Location: United Kingdom
Salary: £54,320 to £60,981 per year (inclusive of inner London HCAS)
Contract: Permanent
Working Pattern: Full-time
Certificate of Sponsorship: Available
Closing Date: 01 May 2025
Location: Springfield University Hospital, London, SW17 0YF
Job Overview: Lead Social Worker – Forensic Mental Health Service
Are you an experienced, innovative, and dedicated social worker looking to make a significant impact in the field of forensic mental health? South West London and St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust is offering an exciting opportunity for a Lead Social Worker to join the Forensic Mental Health Service at Springfield University Hospital. This role provides the chance to work within a multidisciplinary team, support vulnerable patients, and lead social work services for individuals with complex mental health needs.
The role is based in the Shaftesbury Clinic at Springfield Hospital and focuses on providing care to patients with severe mental health disorders, such as psychotic illnesses, bipolar disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. You will work as part of the MDT in Ruby Ward, a 10-bedded female medium-secure unit, providing social work interventions in an inpatient setting.
Key Responsibilities
As the Lead Social Worker in the Forensic Mental Health Service, you will have a range of critical responsibilities, including but not limited to:
Social Work Leadership and Management
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Provide direct leadership and supervision for social workers within the forensic services, ensuring they meet the needs of patients.
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Manage complex cases through comprehensive assessments, social histories, and interventions, maintaining professional standards at all times.
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Supervise and mentor social work staff, fostering their development and supporting their professional growth.
Forensic Social Work Practice
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Collaborate within a multidisciplinary team (MDT) to provide integrated care for patients on Ruby Ward, focusing on their mental health and well-being.
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Lead Safeguarding responsibilities, ensuring adherence to relevant safeguarding policies and protocols.
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Take the lead in applying key legislations, including the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (MCA), Mental Health Act 1983 (MHA), and Care Act 2014, ensuring compliance in all aspects of practice.
Assessment and Discharge Planning
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Conduct detailed patient assessments, considering both psychological and social factors.
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Lead discharge planning by coordinating with local authorities, CCGs, and other relevant bodies to ensure smooth transitions for patients.
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Manage statutory responsibilities, including attendance at mental health tribunals, Care Programme Approach (CPA) meetings, and hospital manager hearings.
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Make referrals to MAPPA (Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements) when appropriate for patients who meet the criteria.
Collaboration and External Engagement
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Work closely with external agencies, including local safeguarding teams, local authorities, and housing departments, to ensure holistic care for patients.
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Join and lead assessment meetings, both for inpatient and community services, ensuring collaborative planning across the MDT.
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Lead funding applications for local authority placements, housing support, and other related needs for patients.
Required Qualifications and Experience
To succeed in this role, the ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications and experience:
Essential Qualifications
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Recognized UK social work qualification, such as a Social Work Degree, CQSW, CSS, or Dip SW, or an equivalent international qualification.
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Current registration with the GSCC (General Social Care Council) or other relevant regulatory bodies.
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Post-qualifying training in relevant areas of social work and mental health, with evidence of continuous professional development.
Experience
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Post-qualifying experience as a social worker, with the ability to work autonomously within a multi-disciplinary setting.
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Experience working with individuals with complex mental health needs, preferably in a forensic setting or inpatient mental health environment.
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Leadership experience in a social work capacity, with the ability to manage and mentor social work staff effectively.
Desirable Experience
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Experience in forensic services and working with patients who have dual diagnoses or substance misuse issues.
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Experience working with adult patients in a mental health or forensic setting, demonstrating the ability to manage sensitive and complex cases.
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Clinical skills in engaging patients with mental health disorders and providing effective social work interventions.
Key Skills and Competencies
Social Work Knowledge and Skills
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Specialist knowledge of social work practice within severe and enduring mental health conditions and forensic settings.
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Deep understanding of relevant legislation, including the Mental Health Act (1983), Mental Capacity Act (2005), and Care Act (2014).
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Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to liaise effectively across multidisciplinary teams and external agencies.
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Risk assessment and management: Proven ability to assess and manage risk in a complex and challenging environment.
Leadership and Supervision
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Leadership skills to guide and motivate a team of social workers in a forensic mental health setting.
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Ability to mentor and supervise social work staff, supporting their development and ensuring adherence to professional standards.
Clinical and Analytical Skills
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Ability to assess, plan, and provide treatment for individuals with complex mental health needs.
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Knowledge of therapeutic techniques, including cognitive and behavioral therapies, family therapy, and group work.
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Skills in case management, including discharge planning, safeguarding, and collaboration with external teams.
About South West London and St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust
At South West London and St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust, we are committed to providing outstanding care to individuals suffering from mental health disorders. With a strong focus on continuous improvement and innovation, we are proud to offer expert services and support to our local communities.
We have recently invested £120 million into upgrading and modernizing our facilities by 2027, ensuring that we provide world-class services to our patients. Our staff are at the heart of everything we do, and we offer a supportive, inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
We pride ourselves on fostering a diverse workforce, actively promoting anti-racism and inclusivity within our teams. If you are passionate about making a difference in the mental health sector and are looking for a role that offers career development, flexibility, and the opportunity to work with a dedicated team, we invite you to apply.
Why Work with Us?
Flexible Working and Career Development
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Flexibility: We offer flexible working options to help you achieve a healthy work-life balance.
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Professional Growth: There are numerous opportunities for professional development, including access to training, mentorship, and leadership roles.
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Inclusive Environment: We strive to create an inclusive culture where all employees feel valued and supported.
Competitive Salary and Benefits
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Salary: £54,320 to £60,981 per year, with inner London HCAS included.
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Comprehensive Benefits: We offer a range of employee benefits, including pension schemes, generous annual leave, and health and wellness programs.
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Certificate of Sponsorship: Available for eligible applicants requiring a skilled worker visa.
Application Process
To apply for the position of Lead Social Worker, please submit your application before the closing date of 01 May 2025. Ensure your CV and cover letter highlight your relevant experience, qualifications, and passion for working in forensic mental health.
For detailed information about the role or to apply, visit the NHS careers website or use the link provided. If you need any assistance with your application or have questions about the role, please do not hesitate to contact our HR team.
Apply Here
Apply Now and take the next step in your social work career with South West London and St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust. Make a lasting impact and help us provide life-changing care to individuals in need.