Recovery Worker - Assessments Team - Leeds - Sanctuary Personal

Sanctuary Personnel Ltd; Leeds; Hybrid; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A trusted staffing agency is seeking a Locum Recovery Worker to join the Assessments Team in Leeds. This role involves supporting individuals with substance misuse and mental health challenges through assessments and tailored recovery plans. Ideal candidates should have relevant experience and qualifications, along with strong communication and risk management skills. Flexible working conditions and competitive pay are offered.

Qualifications

• Experience in substance misuse, mental health, homelessness, or related fields.
• Strong assessment and risk management skills.
• Knowledge of safeguarding processes for both adults and children.

Responsibilities

• Carry out thorough, person-centred assessments.
• Develop tailored recovery plans aligned with individual needs.
• Deliver motivational interviewing and structured psychosocial interventions.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date records.

Skills

Experience in substance misuse

Strong assessment skills

Risk management skills

Knowledge of safeguarding processes

Effective communication

Confidence with IT systems

Education

Qualification in health or social care

Job description

Role: Locum Recovery Worker – Criminal Justice
Team: Assessments Team
Location: Leeds, UK
Hourly Rate: £TBC / Competitive Pay
Contract: Full-Time / Part-Time, Ongoing

Join the Assessments Team in Leeds as a Recovery Worker supporting individuals affected by substance misuse, mental health challenges, and complex social issues. This is an excellent ongoing locum opportunity offering flexibility, competitive hourly pay, and the chance to make a meaningful impact within the criminal justice and recovery sector.

What You Will Do

Initial Assessments

Carry out thorough, person‑centred assessments for individuals referred into the service.

Gather key information on substance use, mental health, risk factors, and social circumstances.

Identify eligibility for support and upscale complex cases to senior practitioners when needed.

Recovery Planning

Develop tailored, goal‑focused recovery plans aligned with individual needs.

Offer harm reduction advice and connect individuals with appropriate community services.

Regularly review and adjust plans in response to changes in circumstances or progress.

Brief Interventions & Support

Deliver motivational interviewing and structured psychosocial interventions.

Provide information on detox pathways, prescribing options, and additional supports.

Facilitate smooth engagement with internal and external treatment services.

Complete and maintain accurate risk assessments and management strategies.

Identify safeguarding concerns and act in accordance with policies and procedures.

Work collaboratively with partner agencies to mitigate and manage risk effectively.

Communicate with GPs, mental health teams, social care, probation, and wider partners.

Attend case meetings, MDT discussions, and safeguarding reviews.

Ensure coordinated, holistic support through effective referrals and information‑sharing.

Record Keeping & Compliance

Maintain accurate, up‑to‑date records in line with organisational standards.

Ensure compliance with safeguarding, confidentiality, and professional conduct guidelines.

Uphold service policies and contribute to quality assurance.

Service Delivery

Use a trauma‑informed and empathetic approach within all interactions.

Support individuals throughout their recovery journey and treatment pathway.

Contribute to service improvements and promote best practice within the team.

Skills & Experience Required

Experience in substance misuse, mental health, homelessness, or related fields.

Strong assessment and risk management skills.

Knowledge of safeguarding processes for both adults and children.

Ability to build rapport, communicate effectively, and work sensitively with diverse needs.

Confident with IT systems and accurate record‑keeping.

Qualifications

A qualification in health, social care, or substance misuse is desirable.

Training in safeguarding, brief interventions, or psychosocial approaches advantageous.

Relevant professional experience may be considered in place of formal qualifications.

Why Leeds?

Leeds is a vibrant, welcoming city offering a blend of cultural hotspots, green spaces, and lively urban living. With its thriving arts scene, diverse communities, and excellent transport links, Leeds is a fantastic place to live and work. Whether exploring its historic architecture or enjoying its buzzing city life, you’ll find endless opportunities both professionally and personally.

Working with Sanctuary Personnel

Sanctuary Personnel is a trusted, award‑winning agency with an ‘Excellent’ rating on Trustpilot from over 1,000 reviews. We are committed to offering the best possible rates, dedicated support, and roles that match your skills and ambitions.