Location: United Kingdom
Salary: £38,626 to £42,708 per annum
Contract: Permanent, Full-time
Certificate of Sponsorship: Available
Application Deadline: 03 June 2025
Overview of the Social Worker Role in Adult Safeguarding at Northumberland County Council
Northumberland County Council is actively recruiting for a dedicated and qualified Social Worker to join the Adults Safeguarding Team within the Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH). This pivotal role involves working closely with partner agencies such as Northumbria Police, Children’s Services, Health Services, and CNTW to protect and support vulnerable adults at risk across Northumberland.
As a Social Worker at NCC, you will be an essential part of a multidisciplinary team committed to ensuring timely and effective safeguarding interventions, supporting individuals through complex situations, and enhancing community safety. This permanent, full-time position offers a competitive salary within Band 8 and the opportunity for hybrid working arrangements based at County Hall, Morpeth.
Why Choose a Social Worker Career at Northumberland County Council?
Committed to Safeguarding Excellence
At Northumberland County Council, safeguarding adults at risk is a top priority. As a Social Worker in the MASH, you will be involved in high-impact, meaningful work that directly affects the well-being and safety of vulnerable individuals in the community. You will collaborate with experienced professionals and agencies to provide coordinated and effective safeguarding solutions.
Competitive Salary and Benefits Package
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Annual salary ranging from £38,626 to £42,708
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26 days annual leave plus public and bank holidays, rising to 31 days after five years of service
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Automatic enrolment in the Local Government Pension Scheme
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Flexible working schemes and up to 2 days flexible leave per month
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Comprehensive wellbeing programs and employee support
Supportive and Collaborative Work Environment
Work within a multidisciplinary team consisting of safeguarding managers, social workers, and team leaders, with access to ongoing professional development and support. The council fosters a culture of resilience, innovation, and continuous learning.
Key Responsibilities of the Social Worker at Northumberland County Council
Lead Safeguarding Referrals Triage and Assessment
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Manage and triage new safeguarding referrals within a critical 24-hour timeframe, ensuring urgent cases receive immediate attention.
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Conduct comprehensive risk assessments, evaluating client strengths and risks to develop effective safety plans that safeguard adults at risk.
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Utilize excellent judgment to identify urgent safeguarding needs and escalate cases as necessary.
Engage with Service Users and Partner Agencies
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Communicate professionally and empathetically with service users, carers, and family members via telephone and face-to-face home visits when appropriate.
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Collaborate closely with partner organizations, including police, health services, and child protection teams, to coordinate safeguarding responses.
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Maintain strong inter-agency relationships to improve multi-agency cooperation and information sharing.
Safeguarding Case Management and Documentation
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Complete timely and accurate assessments, case records, and safeguarding reports in compliance with Northumberland County Council’s policies and statutory requirements.
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Record all safeguarding activity and decisions on the council’s electronic case management systems.
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Conduct unannounced visits to organizations where safeguarding concerns have been raised, assessing risks and compliance.
Support Organisational Safeguarding Strategies
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Provide assistance with organizational safeguarding initiatives, contributing to policy development and procedural improvements.
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Attend regular team meetings, case conferences, and professional development sessions to enhance safeguarding knowledge and practice.
Essential Qualifications and Skills Required
Professional Credentials
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Degree in Social Work or equivalent qualification
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Current Social Work England registration is mandatory
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Successful completion of the Assessed and Supported Year in Employment (ASYE) program
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Valid UK driving license to support home visits and external agency engagement
Experience and Competencies
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Proven experience working in adult safeguarding or a related social care setting
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Ability to operate independently with minimal supervision while effectively managing multiple cases
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Strong assessment and analytical skills to evaluate complex safeguarding situations
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Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including negotiation and conflict resolution
Knowledge and Technical Skills
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Proficiency in safeguarding legislation, policy frameworks, and statutory guidelines
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Familiarity with electronic case management systems and data recording practices
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Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion and professionalism
What Makes Northumberland County Council an Employer of Choice?
A Vision for Opportunity and Growth
Northumberland County Council’s vision, “Land of Great Opportunities,” reflects its commitment to creating a thriving, supportive, and innovative environment for employees and residents alike. The council champions equal opportunity employment, diversity, and inclusion.
Extensive Employee Benefits
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Generous annual leave entitlements that increase with service length
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Local Government Pension Scheme with excellent contributions
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Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working options
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Health and wellbeing initiatives to support physical and mental health
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Access to employee assistance programs and professional development resources
Location and Lifestyle Benefits
Northumberland offers a beautiful natural environment combined with vibrant community life. Based in Morpeth, County Hall is well-connected and provides a collaborative workspace with easy access to both rural and urban amenities.
How to Apply for the Social Worker Role at Northumberland County Council
Interested candidates should prepare their CV and cover letter highlighting relevant experience and qualifications. Applications must be submitted through the official NCC careers portal before the closing date on 03 June 2025.
Visit the Northumberland County Council careers site to apply: Click Here To Apply
Important Information for International Applicants and Sponsorship Details
Northumberland County Council welcomes applications from skilled workers requiring Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) to work in the UK. The council will consider all applicants fairly, including those requiring visa sponsorship under the current Skilled Worker visa rules.
Applicants must be prepared to submit criminal record certificates from any country where they have lived for 12 months or more in the past decade, in line with UK Visas and Immigration requirements. Adult dependants are also subject to this requirement.
Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check Requirement
This role is subject to a DBS check under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975. All shortlisted candidates must consent to this check, ensuring a safe and secure environment for vulnerable adults.
Person Specification: What Northumberland County Council is Looking For
Essential
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Degree in Social Work or equivalent qualification
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Current Social Work England registration
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Completion of the ASYE program
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Valid UK driving license
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Proven ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines
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Strong organizational and case management skills
Desirable
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Experience within Multi Agency Safeguarding Hubs (MASH) or equivalent multidisciplinary teams
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Knowledge of local safeguarding protocols and partnership frameworks
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Skills in conflict resolution and trauma-informed practice
Northumberland County Council: A Forward-Thinking Employer
Northumberland County Council prides itself on its forward-thinking approach to social care and safeguarding. By embracing innovation and collaboration, the council continuously improves services and outcomes for adults at risk.
Conclusion: Join Northumberland County Council as a Social Worker
If you are a qualified, registered social worker passionate about adult safeguarding and ready to make a difference in the Northumberland community, this permanent, full-time role at Northumberland County Council is a prime opportunity. With competitive remuneration, excellent benefits, and a supportive work environment, it’s an ideal career move for social care professionals committed to excellence.
Apply now and become part of a dynamic team dedicated to safeguarding adults at risk and improving lives in Northumberland.