At a Glance
- Tasks: Support adults with mental health conditions and disabilities in a collaborative environment.
- Company: Join Suffolk County Council, a modern council dedicated to making a positive impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while growing your career in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Must have a recognised Social Work qualification and registration with Social Work England.
- Other info: Open to all applicants, especially those from underrepresented groups.
The predicted salary is between 30700 - 35100 £ per year.
Join Suffolk County Council as a Social Worker – Mental Health and Learning Disabilities and Autism. We’re looking for a dedicated Social Worker to join our passionate team at Suffolk County Council. This is a rewarding opportunity to be part of a service that supports adults living with mental health conditions, learning disabilities, and/or autism.
In this role, you’ll work collaboratively with local communities and partner organisations to ensure individuals receive timely and appropriate support. Our teams are closely integrated with mental health services across Suffolk, operating in both community and inpatient settings.
You will play a key role in fulfilling our responsibilities under the Care Act, which includes:
- supporting hospital discharges
- delivering reablement services
- conducting Care Act assessments in the community
- leading safeguarding enquiries.
You will also work within the frameworks of the Care Act, the Mental Capacity Act, and the Mental Health Act. We’re committed to your professional growth. Our service offers extensive opportunities for Continued Professional Development (CPD), with experienced colleagues including Approved Mental Health Professionals (AMHPs), Best Interest Assessors (BIAs), and Practice Educators (PEs) who are eager to share their knowledge and support your development.
At Suffolk County Council, we’re driven by a shared vision of building brighter futures for the people we serve. If you’re passionate about making a difference and want to be part of a forward-thinking, supportive team, we’d love to hear from you.
What You Will Need
- a recognised qualification in Social Work
- registration with Social Work England (or confirmation that registration is pending if you’re newly qualified)
- a valid UK driving licence.
If you believe you can succeed in this role, apply. Even if you don't meet all requirements, still apply. We would appreciate the opportunity to consider your application.
Empowering Everyone
We’re big believers in potential, possibility and the power of different ideas. We’re always searching for ways to encourage, respect and enable everyone to be the best they can be. We want to represent the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all individuals, especially those from groups that are currently underrepresented in the organisation.
How To Apply
Step 1 - Read the Job and Person Profile (JPP). Step 2 - Click ‘Apply Now’ to start your online application. Step 3 - Upload a supporting statement indicating how you meet each of the criteria in the ‘Person Profile’ section of the JPP. You should use the Supporting Statement template. Please use Arial font size 11 and keep your statement to a maximum of two sides of A4. Please note: Without a supporting statement, your interest will not be progressed. Any supporting documents must be in either PDF or MS Word format.
If you would like an adjustment to this process due to a disability, please contact us. If you require any reasonable adjustments to the application process before the next selection stage, please contact our Recruitment Team.
This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts.
About Us
As a modern and effective council, we offer a wide variety of careers to suit people with a range of skills, abilities and ambitions. We offer working options that flex to reflect the way people work today and take the time to understand and support your individual needs. We’re driven to make a positive difference to the world around us and encourage everyone with drive and focus to join us and build an influential and impactful career.
In return, you’ll enjoy:
- up to 29 days annual leave entitlement (pro rata), plus UK bank holidays and two paid volunteering days
- membership of a competitive Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
- travel, lifestyle, health and wellbeing benefits
- performance-related annual pay progression, in addition to an annual cost-of-living pay increase
- training and encouragement to expand your knowledge
- a variety of career development opportunities across our organisation
- diverse and active staff networks
- flexible working options, with the right to request flexible working from your first day
Plus lots more!
Social Worker employer: Suffolk County Council
Contact Detail:
Suffolk County Council Recruiting Team
libby.nightingale@suffolk.gov.uk
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Social Worker
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Care Act, Mental Capacity Act, and Mental Health Act. Understanding these frameworks will not only help you in your role but also demonstrate your commitment to the responsibilities of a Social Worker during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees at Suffolk County Council. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights into the work culture and expectations, which can be beneficial when discussing your fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss real-life scenarios where you've successfully supported individuals with mental health conditions or learning disabilities. This practical experience will showcase your skills and passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Take advantage of the opportunity to have a casual conversation with Libby Nightingale before applying. This can help clarify any questions you have about the role and show your proactive approach to potential employers.
We think you need these skills to ace Social Worker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Job Requirements: Thoroughly read the Job and Person Profile (JPP) provided by Suffolk County Council. Make sure you understand the qualifications, skills, and experiences they are looking for in a Social Worker.
Craft Your Supporting Statement: Use the Supporting Statement template to detail how you meet each criterion in the Person Profile section. Be specific and provide examples from your experience that demonstrate your suitability for the role.
Format Your Application Correctly: Ensure your supporting statement is in Arial font size 11 and does not exceed two sides of A4. This attention to detail shows professionalism and respect for the application process.
Double-Check Your Documents: Before submitting, review all your documents for accuracy and completeness. Ensure that your supporting statement and any other required documents are in PDF or MS Word format, as specified.
How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk County Council
✨Understand the Role
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Social Worker at Suffolk County Council. Familiarise yourself with the Care Act, Mental Capacity Act, and Mental Health Act, as these will likely come up during your discussion.
✨Prepare Your Supporting Statement
Craft a clear and concise supporting statement that highlights how your qualifications and experiences align with the Person Profile criteria. Use the provided template and ensure it is well-structured, keeping it to a maximum of two sides of A4.
✨Showcase Your Passion
During the interview, express your passion for social work and your commitment to making a difference in the lives of individuals with mental health conditions, learning disabilities, and autism. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that demonstrate your dedication.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewers about the team dynamics, professional development opportunities, and the council's approach to community integration. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.