Social Worker (COS Available) at NELFT North East London Foundation Trust

Location: United Kingdom

Salary: £37,338 to £44,962 per annum + High-Cost Area Supplement

Contract Type: Permanent

Working Hours: Full-time

Certificate of Sponsorship: Available

Application Deadline: 02 June 2025

Make a Real Difference in Mental Health with the NHS

The North East London Foundation Trust (NELFT) is seeking highly motivated, compassionate, and experienced Social Workers to join its Barking and Dagenham Adults Home Treatment Team (B&DHTT). This Band 6 opportunity is designed for professionals dedicated to improving lives through urgent, community-based mental health interventions. With a Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) available for international applicants, this is your chance to make a meaningful impact while building a rewarding NHS career in the UK.

Role Overview: Empower Recovery at the Frontline of Crisis Support

As a Social Worker within NELFT’s multidisciplinary Home Treatment Team, you will be instrumental in providing high-quality, short-term, and intensive interventions for adults experiencing acute mental health crises. Your work will help minimize hospital admissions by offering vital care and support in the comfort of patients’ homes. You’ll collaborate across services, enabling individuals to recover in a familiar environment while maintaining their independence and dignity.

Primary Responsibilities Include:

• Delivering urgent mental health assessments and time-limited interventions tailored to individuals in crisis.
• Leading on safeguarding matters and contributing to robust risk assessment and mitigation strategies.
• Attending and actively participating in interdisciplinary clinical review meetings and case discussions.
• Creating person-centered care plans that involve service users, families, carers, and relevant external partners.
• Promoting recovery-oriented practices that empower individuals and reduce dependency.
• Ensuring adherence to local safeguarding protocols, the Care Act, Mental Health Act, and other relevant legislation.
• Supporting care transitions, including discharge planning and liaison with community services.
• Contributing to service improvement initiatives and audit activities.

Required Qualifications, Certifications & Licenses

Essential Criteria:

• NVQ Level 2 or equivalent in Literacy and Numeracy.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Social Work from a recognized institution.
• Full and active registration with Social Work England.

Desirable Qualifications:

• A teaching, mentoring, or assessment qualification (e.g., ENB 998, TICS, or equivalent).
• Additional CPD or training in areas like trauma-informed care, CBT, or mental capacity assessments.

Core Competencies & Relevant Experience

Ideal candidates will possess:

• Demonstrated experience in adult and/or older adult mental health, preferably in crisis intervention or acute care settings.
• Excellent interpersonal and clinical assessment skills with the ability to develop rapport quickly.
• Comprehensive understanding of legal frameworks, including the Mental Health Act 1983, Mental Capacity Act, and safeguarding practices.
• Strong decision-making capabilities, especially in high-pressure or emergency scenarios.
• Confidence in navigating multidisciplinary and multi-agency environments.
• Cultural sensitivity and commitment to delivering inclusive, non-discriminatory services.
• Familiarity with digital record-keeping systems and documentation requirements.

Benefits & Support Provided by NELFT

Competitive Salary with London Weighting:

• Salary Band 6: £37,338 to £44,962 (based on qualifications and experience).
• High-Cost Area Supplement (HCAS): An additional 15% of basic salary (from £4,551 to £5,735 annually).

Professional Growth & Development:

• Comprehensive two-week induction to NELFT and NHS systems.
• Direct interaction with executive leadership and multidisciplinary teams during orientation.
• Continuous professional development (CPD) sessions and access to internal/external training.
• Career progression support including secondment opportunities, special projects, and leadership pathways.

Health, Wellbeing & Inclusion:

• Structured clinical and peer supervision.
• Employee wellbeing services and mental health support.
• A strong culture of respect, dignity, and inclusive practice at all levels.
• Flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance.

Operational Advantages:

• Access to NHS pension scheme and staff benefits (e.g., NHS discounts).
• Predictable and rotating 7-day shift schedule.
• Free or subsidized car parking on-site with valid staff pass.
• Use of mobile and digital resources to support fieldwork and communication.

Visa Sponsorship & Relocation Assistance:

• Full support for Skilled Worker Visa (COS included).
• Expert guidance on immigration process, documentation, and application timelines.
• Onboarding package tailored for international recruits, including housing advice and integration resources.

Discover NELFT – A Leader in Community and Mental Health Services

The North East London NHS Foundation Trust (NELFT) is one of the UK’s most forward-thinking NHS organizations, committed to excellence in mental health, community, and social care services. Serving populations across North East London, Essex, Kent, and Medway, NELFT combines clinical innovation with compassionate care.

NELFT’s Vision & Mission:

• Deliver holistic and person-centred care to the community.
• Empower staff through training, recognition, and career development.
• Promote sustainability, equality, and service-user participation in care delivery.

Locations You May Work:

• Primary base: Tantallon House, Goodmayes Hospital, Ilford.
• Regular travel required within Barking and Dagenham borough for community visits.
• Integration with local borough teams and community agencies.

Legal Considerations & Application Integrity

Enhanced DBS Disclosure:

• Role is subject to Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance.
• Exempt under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975.

Criminal Records (Overseas):

• International applicants must provide police clearance or criminal record checks from all countries lived in within the past decade.

Fair Recruitment & AI Policy:

• Personal statements must be authentically written by applicants.
• Any use of AI or third-party authorship may result in application disqualification.
• Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities or specific needs.

Why International Applicants Should Apply

This role is uniquely suited for qualified international social workers aiming to bring their expertise to the UK. The combination of a supportive workplace, clear progression paths, and relocation assistance makes NELFT an attractive choice for overseas professionals.

Key International Support Benefits:

• Eligibility for UK Skilled Worker Visa through Certificate of Sponsorship.
• Cultural induction, housing guidance, and mentorship from experienced staff.
• Multicultural and inclusive workforce with staff networks and peer support.
• Recognition of overseas qualifications (with support for Social Work England registration).

Application Guidelines & Next Steps

Key Application Deadline:

• All applications must be received by 02 June 2025.
• Early application submission is strongly encouraged as shortlisting may occur before the deadline.

Application Checklist:

• Up-to-date CV with full employment and education history.
• Evidence of social work qualifications and Social Work England registration.
• A compelling personal statement tailored to the role.
• Employer references covering at least the last three years of work.

How to Apply:

• Click here to apply via NHS Jobs
• Follow instructions carefully and upload all requested documents.

This is your opportunity to join a dynamic and caring mental health team that is transforming lives in the community. Apply now and take the next step in your professional journey with the NHS and NELFT.