Social Worker (COS Available) At East London NHS Foundation Trust

Location: East London NHS Foundation Trust, United Kingdom
Salary: £54,320 to £60,981 per annum (inclusive of HCAs)
Contract: Permanent
Working Pattern: Full-time
Closing Date: 18 May 2025

Introduction: Join East London NHS Foundation Trust as a Social Worker

Are you a skilled and compassionate social worker with a passion for supporting individuals with learning disabilities and/or autism? East London NHS Foundation Trust (ELFT) invites applications for a rewarding opportunity as a Social Worker within the Forensic Intellectual and Neurodevelopmental Disability (FIND) service. This role offers you the chance to make a significant difference in the lives of adults at risk of or currently involved with the criminal justice system, all while working in a dynamic, multidisciplinary team.

As part of the FIND team, you will have the opportunity to work across North East London, collaborating with a wide range of professionals, including criminal justice partners, mental health services, and community learning disability services. With a strong commitment to a strengths-based approach, this role allows you to support individuals in optimising their life choices and opportunities.

If you’re ready to take on a challenging and fulfilling role that involves making a real impact, read on to discover more about the position, responsibilities, and the qualifications needed to succeed.

Key Responsibilities of the Social Worker Role

As a Social Worker within the FIND team, you will play a key role in providing comprehensive social care services to individuals under the care of the service. Your main responsibilities will include:

1. Person-Centered Social Work Service

Provide social work support to individuals within the FIND Team.
Undertake comprehensive assessments of service users’ needs under the Care Act 2014, identifying the appropriate resources and interventions.
Contribute to forensic risk assessments, care planning, and risk management for service users with severe and enduring mental health conditions.
Lead on social work perspectives in multi-disciplinary discussions, ensuring the holistic needs of service users are met.

2. Safeguarding and Protection

Actively engage in safeguarding practices, including s42 Care Act enquiries, to ensure the safety and well-being of adults at risk.
Respond to and manage victim and community sensitivities where clinically appropriate, ensuring victims are treated with care and respect.
Implement child protection legislation and adhere to local protocols for safeguarding children and vulnerable adults.

3. Collaboration and Multi-Agency Working

Consult with and refer cases to public protection agencies and the Multi-Agency Public Protection Panel (MAPPA) to ensure collaborative risk management.
Work closely with criminal justice partners, learning disability services, and forensic mental health professionals to develop and review care plans.
Support the development of recall plans for conditionally-discharged patients, adhering to Ministry of Justice guidelines.

4. Statutory Reporting and Documentation

Prepare detailed reports for CPA review meetings, First-tier Tribunals, and other necessary legal proceedings.
Provide statutory reports as required by the Ministry of Justice and contribute to the Mental Health Act assessments.

Person Specification: Qualifications and Experience Required

To succeed in this role, you should meet the following essential qualifications and experience:

Qualifications

CQSW, DipSW, or equivalent social work qualification.
Educated to degree level or have equivalent practical experience in social work.
Current UK professional registration is required.

Experience

Significant post-qualifying experience working with people with severe and enduring mental health problems and those involved in the criminal justice system.
Experience in working with mentally disordered offenders and individuals with learning disabilities.
Experience of working in an ethnically diverse community and collaborating with interpreters.
Practical experience of promoting human rights and advancing social justice.

Skills and Knowledge

In-depth knowledge of mental health care, particularly for mentally disordered offenders.
Ability to conduct Care Act Assessments and Mental Capacity Act 2005 assessments, including Deprivation of Liberty safeguards.
Strong decision-making skills and ability to intervene appropriately to prevent harm, neglect, or abuse.
Understanding of criminal justice processes and the roles of key stakeholders within this context.

Benefits of Working with East London NHS Foundation Trust

At East London NHS Foundation Trust, we are committed to supporting our staff and offering a range of benefits designed to promote a healthy work-life balance and professional development. As a social worker within our team, you’ll benefit from:

1. Competitive Salary and Benefits

Salary range of £54,320 to £60,981 per annum (inclusive of HCAs).
Generous annual leave and pension scheme options.
Flexible working hours to support work-life balance.

2. Professional Development

Access to a range of training programs and professional development opportunities.
Support for ongoing career progression within the Trust, with opportunities to move into senior roles or specialisms.

3. Collaborative Work Environment

Be part of a multidisciplinary team, collaborating with healthcare professionals, criminal justice partners, and community services.
Work in a supportive and inclusive environment that encourages learning and development.

4. Certificate of Sponsorship

Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) available for eligible international applicants, enabling you to apply for a Skilled Worker visa to work in the UK.

Why Choose East London NHS Foundation Trust?

At East London NHS Foundation Trust (ELFT), we pride ourselves on making a positive difference to people’s lives. We are committed to delivering high-quality care that respects the dignity and rights of all individuals. We embrace a culture of care, respect, and inclusivity, ensuring our services meet the diverse needs of our communities.

Our FIND service is integral to providing high-quality care for individuals at risk of entering the criminal justice system due to their learning disabilities or autism. By joining our team, you will be part of an organization that fosters collaboration, supports professional development, and upholds the highest standards of care.

Application Process: How to Apply

If you are passionate about supporting individuals with learning disabilities and autism and meet the qualifications outlined above, we encourage you to apply.

Submit Your Application: Apply directly through the ELFT jobs portal. Be sure to include your updated CV and a cover letter demonstrating your suitability for the role.
Application Deadline: All applications must be submitted by 18 May 2025.
Shortlisting and Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an interview, where we will assess your skills, experience, and commitment to our values.
Pre-Employment Checks: Successful candidates will be required to undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and reference checks.

Apply Here

Additional Information for International Applicants

For international applicants, please note that this role is eligible for a Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) to enable you to apply for a Skilled Worker visa. We welcome applications from candidates requiring sponsorship and will consider all applicants based on their qualifications and experience.

For further guidance on the visa application process, please refer to the UK Visas and Immigration website.

Final Thoughts: Join Us in Making a Difference

East London NHS Foundation Trust is committed to providing exceptional care and support to individuals with learning disabilities and autism, particularly those at risk of entering or currently involved with the criminal justice system. As a social worker, you will have the unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who need it most.

If you are a qualified social worker with a passion for working in a dynamic and supportive environment, we would love to hear from you. Apply now and take the next step in your professional journey with East London NHS Foundation Trust.