Social Worker – Learning Disability Team
Hybrid – approximately 40% of time working in the community and 60% office based.
Contract to start early September 2026.
We are seeking experienced Social Workers with post‑qualifying experience, qualified (BA/MA Social Work, DipSW, CQSW or CSS) and registered with Social Work England.
Responsibilities
* Carry out strength‑based assessments with adults and carers, identifying needs and eligibility under the Care Act 2014 across community, hospital and residential settings.
* Complete statutory and specialist assessments, including mental capacity, best interest and risk assessments, in line with relevant legislation and best practice.
* Manage a caseload appropriate to your experience and role, ensuring timely, person‑centred interventions that promote independence, wellbeing and choice.
* Review and monitor support plans to ensure services remain appropriate, effective and responsive to changing needs.
* Respond to duty work and urgent referrals, supporting adults at key points of risk or transition.
* Develop and coordinate care and support packages, including the use of Direct Payments and Self‑Directed Support, ensuring best use of resources while achieving positive outcomes.
* Chair and contribute to professional meetings, including safeguarding, case conferences and reviews, and prepare high‑quality reports for statutory and legal settings.
* Work collaboratively with colleagues, partner agencies and other professionals, while supporting the development of students and less‑experienced staff and maintaining professional standards set by Social Work England.
Qualifications
* Qualified Social Worker (BA/MA Social Work, DipSW, CQSW or CSS) with strong post‑qualifying experience and current registration with Social Work England.
* Full UK Driving Licence or access to mobility support.
* Sound knowledge of key adult social care legislation, including the Care Act, Mental Capacity Act, safeguarding frameworks, hospital discharge requirements and related guidance.
* Experience working with adults and carers who have physical disabilities, mental health needs and learning disabilities.
* Proven ability to undertake assessments, apply eligibility criteria and develop person‑centred support plans that promote independence, choice and wellbeing.
* Experience managing risk and contributing to safeguarding processes, using professional judgement to make timely, defensible decisions.
* Strong communication and relationship‑building skills, with the ability to work effectively with individuals, families, colleagues and partner agencies.
* Well‑developed organisational and IT skills, including accurate case recording, workload prioritisation and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
If successful, a DBS check and enhanced Disclosure will be required.
Benefits
* Competitive Salary.
* Outstanding Pension Scheme – local government pension benefits.
* Generous Annual Leave – 28 days (increasing to 32 days after 5 years, 2 of which can be fixed by the Council) with option to buy up to 10 extra days.
* Flexible Working Hours – up to 26 flexi days per year (subject to business needs).
* Hybrid & Flexible Working – support for a healthy work‑life balance.
* Learning & Development – access to training and progression opportunities.
* Health & Wellbeing Support – discounted gym memberships and mental health resources.
* Cycle to Work Scheme – tax‑efficient programme.
* Electric & Hybrid Car Scheme – salary‑sacrifice car scheme after 12 months service.
* Exclusive Discounts & Salary Sacrifice – via VIVUP platform for shopping, travel, white goods, electronics, etc., after 6 months service.
Equal Opportunities
We are an equal opportunities employer and aim to create a workplace where everyone feels belonging, respect and empowerment. 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. As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role. The Council reserves the right to close this vacancy early or adjust shortlisting criteria to ensure a fair and manageable recruitment process.
How to Apply
Apply online at the Gateshead Council recruitment portal.
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