At a Glance
- Tasks: Support adults with learning disabilities and autism to develop independence and progress.
- Company: Essex County Council, a leader in disability confidence and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Flexible working, 27 days leave, professional development, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for community impact and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while growing your social work career.
- Qualifications: Registered with Social Work England, experience with adults with learning disabilities or autism.
The predicted salary is between 38487 - 51834 € per year.
Permanent, full-time. Salary: £38,487 to £51,834 per annum (starting salary for new qualified social workers: £36,124, rising to £38,487 after ASYE programme). Location: Countywide across Essex. Working style: Anywhere worker. Interviews will be held on 28th May 2026.
Responsibilities
- Work closely with adults placed in supported living accommodation and residential care, and with providers, family members and advocates to undertake Care Act reviews aimed at developing independence and progress.
- Provide relationship‑based social work, focusing on building independence through a positive approach to risk and a strengths‑based model.
- Collaborate with adults, providers and partner agencies to support learning disability/autism clients across Essex, including out-of-county placements.
- Travel around Essex—a valid driving licence and car or alternative transport arrangements are essential.
Qualifications & Experience
- Registered with Social Work England and experienced in working with adults with learning disability and/or autism.
- Broad understanding of statutory responsibilities and a commitment to person‑centred practice.
- Experience chairing meetings and developing strong relationships with partner agencies and the local community.
- Experience of the ASYE programme is an advantage; newly qualified social workers (NQSW) are welcome.
Benefits
- Ongoing opportunities for continuing professional development.
- Flexible working options.
- Employee wellbeing and counselling support.
- Lease car scheme.
- Life assurance of three times annual salary.
- Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)—see key facts and FAQs.
- Volunteering leave.
- 27 days annual leave (plus bank holidays), increasing with service.
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)—free confidential support.
- Employee Networks—communities to support and influence change at ECC.
- Payment of your Social Work England registration fees.
Employment Requirements
- Must have a DBS check. If the role requires a DBS check, you will be required to register with the DBS update service and keep the certificate up to date.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Essex County Council is proud to be a Disability Confident Leader and is committed to interviewing all disabled applicants who meet the minimum requirements. We also interview all veterans and care leavers who meet the minimum requirements. We welcome diversity and are committed to becoming a fully inclusive and anti-racist organisation.
Adults Social Worker – Enhanced Social Care Support for LD & Autism (Out-Reach) in Chelmsford employer: Essex County Council
Essex County Council is an exceptional employer for Adults Social Workers, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional development. With flexible working options, generous annual leave, and a commitment to diversity, employees can thrive while making a meaningful impact in the lives of adults with learning disabilities and autism across Essex.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Adults Social Worker – Enhanced Social Care Support for LD & Autism (Out-Reach) in Chelmsford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the social work field, especially those who have experience with learning disabilities and autism. They might know about opportunities that aren't advertised yet or can give you a heads-up on what to expect in interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by researching the organisation and its values. Understand their approach to person-centred practice and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their mission. We want to see your passion for supporting adults with learning disabilities and autism!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills in relationship-building during the interview. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with families, providers, and partner agencies in the past. This is key for the role, so let us see your strengths in action!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team and making a difference in the lives of those we support across Essex.
We think you need these skills to ace Adults Social Worker – Enhanced Social Care Support for LD & Autism (Out-Reach) in Chelmsford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with adults with learning disabilities and autism. We want to see how your skills align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Strengths:Use specific examples to demonstrate your relationship-based social work approach. We love to see how you’ve built independence and supported clients through a strengths-based model in your previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key achievements and qualifications stand out without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Essex County Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the Care Act and the principles of person-centred practice. Understanding how to support adults with learning disabilities and autism is crucial, so be ready to discuss your experience and how it aligns with the role.
✨Showcase Your Relationship Skills
This role involves working closely with various stakeholders. Prepare examples of how you've built strong relationships in the past, whether with clients, families, or partner agencies. Highlight your experience chairing meetings and collaborating effectively.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and approach to risk. Think about real-life scenarios where you've had to make tough decisions or advocate for a client’s independence. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Development
Talk about your ongoing professional development and any training you've undertaken, especially related to learning disabilities and autism. If you're a newly qualified social worker, share your enthusiasm for the ASYE programme and how it has prepared you for this role.
