At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct assessments, manage caseloads, and support colleagues in a dynamic mental health team.
- Company: Join a supportive team dedicated to mental health and substance misuse, focused on continuous improvement.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, including remote work and ongoing training opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in people's lives while working in a collaborative and innovative environment.
- Qualifications: Must have a Social Work qualification and be registered with Social Work England.
- Other info: Work across Hampshire with a mix of office and community-based tasks.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
Joining our Mental Health and Substance Misuse Team as a qualified and experienced Social Worker, you’ll be innovative, person-centred and committed to working in a strengths-based way. You’ll enjoy working in a team that thrives on supporting each other, sharing experiences and learnings to encourage continuous improvement. We have varied experience and backgrounds across the team, with regular opportunities for training and ongoing development.
What you’ll be doing:
- Conducting comprehensive assessments of individuals' needs and available support.
- Managing a complex caseload whilst providing supervision for Case Workers and Senior Case Workers and practice advice on complex cases.
- Participating in duty to triage urgent cases as well as triaging safeguarding referrals and making informed decisions.
- Liaising with colleagues in Health to facilitate hospital discharges.
- Holding forensic cases and working closely with the Ministry of Justice.
What we’re looking for:
- Social Work qualification and registered with Social Work England (SWE).
- Due to the needs of the team, we’re unable to consider Newly Qualified Social Workers for this post.
- A sound understanding of how to apply a strengths-based approach.
- Understanding of social work issues, legal frameworks and social services’ statutory duties.
- Commitment to demonstrating our values and behaviours, showing compassion, empathy and respect.
This role is based across Hampshire in the four Mental Health Team bases (Totton, Basingstoke, Havant and Andover). You will spend 20% of your week working in one of our four offices and the remaining 80% working in the community or remotely from home. Your work location will be flexible depending on the demands on the service.
Applicants can expect to hear from us within two weeks of the advertised closing date.
Social Worker (Mental Health) employer: Hampshire County Council
Contact Detail:
Hampshire County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Social Worker (Mental Health)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the strengths-based approach to social work, as this is a key focus for us. Be prepared to discuss how you've applied this method in your previous roles during any interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees in our Mental Health and Substance Misuse Team. They can provide insights into the team dynamics and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach when you apply.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on current social work issues and legal frameworks relevant to mental health. This knowledge will not only enhance your understanding but also demonstrate your commitment to the field during discussions with us.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare examples of how you've managed complex caseloads and provided supervision in past roles. Being able to articulate these experiences will show us that you're ready for the responsibilities of this position.
We think you need these skills to ace Social Worker (Mental Health)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Social Worker position. Familiarise yourself with the strengths-based approach and how it applies to mental health and substance misuse.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight your relevant experience in social work, particularly in mental health. Emphasise your qualifications, registration with Social Work England, and any specific training or skills that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for social work and your commitment to person-centred care. Use specific examples from your past experiences to demonstrate how you meet the criteria outlined in the job description.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise. A polished application reflects your professionalism and attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hampshire County Council
✨Showcase Your Strengths-Based Approach
Be prepared to discuss how you apply a strengths-based approach in your practice. Share specific examples from your experience that highlight your ability to empower individuals and focus on their strengths.
✨Demonstrate Team Collaboration
Since the role involves working within a supportive team, emphasise your experience in collaborative environments. Talk about how you've contributed to team success and supported colleagues in managing complex cases.
✨Understand Legal Frameworks
Brush up on relevant legal frameworks and statutory duties related to social work. Be ready to discuss how these impact your decision-making and case management, especially in safeguarding and triaging urgent cases.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and judgement. Think through potential situations you might face in this role and how you would handle them, particularly regarding forensic cases and hospital discharges.