This social worker post sits on the older adults' mental health inpatient wards at Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, supporting people with functional mental health needs. The core work is social care assessment, Care Act and Carer assessments, mental capacity input and discharge planning, arranging care packages, placements and Section 117 aftercare. It carries delegated adult social care responsibilities under a Section 75 agreement with Hertfordshire County Council, and may include supervising newly qualified social workers. Social Work England registration is needed.
What the job involves
- Lead discharge planning from admission, coordinating timely and safe discharges and removing barriers
- Arrange support such as domiciliary care, residential and nursing placements, supported living, reablement, equipment and Section 117 aftercare
- Carry out Care Act assessments and reviews, determining eligibility for care and support
- Undertake Carer Assessments
- Undertake Mental Capacity Assessments and contribute to Best Interests decisions
- Undertake safeguarding enquiries and contribute to safeguarding plans
- Contribute to risk assessment and management that balances protection, independence and least restrictive practice
- Advise MDT colleagues on social care legislation, NHS Continuing Healthcare, ordinary residence and charging
- Represent social work at MDT meetings, ward rounds and discharge forums
- Provide advice and advocacy to service users, carers and families
- Maintain accurate records, statutory documentation and professional reports, and contribute to audits and quality improvement
- Take part in supervision and CPD, and support students, newly qualified social workers and ASYE
What’s required
Qualifications
- Appropriate professional social work qualification
- Education to degree level
- Training in outcomes focused assessment, personalisation and strengths-based practice
- Training and experience in safeguarding
Registration & licences
- Social Work England registration
Experience
- Post qualification experience
- Knowledge of legislation, theory and policy for older adults with functional mental health needs
- Experience of Care Act assessments focused on personalisation, choice, control and care planning
- Experience of undertaking Carer Assessments
- Experience of discharge planning and coordinating care arrangements
Skills & knowledge
- Knowledge of Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act 2005 and relevant mental health legislation
- Knowledge of discharge planning and social care pathways
Nice to have
- Relevant post-qualifying social work training
- Approved Mental Health Professional or Best Interests Assessor training
- Practice Educator qualification
- Experience in older adult mental health services
- Experience in mental health inpatient settings
- Experience of Section 117 aftercare, Continuing Healthcare or ordinary residence issues
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Discharge and Community Liaison Social Worker in Hertford employer: Bidvane
The Medical Centre is an exceptional employer for General Practitioners, offering a supportive work environment across two sites with a strong focus on patient-centred care. With flexible session options and a commitment to professional development, employees benefit from a collaborative team culture that values continuous learning and quality improvement. Located in a vibrant community, the practice provides unique opportunities to engage with diverse patient needs while enjoying the advantages of NHS pension and comprehensive employment benefits.
