At a Glance
- Tasks: Support adults with learning disabilities through assessments and tailored care plans.
- Company: Join a dedicated team making a real difference in the community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, flexible hours, and a strong pension scheme.
- Other info: Hybrid role with opportunities for professional development and support for less-experienced staff.
- Why this job: Empower individuals to achieve independence and wellbeing while growing your social work skills.
- Qualifications: Qualified Social Worker with experience in adult social care and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Hybrid – approximately 40% of time working in the community and 60% office based. Contract to start early September 2026.
We are seeking experienced Social Workers with post‑qualifying experience, qualified (BA/MA Social Work, DipSW, CQSW or CSS) and registered with Social Work England.
Responsibilities- Carry out strength‑based assessments with adults and carers, identifying needs and eligibility under the Care Act 2014 across community, hospital and residential settings.
- Complete statutory and specialist assessments, including mental capacity, best interest and risk assessments, in line with relevant legislation and best practice.
- Manage a caseload appropriate to your experience and role, ensuring timely, person‑centred interventions that promote independence, wellbeing and choice.
- Review and monitor support plans to ensure services remain appropriate, effective and responsive to changing needs.
- Respond to duty work and urgent referrals, supporting adults at key points of risk or transition.
- Develop and coordinate care and support packages, including the use of Direct Payments and Self‑Directed Support, ensuring best use of resources while achieving positive outcomes.
- Chair and contribute to professional meetings, including safeguarding, case conferences and reviews, and prepare high‑quality reports for statutory and legal settings.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues, partner agencies and other professionals, while supporting the development of students and less‑experienced staff and maintaining professional standards set by Social Work England.
- Qualified Social Worker (BA/MA Social Work, DipSW, CQSW or CSS) with strong post‑qualifying experience and current registration with Social Work England.
- Full UK Driving Licence or access to mobility support.
- Sound knowledge of key adult social care legislation, including the Care Act, Mental Capacity Act, safeguarding frameworks, hospital discharge requirements and related guidance.
- Experience working with adults and carers who have physical disabilities, mental health needs and learning disabilities.
- Proven ability to undertake assessments, apply eligibility criteria and develop person‑centred support plans that promote independence, choice and wellbeing.
- Experience managing risk and contributing to safeguarding processes, using professional judgement to make timely, defensible decisions.
- Strong communication and relationship‑building skills, with the ability to work effectively with individuals, families, colleagues and partner agencies.
- Well‑developed organisational and IT skills, including accurate case recording, workload prioritisation and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
If successful, a DBS check and enhanced Disclosure will be required.
Benefits- Competitive Salary.
- Outstanding Pension Scheme – local government pension benefits.
- Generous Annual Leave – 28 days (increasing to 32 days after 5 years, 2 of which can be fixed by the Council) with option to buy up to 10 extra days.
- Flexible Working Hours – up to 26 flexi days per year (subject to business needs).
Social Worker - Learning Disability Team employer: Gateshead Council
As a Social Worker in our Learning Disability Team, you will join a supportive and collaborative work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional development. With a competitive salary, outstanding pension scheme, and generous annual leave, we offer a fulfilling work-life balance while empowering you to make a meaningful impact in the community. Our commitment to flexible working hours and opportunities for growth ensures that you can thrive both personally and professionally in this rewarding role.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Social Worker - Learning Disability Team
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the social work field, attend local events, and join relevant online groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to social work. Think about your experiences with assessments and support plans, and be ready to share specific examples that highlight your skills and knowledge.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for social work! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, whether in person or virtually, let your enthusiasm shine through. Talk about why you love working with adults and how you can make a difference in their lives.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for talented individuals who are ready to make an impact in the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Social Worker - Learning Disability Team
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience and skills that match the job description. We want to see how your background in social work aligns with the needs of our Learning Disability Team.
Showcase Your Assessments Skills:Since you'll be carrying out strength-based assessments, include examples of your previous work in this area. We love seeing how you've made a difference in people's lives through effective assessments and support plans.
Highlight Collaboration Experience:Working collaboratively is key in this role. Share instances where you've successfully worked with colleagues, partner agencies, or other professionals. We value teamwork and want to know how you contribute to a positive working environment.
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 the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gateshead Council
✨Know Your Legislation
Brush up on key adult social care legislation like the Care Act and Mental Capacity Act. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you understand the framework within which you'll be working.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully managed caseloads or conducted assessments. This will help demonstrate your practical experience and how it aligns with the responsibilities of the role.
✨Emphasise Person-Centred Approaches
Be ready to talk about how you've implemented person-centred interventions in your previous work. Highlighting your commitment to promoting independence and wellbeing will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Practice Collaborative Scenarios
Think of instances where you've worked with other professionals or agencies. Be prepared to discuss how you contributed to meetings or case conferences, as teamwork is crucial in this role.
