Are you ready to make a real, positive impact in the lives of adults with learning disabilities? Join East Sussex County Council's Community Learning Disability Service, where you can help adults live independent, fulfilled lives within their communities. Our team works across both Hastings and Uckfield offices, providing a supportive, multidisciplinary environment that prioritises strengths‑based practice and person‑centred care. You will manage complex caseloads, prioritise cases with Court of Protection deadlines and safeguarding needs, and act as Lead Enquiry Officer in Section 42 Safeguarding Enquiries under the Care Act 2014. You will apply the Mental Capacity Act (MCA) in practice, make Best Interests decisions, and contribute to community Deprivation of Liberty (DoL) assessments and applications to the Court of Protection (S21A/S16). The role involves working collaboratively with partner agencies, legal teams and health professionals, attending court where required and potentially applying transferable legal experience such as Mental Health Tribunals or Magistrates Court warrants.
Key Responsibilities
* Manage complex caseloads of adults with learning disabilities, prioritising Court of Protection deadlines and safeguarding needs.
* Act as Lead Enquiry Officer in Section 42 Safeguarding Enquiries under the Care Act 2014.
* Apply the Mental Capacity Act (MCA), make Best Interests decisions and contribute to community Deprivation of Liberty (DoL) assessments and Court of Protection applications (S21A/S16).
* Collaborate with partner agencies, legal teams and health professionals, attending court when required.
* Utilise transferable legal experience such as Mental Health Tribunals or Magistrates Court warrants.
Qualifications
* Registered Social Worker with proven post‑qualifying experience in adult social care.
* In‑depth understanding of the Mental Capacity Act, Best Interests decision‑making, and legal authority in tenancy and finances.
* Experience with Court of Protection processes and timelines.
* Desirable: BIA trained or PEPS accredited; knowledge of the Mental Health Act 1983.
* Resilience and flexibility to manage a dynamic, complex caseload.
* Ability to meet the travel requirements across East Sussex, including rural areas.
Benefits
* Strong focus on person‑centred, strengths‑based social work.
* Opportunities to shape decision‑making in areas such as Best Interests, community Deprivation of Liberty, and the Mental Capacity Act.
* Chance to work on Court of Protection (COP) applications, including Section 21A and Section 16.
* Hybrid working arrangements.
* Supportive team and professional development opportunities, including pathways to roles such as Best Interests Assessor (BIA) and Practice Educator Professional Standards (PEPS).
* Generous annual leave and family‑friendly policies.
* Extensive employee benefits and wellbeing support.
* Ongoing training and CPD.
We offer a diverse range of benefits to help and support you during your employment. More information can be found on our website. For an informal discussion, email Scott Templeman, Operations Manager, and he will be happy to arrange a call to answer any questions. For work that makes a difference, choose East Sussex!
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