Social Worker Mental Health (Grade 11)

Powys County Council; Wales; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A local authority in Wales is seeking a qualified social care professional to assess and manage the needs of individuals with mental health issues. This role involves significant collaboration with other agencies, ensuring safeguarding and promoting social inclusion. Candidates must have a degree in social work or equivalent, along with an AMHP qualification or willingness to train, plus at least 12 months of relevant experience.

Qualifications

• Post-qualifying experience working with people with mental health issues and their carers.
• Experience in undertaking needs assessments and managing risks.
• Knowledge of safeguarding issues and relevant legislation.

Responsibilities

• Assess and manage complex mental health needs of clients.
• Ensure safeguarding and promote independence.
• Engage in direct work with clients for assessment and support.

Skills

Communication

Crisis Management

Conflict Resolution

Organizational Skills

Collaboration

Education

Degree in Social Work

AMHP qualification

Job description

Job Category: Social Care – Qualified

Location: Newtown Ladywell House, Powys County Council

Hours Per Week: 37.00

Start Date: Immediate start

Start Time: 08:30

End Time: 16:45

Salary: £33.60

Applications from practicing AMHPs only. Covering North Powys.

Main Purpose of Post:

To assess and manage the complex needs of people with a mental health issue and their carers to ensure their health, wellbeing, and promote social inclusion. To liaise with professionals to ensure seamless care pathways which safeguard and promote independence. To promote joint working which supports the person-centred outcomes for people with a mental health issue. To undertake safeguarding investigations as required. To assist the Local Authority in meeting statutory obligations under the Mental Health Measure, the Social Services and Wellbeing (Wales) Act 2014, and other relevant legislation. To undertake the role of an AMHP to deliver on the Local Authority's statutory requirements within the MHA 1983.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Ensure the needs of people with mental health issues and their carers are assessed holistically, support negotiated, monitored, and reviewed within the first six weeks.
2. Maintain own allocated caseload.
3. Assess risks to people with mental health issues and others, promoting independence and ensuring safeguards are in place.
4. Make recommendations about resource allocation.
5. Promote equal opportunity and respect for diversity and difference.
6. Promote social inclusion of isolated and vulnerable people.
7. Investigate abuse of vulnerable adults.
8. Collaborate with other agencies.
9. Ensure actions are accountable through accurate recording of decisions in line with policy and legislation.
10. Safeguard the welfare of vulnerable persons at immediate risk of harm.
11. Engage in direct work with individuals with mental health issues and their carers for assessment.
12. Enhance problem-solving capacities to support maximum independence and choice.
13. Consider options to meet assessed needs and support informed decisions.
14. Undertake the role of an AMHP.

Experience:

• At least 12 months post-qualifying experience working with people with mental health issues and their carers.
• Experience in undertaking needs assessments and managing risks.
• Experience with complex casework.
• Experience in care management across health and social care settings.

Knowledge:

• Understanding of mental health needs and carers’ needs.
• Understanding of safeguarding issues.
• Knowledge of current legislation, guidance, and best practices relevant to the role.
• Knowledge of the Mental Capacity Act and its implementation.

Qualifications & Training:

• Degree in Social Work, DipSW, or equivalent.
• AMHP qualification or willingness to undertake training promptly.

Skills:

• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to organize, prioritize, and manage caseloads.
• Ability to build partnerships and work collaboratively.
• Skills in crisis management, conflict resolution, and handling challenging behaviors.
• Commitment to equal opportunities and confidentiality.