4 Month Contract with A Local Authority

Job Purpose

The Principal Officer (Child Protection Chair) is responsible for leading and chairing multi-agency Child Protection Conferences to safeguard vulnerable children and young people. The role ensures that child protection planning is effective, child-focused, and underpinned by a strengths-based, relationship-focused, and trauma-informed approach. The post holder will promote participation from children, families, and partner agencies while driving high standards of practice, performance, and decision-making to improve outcomes for children and families.

Key Responsibilities

• Chair multi-agency Child Protection Conferences and ensure effective safeguarding plans are developed and reviewed.
• Ensure the child’s voice, lived experience, and participation are central to all decision-making and safety planning.
• Facilitate collaborative working between families, social care professionals, and partner agencies to achieve positive outcomes.
• Apply the Strengthening Families approach to support engagement and co-production with children and parents.
• Monitor and evaluate the quality and effectiveness of child protection plans and interventions.
• Provide professional challenge where necessary to ensure statutory responsibilities and safeguarding standards are met.
• Support the continuous improvement of practice and performance through quality assurance, reflection, and learning.
• Promote and model relationship-based and trauma-informed practice across safeguarding processes.
• Maintain accurate records, reports, and documentation in line with statutory requirements and organizational standards.
• Contribute to the development of a positive learning culture, supporting professional accountability and continuous improvement.