & Retention Payments: Available and subject to review

• Closing Date: 21st November 2025

• Interview Date: 10th December 2025

• Visa Sponsorship: Available for UK-based candidates (Council holds a sponsorship licence)

• Enhanced DBS Check: Required for this position