Deputy Lead Social Worker – Forensic Mental Health
Location: West Berkshire
Salary: Up to £52,000 + Excellent Benefits
Contract Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Are you a qualified Social Worker with leadership experience in secure mental health settings? Ready to join a forward-thinking organisation where your development is prioritised and your impact is recognised?
An established independent healthcare provider is seeking a Deputy Lead Social Worker for one of its specialist mental health services in West Berkshire. This role offers an excellent opportunity to support service users on their recovery journey while mentoring a small team and helping shape clinical best practice.
About the Role
In this senior position, you’ll support the delivery of high-quality social work within a secure and structured environment. The service supports adults with complex mental health needs across several wards, including secure and acute care settings.
As Deputy Lead, you’ll manage your own caseload while supervising junior team members, contributing to safeguarding and capacity decisions, and working closely with the wider multidisciplinary team.
Key Responsibilities
* Provide supervision, mentorship, and appraisal to social work colleagues
* Lead on adult safeguarding, capacity assessments, and best interest decisions
* Coordinate key processes including CPAs, tribunals, and discharge planning
* Liaise with external stakeholders such as social care, MAPPA, police, and probation
* Deliver safeguarding training and contribute to audit and quality initiatives
* Support families and carers throughout the care pathway
What You’ll Need
* A recognised qualification in Social Work
* Registration with Social Work England
* Experience within forensic, secure, or complex mental health services
* A strong understanding of safeguarding and capacity legislation
* Confident communication and a collaborative leadership style
What’s on Offer
* Salary up to £52,000
* 33 days annual leave including bank holidays, plus your birthday off
* Free on-site meals and parking
* Comprehensive wellbeing programme
* Company pension and life assurance
* Enhanced maternity benefits
* Career development opportunities with access to funded training
* Staff discounts, car leasing options, and more