At a Glance
- Tasks: Support adults with learning disabilities and autism to achieve their goals and independence.
- Company: Join a passionate team at Essex County Council making a real difference in the community.
- Benefits: Flexible working, professional development, 27 days leave, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for career growth and meaningful impact.
- Why this job: Be part of an innovative team that champions advocacy and community engagement.
- Qualifications: Qualified Social Worker with experience in assessments and safeguarding practices.
The predicted salary is between 51834 - 51834 £ per year.
This is a part-time position for 18.5 hours per week, worked over two full days and one half day. While there is flexibility around the working pattern, one of the working days must be either a Monday or Thursday to enable regular office-based working with colleagues. The pro rata’d salary range is £19,243 to £25,917 per annum.
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 Team
This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate and experienced Social Worker to join an innovative and award-winning Learning Disability and Autism Team covering West Essex. The team strives to improve outcomes for people with learning disabilities and/or autism through the work we do. Working with community groups, family and carers you will ensure advocacy for people with learning disability and/or autism. We take a person-centred approach to practice and support adults with achieving their goals and ambitions, while also meeting their social care needs. This is achieved through direct work, multi-disciplinary approaches, collaboration and building local community links.
Most notably the team hosted the learning disability festival, focusing on bringing visibility to individuals with learning disabilities, showcasing our commitment to partnership working and being creative in our roles. Joining a Learning Disability & Autism team at Essex means you will be working in a supportive and innovative environment enabling you to develop your own ideas to make meaningful changes to the Adult's lives. The achievements with the team truly make a difference in the adults lives we work with and take a step towards changing the opportunities and outcomes for adults in our local community.
About You
- Is a qualified and experienced 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.
Why Join Us?
In June 2025, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) rated our Adult Social Care services as “Good” with a score of 73%. Our teams are busy but warm, friendly and supportive. Our fabulous team managers will help you manage your workload and develop your practice. We take your career just as seriously as you do, and we have a continuing professional development offer that’s second to none. We welcome diversity because it makes us grow and we’re determined to become a fully inclusive and an anti-racist organisation.
What We Offer
- Ongoing opportunities for continuing professional development.
- Flexible working options.
- Employee wellbeing and counselling.
- Lease Car scheme.
- Life assurance of three times annual salary.
- Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Volunteering leave.
- 27 days annual leave (plus bank holidays), rising with service.
- 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!
Whatever you want to achieve in your social work career, you can do it here. Apply now.
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.
Adults Social Worker – Learning Disability & Autism in Harlow employer: Essex County Council
Essex County Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises the well-being of its employees while making a meaningful impact in the lives of children and young people. With flexible working arrangements and opportunities for professional development, staff are encouraged to grow within their roles, all while contributing to a vital service in the heart of Chelmsford.
