At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide specialist mental health support and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.
- Company: Join a supportive team at Essex County Council, rated 'Good' by CQC.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, 27 days leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while growing your career in social work.
- Qualifications: Registered Social Worker with mental health experience and strong relationship-building skills.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace committed to professional growth and community impact.
The predicted salary is between 37185 - 50081 £ per year.
This position is open to Newly Qualified Social Workers with relevant experience in Mental Health. The role provides specialist mental health support as a Social Worker within our partnership organisation under the Section 75 partnership agreement. You will be expected to provide reports for the Mental Health Review Tribunal, liaise with external agencies such as the MoJ and MAPPA, and work collaboratively with fellow social workers, the wider MDT, other agencies and community teams.
The role will involve working with patients both male and female across the seven wards, assisting with debts, benefits, and any other practical issues they may have to ensure that they are equipped for discharge and integration back into the community.
This is an exciting opportunity to join our Forensic Mental Health Team based at Brockfield House in Wickford, which is a medium/low secure unit. Working collaboratively with fellow social workers and the wider multidisciplinary team, you will be part of a partnership that provides specialist support to our patients.
If you share our vision, enjoy meeting people and hearing their stories, and are a Social Worker registered with Social Work England with experience in mental health, we’d love to hear from you. You’ll have a broad understanding of our statutory responsibilities and a commitment to meeting these in a person-centred way. Experience of chairing meetings and the ability to develop strong relationships with partner agencies and the local community are also important. A driving licence and car (or the ability to meet the mobility requirements of the role through other means) is essential.
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 have a continuing professional development offer that’s second to none. We welcome diversity and are committed to becoming a fully inclusive and 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 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
As part of employment with Essex County Council, a DBS check may be required. If your role requires a DBS check you will be required to register with the DBS update service. This is an annual subscription and you will be responsible for ensuring this is maintained.
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 – Forensic Mental Health in Wickford employer: Essex County Council
Contact Detail:
Essex County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Adults Social Worker – Forensic Mental Health in Wickford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the social work field, especially those who have experience in forensic mental health. They might know about job openings or can even refer you directly to hiring managers.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of mental health legislation and best practices. We recommend practising common interview questions with a friend or mentor to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for social work during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in your previous roles, especially in mental health settings. This will help you stand out from the crowd!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the latest opportunities tailored to your skills and interests.
We think you need these skills to ace Adults Social Worker – Forensic Mental Health in Wickford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience in mental health and social work. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your strengths!
Be Person-Centred: Remember, this role is all about supporting individuals. Use your application to demonstrate your commitment to person-centred care and how you’ve successfully worked with diverse groups in the past.
Showcase Collaboration Skills: Since you'll be working closely with other professionals, it’s important to highlight your teamwork abilities. Share examples of how you've collaborated with multidisciplinary teams or external agencies in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Essex County Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of forensic mental health and the specific responsibilities of an Adults Social Worker. Familiarise yourself with relevant legislation and best practices, as well as the role's requirements. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience in mental health settings, especially any work with vulnerable adults. Think of specific examples where you've made a positive impact, whether through direct support or collaboration with other agencies. This will demonstrate your ability to handle the challenges of the role.
✨Practice Your People Skills
As a social worker, strong interpersonal skills are crucial. Be ready to showcase your ability to build relationships with patients, colleagues, and external agencies. Consider role-playing common scenarios with a friend to practice how you would approach difficult conversations or chair meetings effectively.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few insightful questions prepared about the team dynamics, ongoing professional development opportunities, or the organisation's approach to diversity and inclusion. This shows that you're not only interested in the job but also in how you can contribute to and grow within the team.