Job Description
Practice Consultant | 8652 | Permanent contract | £42,463 to £46,732 per annum (Scale K) | 37 hours per week | County Hall, Norwich
We offer a £2000 welcome payment for qualified and experienced Social Workers/Occupational Therapists (grade J and above), Practice Consultants, and Team Managers new to Norfolk County Council. This amount is to be repaid in full should they leave within two years of employment.
Who Cares? We do.
This is an exciting opportunity to join our service. The Emergency Duty Team is a small, bespoke service responding to out-of-hours emergencies, including adult social care, childcare, and assessments under the Mental Health Act.
Being an Approved Mental Health Professional would be advantageous for statutory work under the Mental Health Act; however, there will be training opportunities for this role if appointed (mandatory for working in the Emergency Duty Team). The team offers a great opportunity for Social Workers to practice generically, utilizing all skills and knowledge from training. Support and training will be provided to learn other areas of practice, whether your experience is in adult or child social care.
The team responds to emergencies that cannot wait until the next working day, such as Mental Health Act Assessments, child in need/child protection, and adult safeguarding/supporting vulnerable people to remain at home. Skills in triage, risk assessment, and prioritization are essential, along with excellent communication skills in all forms—verbal, electronic, and written. Confidence and competence in IT are also crucial, as this is a key communication method with daytime colleagues.
While management support is available 24/7, overnight shifts require skill, experience, and the ability to work autonomously. Therefore, a minimum of 3 years post-qualifying experience and the first year ASYE/NIPE as a newly qualified Social Worker are required.
The team covers over 126 hours a week, with shifts varying in the evening, night, weekend, and bank holiday hours. Bank holidays are paid at double time, and weekend work attracts a premium of a third on top of the main salary.
What We Offer
Norfolk County Council is committed to learning and development, offering all Social Workers and Occupational Therapists a protected half-day per month for CPD and training. We promote a healthy work-life balance, flexible working, and modern technology to support remote collaboration. Good broadband connectivity is required.
We operate a talent pool scheme for candidates not successful initially, allowing consideration for up to 3 months for similar roles. Details on rewards, benefits, and terms are available on our website.
Your application
Please include a statement demonstrating how you meet the person specification and job description. CVs without a supporting statement will not be accepted. Registration with Social Work England or HCPC as a practicing social worker or Occupational Therapist is required.
For more information, click the link below or contact Team Managers: Janet Melville 01603 308658, Jo Felgate 01603 638216.
Benefits include:
* Competitive salary
* Generous holiday entitlement
* Health and Wellbeing services
* Flexible working options
* Employee discounts via Norfolk Rewards
* Blue Light card
* Relocation expenses (if applicable)
* Travel expense advances
* LGPS pension scheme
* Tax-efficient schemes for bikes and pensions
* Car lease scheme for low-emission vehicles
* Referral bonuses
Review the full Job Description and Person Specification before applying. Internal applicants can apply via myOracle.
Note: Priority consideration may be given to current employees at risk or in redeployment. Closing dates: redeployment - 28 July 2025, others - 4 August 2025.
About Norfolk: a vibrant county with a rich cultural heritage, growing economy, and excellent environment for living and working.
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