Social Worker

NHS; London; On-site; GBP 54,000 - 61,000; Full time

Job summary

The East London Forensic Intellectual and Neurodevelopmental Disability Service seeks a dedicated social worker to support individuals with learning disabilities and autism. The role involves comprehensive assessments, safeguarding duties, and collaboration with various agencies to enhance service user quality of life.

Qualifications

• Significant post-qualifying experience with severe mental health issues.
• Experience with mentally disordered offenders and diverse communities.

Responsibilities

• Deliver a comprehensive social work service, including risk assessment and care planning.
• Implement safeguarding procedures for adults and children at risk.

Skills

Assessment skills

Judgment

Knowledge of mental health legislation

Education

CQSW, DipSW, or equivalent social work qualification

Degree-level education or equivalent experience

Tools

Windows

Excel

PowerPoint

Job description

East London Forensic Intellectual and Neurodevelopmental Disability Service (FIND) is an exciting and dynamic team supporting individuals with Learning Disabilities and/or Autism who are at risk of contact with the Criminal Justice System. The service aims to reduce offending and reoffending, providing support across North East London, including complex case management, joint work with partner agencies, and training programs. The team also manages inpatient admissions at the John Howard Centre Medium Secure Unit and offers in-reach services to inpatients nearing discharge. A strengths-based approach guides work with service users and carers to optimise individual assets and facilitate positive life choices.

Main Duties of the Job

1. Provide social work services to service users within the FIND Team.
2. Undertake comprehensive assessments.
3. Maintain contact with families and informal carers; conduct formal carers assessments as appropriate.
4. Carry out statutory safeguarding duties, including s42 Care Act enquiries.
5. Act as Social Supervisor for conditionally discharged restricted patients per Ministry of Justice guidance.
6. Lead enquiries on victim or community sensitivities when clinically appropriate.
7. Refer cases to the Multi-Agency Public Protection Panel (MAPPA) and other public protection agencies.
8. Develop and coordinate recall plans under s42(3) Mental Health Act.
9. Contribute to risk assessments and management plans.

About Us

Our mission is to make a positive difference by improving quality of life. We value Care, Respect, and Inclusivity, seeking individuals who embody these qualities in supporting service users and colleagues.

Job Responsibilities

1. Deliver a comprehensive social work service, including risk assessment, management, and care planning tailored to forensic needs.
2. Conduct person-centered assessments under the Care Act 2014 and identify suitable resources.
3. Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately.
4. Engage with families and carers, conducting assessments as needed.
5. Implement safeguarding procedures for adults and children at risk, including statutory duties under relevant legislation.
6. Prepare reports for CPA reviews, tribunals, and provide statutory recommendations.
7. Lead enquiries on community and victim sensitivities, liaising with Victim Liaison Officers.
8. Apply relevant legislation to ensure patient care and public safety.
9. Refer and present cases at MAPPA and other multi-agency forums.
10. Develop and coordinate recall plans under the Mental Health Act.
11. Contribute to risk assessment and management strategies.

Person Specification

Education/Qualifications/Training

• CQSW, DipSW, or equivalent social work qualification.
• Degree-level education or equivalent experience.

Experience

• Significant post-qualifying experience working with individuals with severe mental health issues.
• Experience with mentally disordered offenders and diverse communities.
• Familiarity with criminal justice processes and stakeholder roles.
• Proficiency with standard computing software (e.g., Windows, Excel, PowerPoint).

Knowledge and Skills

• Assessment skills, including Care Act and needs assessments.
• Judgment and authority to intervene appropriately.
• Understanding of mental health legislation and best practices.
• Knowledge of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and safeguarding principles.
• Commitment to professional development.

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This role requires a DBS check due to the nature of the work involving vulnerable individuals.

Salary: £54,320 to £60,981 per annum, including HCAs.