At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals with learning disabilities and autism to reintegrate into their communities.
- Company: Join the Homes not Hospitals Team, dedicated to improving lives and reducing inequalities.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, including remote options, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: This role requires travel across a wide area; training will be provided for specific assessments.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in people's lives while working in a supportive and dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Must be a registered Social Worker with experience in social care and risk assessment.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Overview
We are a specialist social work team within an Integrated Adolescent Service in Kent, recognized for our focus on supporting adolescents who are at risk of exploitation, contextual harm and complex family situations. Our aim is to provide intensive, trauma‑informed, solution‑focused support to young people and their families, working in partnership with key local agencies.
Responsibilities
As a member of the Adolescent Social Work team, you will:
- Deliver intensive support to adolescents and their families, helping them develop long‑term strategies for managing relationships and overcoming risks.
- Provide safe alternatives for young people who cannot remain at home, coordinating with families and wider networks.
- Work within a flexible, mobile role across a wide operational area, transporting clients and equipment as required.
- Engage in regular supervision, attend specialist adolescent training, and contribute to working groups, multi‑agency forums, and case audits.
- Collaborate with a team that includes newly qualified social workers, experienced practitioners, and social work assistants, supporting each other’s development.
Qualifications
We are looking for practitioners who:
- Hold a degree in social work (CQSW, DipSW or equivalent).
- Are registered with Social Work England.
- Have experience working with children and families, especially in systemic practice.
- Understand legislative and policy frameworks and are willing to learn and develop.
- Demonstrate resilience, persistence, solution‑focus, and an ability to build positive relationships with adolescents and carers.
Benefits
Our offer includes:
- 30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and one concessionary day.
- Retention package up to £3,000 per annum after a qualifying period.
- Car allowance of £2,000 per annum.
- Possible golden hello payment of up to £3,000 in specific circumstances.
- Flexible working arrangements, including home working and flexible hours.
About the Company
KCC is committed to building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the county's working residents, encouraging applications from people of all ages, abilities, genders, sexual orientations, ethnic backgrounds, faiths and those with caring responsibilities. This commitment ensures an inclusive workplace where everyone can be themselves at work. As part of a customer‑facing role, the council requires post holders to have a command of spoken English sufficient to perform the job effectively.
Contact
For an informal discussion or to find out more, please contact:
- Sara Fletcher – AST West 1 team manager – Sara.Fletcher@kent.gov.uk
- Rebecca Keogh – AST West 2 team manager – Rebecca.Keogh@kent.gov.uk
- Jade James – AST North team manager – Jade.James2@kent.gov.uk
Social Worker in Maidstone employer: Kent County Council
Kent County Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises the well-being and development of its staff. With opportunities for professional growth in the health and social care sector, employees can make a meaningful impact in the lives of adults with disabilities while enjoying the benefits of working in a community-focused environment on the beautiful Isle of Sheppey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Social Worker in Maidstone
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Homes Not Hospitals initiative and its objectives. Understanding the specific challenges faced by individuals with learning disabilities and autism will help you demonstrate your commitment and knowledge during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the social care sector, especially those who have experience working with learning disabilities or autism. Attend relevant workshops or seminars to build connections and gain insights that could be beneficial for your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with risk assessment and mitigation strategies. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully navigated complex situations in your previous roles, as this will showcase your ability to handle the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
✨Tip Number 4
Highlight your flexibility and willingness to travel when discussing your suitability for the role. Since the position requires working across a wide geographical area, demonstrating your readiness to adapt to different environments will make you a more attractive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Social Worker in Maidstone
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Read the job description and person specification thoroughly. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities, required qualifications, and the specific skills needed for the Social Worker position.
Tailor Your CV:Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in social work, particularly with individuals who have learning disabilities or autism. Emphasise your ability to assess needs, manage caseloads, and collaborate with health and third sector partners.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for social work and your understanding of the Homes Not Hospitals initiative. Include specific examples of how you've supported individuals in similar situations and how you can contribute to the team.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. Ensure that all information is clear and concise, as this reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Kent County Council
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and person specification. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities, such as assessing social care needs and undertaking Mental Capacity assessments, so you can discuss how your experience aligns with these requirements.
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
Prepare examples from your past work that demonstrate your ability to handle complexity and diversity, particularly in relation to learning disabilities and autism. Highlight any specific cases where you successfully developed aftercare plans or worked alongside health and third sector partners.
✨Emphasise Your Approach
Be ready to discuss your strengths and rights-based approaches to social work. Share how you support individuals in reintegrating into their communities and improving their quality of life, as this aligns closely with the values of the Homes Not Hospitals Team.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Anticipate scenario-based questions that may assess your decision-making skills and ability to mitigate risks. Think about how you would approach various situations involving vulnerable individuals and be prepared to articulate your thought process clearly.
