Social Care Practitioners

Bath & North East Somerset Council; Midsomer Norton; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional local authority in England is looking for a Social Care Practitioner to provide essential support and advice to individuals and carers in maintaining their independence. This role involves assessing needs, safeguarding vulnerable individuals, and collaborating with community resources to ensure the best possible outcomes for clients. Candidates should have in-depth knowledge of the Care Act and strong communication skills. The council offers a supportive environment focused on service development and requires dedicated individuals passionate about social care.

Qualifications

• Proven knowledge of the Care Act, including assessment and eligibility criteria.
• Experience in risk management and safeguarding within social care settings.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to provide clear, robust advice.

Responsibilities

• Deliver comprehensive, accurate advice and information to individuals contacting the service.
• Identify and manage risks appropriately, safeguarding vulnerable individuals.
• Signpost and refer individuals to appropriate community resources.

Skills

Knowledge of the Care Act

Experience in risk management

Strong communication skills

Ability to work in a person-centred way

Job description

Overview

Bath & North East Somerset Council invites applications for Social Care Practitioners to join the newly formed Access, Advice, and Information Service team. The role involves being the first point of contact for individuals and carers seeking advice and information to help them maintain independence in their own homes or in their caring role. You will provide robust, clear, and timely advice, guidance, and information that supports people’s well-being and independence, using a strength-based and person-centred approach, ensuring that individuals’ outcomes are met in ways that respect their preferences and promote meaningful lives.

Responsibilities

• Deliver comprehensive, accurate, and timely advice and information to individuals contacting the service, ensuring clarity and confidence in the guidance provided.
• Identify and manage risks appropriately, safeguarding vulnerable individuals and ensuring their safety and well-being.
• Signpost and refer individuals to appropriate community resources, including third-sector and voluntary organisations, when their needs can be met outside of statutory services.
• Provide advice on housing, benefits, and assistive technology options to support independence.
• Respond effectively to urgent enquiries, including those from individuals already known to services, offering guidance on pricing and available support options.
• Collaborate with Safeguarding and Triage and First Response Teams or Locality Teams for cases requiring additional support.
• Contribute enthusiastically to the ongoing development of the service, including the integration of assistive technology and equipment to enhance support delivery.
• Assess whether individuals require a Care Act assessment by applying a strong understanding of eligibility criteria and the Care Act framework.
• Support carers to access the carers assessment service, consider when a carers assessment will be required and provide carers with advice, information, and guidance.
• Provide information and advice relating to the council's care and support charging and financial assessment framework.

Person Specification

• Proven knowledge of the Care Act, including assessment and eligibility criteria.
• Experience in risk management and safeguarding within social care settings.
• Familiarity with community resources, housing, benefits, and assistive technology.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to provide clear, robust advice and information.
• Passionate about promoting independence, well-being, and community connections.
• Ability to work in a person-centred, strength-based way that respects individual preferences and outcomes.
• Enthusiasm for service development and innovation.

Why Join Us?

This is a unique opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to providing high-quality advice and information at the first point of contact. You will play a crucial role in supporting people to live independently and meaningfully within their communities. We offer a supportive environment where your expertise and passion will help shape the future of social care services in Bath and North East Somerset.

If you are committed to making a real difference through robust advice and information, and excited about contributing to an evolving service, we would love to hear from you. Apply now to join our Access, Advice, and Information Service team and help us deliver outstanding support to our community.

If you are interested in this post and require more details or just to chat through the role and what’s involved, please contact Kirsty Quinn, Interim Head of Adult Social Care, by email: [e-mail]

*Please note that BANES Council operates a policy of prior consideration for roles for any individual on the Council’s at-risk register (redeployee). This means should a redeployee express an interest in this role, providing they meet the essential criteria for the role they will be considered ahead of external applicants.

Please note that this advert may close earlier than the stated closing date due to high demand. We advise all interested candidates to apply as soon as possible.