Adults Social Worker – Neighbourhood Team (Mid Essex)

Interviews will be held in person at County Hall, Chelmsford on 18th May 2026.

Hybrid Working

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.

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 works 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.
• Payment of your Social Work England registration fees.

Once you've secured your role within Essex County Council you will receive many great employee benefits, including support for unpaid carers and flexible working arrangements to accommodate their needs.

Disability Confidence and Equality

Essex County Council is proud to be a Disability Confident Leader. We’re committed to interview all disabled applicants who choose to apply under our Job Interview Scheme if they meet the minimum requirements of the job. Please speak to our Recruiters if you require any reasonable adjustments during the process. We’re also committed to interview all veterans and care leavers, who meet the minimum requirements of the role for which they are applying.

Recruitment and DBS

As part of employment with Essex County Council (ECC), should your role require a DBS check you will be required to register with the DBS update service. The DBS update service ensures all registered DBS certificates are kept up to date and allows authorised parties to view the status of your certificate. This is an annual subscription, and you will be responsible for ensuring this is maintained.

Safeguarding

Essex County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment. If you have queries on this role or require anything further, please email Abbie.Mollison@essex.gov.uk.