Lewisham is proud to be the UK’s first Borough of Sanctuary and a wave 2 Pathfinder authority, leading on national reforms through the Families First for Children programme. Our borough is vibrant, diverse, and ambitious for every child.

We’re currently looking for experienced, ambitious, and dynamic Lead Child Protection Practitioners (Advanced Practitioners) to join our newly formed Multi-Agency Child Protection Teams (CPT) and Adolescent Protection Teams (APT).

The role

This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking, multi-agency service that supports children and families facing complex challenges both inside and outside the home.

As a Lead Child Protection Practitioner, you will:

• Lead on complex child protection investigations, S47 enquiries, and multi-agency meetings.
• Chair strategy discussions and child protection conferences.
• Provide professional guidance and quality assurance within a high-performing team.
• Support the implementation of the Signs of Safety model in everyday practice.

You’ll work alongside Family Help practitioners, legal colleagues, health and education professionals, and police partners to ensure the safety and wellbeing of children at risk of intra- and extra-familial harm.

About You

You are a qualified and SWE-registered social worker with:

• Substantial post-qualifying experience in statutory children’s services.
• Expert knowledge of child protection legislation and current practice.
• Strong analytical and risk assessment skills.
• Leadership ability and a commitment to continuous professional development.

Knowledge of the Signs of Safety practice framework and experience with the DfE Families First for Children reform agenda will be advantageous.