Child Protection Specialist

North East Ambition; Sunderland; On-site; GBP 48,000 - 53,000; Full time

Job summary

A dedicated children's services organization in Sunderland is seeking a Child Protection Specialist to join their Multi Agency Child Protection Team. The role involves building relationships with various partners to support and protect children in need. Candidates should have experience in collaborating with family help teams and understanding the lived experiences of children. This full-time position offers opportunities for professional growth and a supportive work environment.

Benefits

Free onsite parking

Local Government Pension Scheme

Flexi scheme

Comprehensive training opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience working with children and families in a protective role.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with multi-agency partners.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Build relationships with multi-agency partners to support children in need.
• Support networks for children to make lasting changes.
• Ensure alignment with relevant policies and procedures.

Skills

Relationship building

Understanding lived experiences

Multi-agency collaboration

Job description

Child Protection Specialist

Grade 9 (SCP 37-41) £48,226 - £52,413 per annum

Full Time/Permanent

Opportunity

This is your opportunity to join our ‘Outstanding’ Company and make a difference!

Join our Team

Together for Children Sunderland is on a transformative journey to make a real difference in the lives of children and young people in Sunderland. We are an outstanding Ofsted‑rated Children’s service; if you’re committed to helping children, families, and our community thrive and have the skills to support our mission, we would love to hear from you.

Position Summary

We are looking to appoint an experienced worker within a new Child Protection Specialist role within our developing Multi Agency Child Protection Team, working on behalf of Sunderland City Council to deliver children’s services in the city.

Core Responsibilities

Build relationships with our multi‑agency partners and family help teams in supporting children in need of protection. Help understand their lived experience and support their networks to make lasting changes, in line with relevant policies and procedures.

Additional Requirements

Enhanced DBS check is required; this post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

Why Choose Us?

• Outstanding Recognition: Rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted in 2021 and 2025.
• Supportive Environment: Benefit from high levels of support and guidance from experienced Team Managers and Assistant Team Managers.
• Professional Growth: Access to ongoing training and development programmes; regular reflective supervision.
• Innovative Practice: We use the Signs of Safety model, with extensive training and support provided.

What We Offer

• Visible Leadership: "The workforce is motivated and inspired by leaders and managers to continually improve their practice and children’s outcomes" - Ofsted 2025
• Comprehensive Training: Extensive training and development opportunities through our dedicated Practice Development team.
• Work‑Life Balance: Flexible working arrangements, agile working policy, and a good health and wellbeing programme.
• Attractive Benefits: Free onsite parking at the Sandhill Centre, car lease scheme, Local Government Pension Scheme, and flexi scheme.

Contact

If you would like to have an informal discussion, please do not hesitate to contact Paula Steel at [e-mail].

Diversity & Inclusion

We value diversity and strongly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including various ages, disabilities, neurodiverse individuals, gender identities, sexual orientations, religions, beliefs, races, and ethnicities. We are committed to making our application process accessible to everyone.

For adjustments or support during recruitment or employment, please contact our EDI Lead at [e-mail] or [e-mail].

We operate a guaranteed interview scheme for applicants who meet all essential criteria and have indicated a disability, are a looked‑after young person, are care experienced, or are a veteran.

Are You Ready to Make a Difference?

Yes – join us and help change lives.