QE Hospital Social Worker – 6 month contract.
Be the bridge between hospital and home for Gateshead residents.
Join a dynamic and purpose-driven Hospital Discharge Team at the QE Hospital, where your expertise as a Social Worker will make a difference every day. In this fast‑paced role, you will play a vital part in supporting Gateshead residents to transition safely and effectively from hospital to home or onward care, using trusted assessments and person‑centred approaches.
Responsibilities
* Carry out strengths‑based assessments with adults and their carers across a range of settings, including hospitals, community environments, and residential or nursing placements. You will use trusted assessment approaches and Care Act principles to identify needs and achieve positive outcomes.
* Undertake specialist assessments where required, including mental capacity, best interests, and risk assessments, ensuring all work is compliant with relevant legislation such as the Mental Capacity Act 2005.
* Manage a dynamic caseload, prioritising effectively to meet competing demands and responding to urgent referrals as part of duty responsibilities.
* Review care and support arrangements to ensure continued eligibility, appropriateness, and value, adapting plans as individuals’ needs and circumstances change.
* Develop and coordinate tailored care packages that promote independence and choice, including the use of Direct Payments and Self‑Directed Support, while ensuring effective use of resources.
* Lead and contribute to multi‑agency working, chairing meetings such as case conferences and safeguarding discussions, and working collaboratively with partners to deliver joined‑up support.
* Support learning and development within the team by sharing your knowledge and contributing to the progression of students, newly qualified social workers, and colleagues.
* Maintain high professional standards, adhering to Social Work England requirements, keeping accurate records, and committing to ongoing professional development.
* Work safely and responsibly, ensuring compliance with health and safety policies while delivering high‑quality, person‑centred care.
Qualifications & Experience
* Social Work qualification (i.e. MA or BA in Social Work, Dip SW CQSW or CSS, or equivalent).
* Current registration with Social Work England.
* Full UK Driving Licence or access to mobility support.
* Strong knowledge and application of key legislation, including the Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act 2005, Safeguarding Adults, and Hospital Discharge Guidance.
* Proven experience of working with adults and carers, including those with physical disabilities, mental health needs, and learning disabilities, delivering person‑centred, strengths‑based support.
* Demonstrable assessment skills, including analysing complex information, managing risk, and identifying appropriate services to meet eligible needs.
* Experience of managing a varied caseload, with the ability to prioritise effectively and respond to competing and urgent demands in a fast‑paced environment.
* A collaborative and proactive approach, able to work independently while also building effective partnerships with colleagues and multi‑agency professionals.
* Strong communication and IT skills, with the ability to maintain accurate, timely records and clearly evidence decision‑making.
If successful, this role requires a DBS and you will have to apply for an enhanced Disclosure.
Benefits
* Competitive Salary: We offer fair and transparent pay that reflects your skills and experience.
* Outstanding Pension Scheme: We invest in your future – find out more about the Local Government Pension at https://twpf.info.
* Generous Annual Leave: Enjoy 28 days of annual leave, rising to 32 days after 5 years (2 of which can be fixed by the Council), plus the option to buy up to 10 extra days.
* Flexible Working Hours: Benefit from up to 26 flexi days per year (subject to business needs), giving you more control over your time.
* Hybrid & Flexible Working: We support a healthy work‑life balance with flexible and hybrid working options.
* Learning & Development: Access a wide range of training, development, and progression opportunities to help you grow your career.
* Health & Wellbeing Support: From discounted gym memberships through our partner GLL to mental health resources, we care about your wellbeing.
* Cycle to Work Scheme: Save money and stay active with our tax‑efficient cycle to work programme.
* Electric & Hybrid Car Scheme: Get behind the wheel of a brand‑new electric or hybrid vehicle through our salary sacrifice car scheme in partnership with NHS Fleet Solutions (after 12 months service).
* Exclusive Discounts & Salary Sacrifice: Through our VIVUP employee benefits platform, enjoy discounts on shopping, travel, and services – plus salary sacrifice options on white goods, electronics, and more, helping you spread the cost of essential purchases (after 6 months service).
Our Commitment to You
We are an equal opportunities employer and aim to have a culture and a workplace where our people feel a sense of belonging, are respected and empowered to do their best work. We welcome applications from suitably qualified people from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation.
How to Apply
You can apply online using the apply now button below. Within the form, you’ll be asked for details about you, your career history, skills, experiences and qualifications. If you have any questions about your application, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our recruitment team via recruitment@gateshead.gov.uk.
Please note: As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role. In high‑volume recruitment situations, we may need to prioritise those who best meet the essential criteria. The Council reserves the right to close this vacancy early or adjust the shortlisting criteria, including the pass mark for interview selection, to ensure a fair and manageable recruitment process.
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