Children’s Social Care – Child Protection Chair

Job Description

About Sutton Borough

Sutton is a borough we are proud of—our residents report high satisfaction, our services are well-regarded, and our staff are engaged and motivated. We’ve effectively addressed financial challenges while maintaining strong community engagement on key local issues.

Looking ahead, Sutton continues to grow. New homes and schools are in development, and the London Cancer Hub is taking shape. As a key partner in the South London Partnership, we are driving strategic growth, regeneration, and investment across the region.

Our corporate plan, Ambitious for Sutton, outlines our vision to make Sutton an even better place to live, work, and raise a family.

With excellent transport links—just 30 minutes by train from central London—Sutton is well-connected and offers an exceptional quality of life.

About the Service and Team

At the London Borough of Sutton, we are committed to delivering high-quality frontline social work. Ofsted has recognised our uncompromising focus on improving outcomes for children and families.

We’re proud to be part of the Developing Together Social Work Teaching Partnership alongside Kingston University, which provides our staff with a rich mix of learning opportunities, including pre- and post-qualifying education, conferences, workshops, and access to research.

Children’s Social Care is undergoing a transformation to meet growing needs and improve outcomes. Led by committed and experienced professionals, we are building a positive, inclusive environment where children and staff can thrive.

About the Role: Child Protection Chair (12-Month Fixed-Term Contract)

We are looking for an experienced and motivated social work professional to join us as a Child Protection Chair. This is a key role in safeguarding and improving the lives of children in Sutton.

Salary and Benefits
Package up to £62,620 (subject to pay scale), including:

• £1,000 Golden Hello (paid with first month’s salary)
• £1,000 after year one
• £2,000 after year two
• £3,000 annually from year three onwards

Key Responsibilities

• Chair child protection conferences, keeping children’s best interests at the centre
• Lead on outcome-focused, multi-agency protection plans
• Monitor and review plans, supporting continuous improvement
• Deliver training on child protection processes
• Provide LADO cover, including chairing meetings related to professional allegations

You’ll work in a small, expert team of Chairs, collaborating with social workers, educators, health and other professionals to deliver comprehensive safeguarding plans using strength-based and restorative practices.

About You

We’re looking for candidates who are:

• Qualified Social Workers, registered with Social Work England
• Experienced in child protection, ideally at Assistant/Team Manager level
• Skilled communicators with strong analytical and decision-making abilities
• Knowledgeable in safeguarding legislation and multi-agency collaboration
• Available to work from Sutton Civic Offices up to three days a week

This role is ideal for those seeking to take the next step in their child protection career, particularly those with a background in team leadership or LADO experience.

Our Offer to You

At Sutton, we value talent and support continuous development. We offer:

• Generous annual leave and bank holidays
• Smarter Working policy and flexible hybrid arrangements
• Extensive learning and development programmes
• Season ticket and bicycle loans, car parking scheme
• Local Government Pension Scheme
• Zip car scheme and subsidised gym membership
• Confidential wellbeing and counselling services
• Discounts on shopping, food and leisure
• Three volunteering days per year

We’re proud of our inclusive culture. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and particularly encourage candidates from underrepresented groups to apply. As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee interviews for eligible disabled applicants.

Right to Work and Sponsorship

The UK has introduced a points-based immigration system affecting both EU and non-EU nationals. Before applying, please check your eligibility to work in the UK on the GOV.UK website.

How to Apply

Please apply online, clearly outlining how your skills and experience meet the criteria for the role. Refer to the job profile when completing your application and ensure all employment history is included.

We anonymise personal information during the shortlisting process to reduce bias. Early application is recommended as we may close the vacancy once sufficient applications are received.

For further information, contact:
Denise Walford, Senior CP Chair – denise.walford@sutton.gov.uk
Karen Wells, Safeguarding Manager – karen.walls@sutton.gov.uk