Direct Representation Social Worker
Job purpose
The Direct Representation Program Social Worker will work under the direction of attorneys representing children in abuse and neglect cases. This position is responsible for being part of a child’s legal team, making referrals for services, collecting data, and consulting with the child to achieve the child’s objectives.
Duties and responsibilities
- Communicate with children regularly, including in-person visits.
- Consult with attorneys on the legal objectives of the case.
- Identify needs of the child and discuss with the legal team.
- Participate in discussions regarding placement for the child.
- Speak with the child’s parents regarding recommendations for the child.
- Make referrals for services.
- Work with outside agencies to coordinate and facilitate placement.
- Conduct psychosocial evaluations.
- Attend Child & Family Team Meetings.
- Attend hearings and testify when needed.
- Develop and implement policies and best practices for social workers in the Direct Representation Program.
- Track outcomes for children.
Qualifications
· Master’s Degree in Social Work or related field. LCSW in good standing in the State of Indiana.
· Must have the ability to communicate effectively, handle responsibility, and work independently with clients and co-workers.
· Must have experience working with youth ages 12-20.
· Ability to work effectively with people of diverse cultures, ages, and economic backgrounds in a culturally competent manner.
· Knowledge and understanding of issues and dynamics within families in crisis, i.e. child abuse and neglect, family violence, cultural diversity.
· Experience working with the Department of Child Services.
· Knowledge of legal terminology, ethics, and court procedures.
· Commitment to Child Advocates’ goals and mission.
· Knowledge and skill in computer use.
· Strength of character, honesty, humor, and flexibility are important.
· Must have your own vehicle and be properly insured.
· Must have a valid driver’s license.
Working conditions
This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, and fax machines. Time will also be spent working with children and families in various locations and in the home. Will spend time sitting in your car and driving.
Physical requirements
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. The employee may be required to stand, walk, use hands, handle or feel, reach with hands and arms. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to drive, stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to sit and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must be able to lift up to 25 pounds.