Adults Social Worker - Neighbourhood Team (Mid Essex), Chelmsford

Interviews will be held in person at County Hall, Chelmsford on 18th May 2026. Our teams are proud to offer hybrid working, with an expectation to be office based at our office in Chelmsford around 2 to 3 days per week depending on business need for collaborative team working and training.

We're an adult social care service that wants to see citizens of Essex have as much choice and control over the way they live their lives as possible. We think everyone should have the chance to live a full and fulfilling life with people they love and care about, doing things that matter to them and living in a place they can call home. We're determined that with the right support, everyone can maintain or achieve some independence and we're proud to be working to make these ambitions a reality.

Our Social Workers work alongside people and their families and carers to help them think through what might help them get on with their lives in the way that works best for them. We do this within the framework of our statutory Care Act requirements. This means many of our conversations are framed as 'assessments', 'reviews', 'support planning' and 'safeguarding'. But our aim is always to listen and understand what matters to the person and then to work with them to think through how this might be achieved.

About the Role

We are seeking a passionate and experienced Social Worker to join our Maldon Central Neighbourhood Team. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a locality based, strengths focused service that supports adults to remain independent, safe, and connected within their communities.

The team work with people aged 18 and above across all specialisms, undertaking a wide range of duties under the Care Act 2014 from assessment, reviews, mental capacity assessments and adult safeguarding.

As a Social Worker in the Maldon Central Neighbourhood Team, you will:

• Undertake Care Act‑compliant assessments, reviews, and support planning.
• Work with adults with a range of needs, including older people, physical disabilities, learning disabilities, mental health needs, and safeguarding concerns.
• Apply strengths‑based and person‑centred approaches to promote independence and wellbeing.
• Participate in safeguarding enquiries in line with Section 42 of the Care Act.
• Work collaboratively with health colleagues, voluntary sector partners, and wider MDTs.
• Manage a varied caseload while maintaining professional standards and high‑quality practice.

About You

We are looking for someone who:

• Is a qualified Social Worker (post ASYE) with current Social Work England registration.
• Has a sound understanding of the Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act, and safeguarding practice.
• Demonstrates strong assessment, risk management, and decision‑making skills.
• Is confident working autonomously while contributing positively to a supportive team culture.
• Is committed to reflective practice, learning, and continuous professional development.
• Has experience of chairing meetings.
• Is able to develop strong relationships with partner agencies and the local community.

Our Social Worker roles involve travelling around Essex. A driving licence and car - or the ability to meet the mobility requirements of the role through other means - is essential.

What We Offer

• Manageable caseloads with supportive management oversight.
• Regular supervision and opportunities for reflective practice.
• Ongoing training, CPD, and career development.
• A collaborative neighbourhood‑based working model.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) - access to free and confidential information, support, and guidance from a team of highly qualified professionals.
• Employee Networks - communities to support you, connect you and help influence change at ECC.