At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals with learning disabilities and autism through care plans and advocacy.
- Company: Essex County Council, a leader in disability confidence and community support.
- Benefits: Flexible working, 27 days leave, professional development, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to empowering individuals in the community.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while growing your social work career.
- Qualifications: Qualified Social Worker with experience in assessments and safeguarding.
The predicted salary is between 19243 - 25917 £ 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 salary range is £19,243 to £25,917 per annum.
Interviews will be held in person at Goodman House, Harlow on 20th August 2026.
About the Team
We are an adult social care service dedicated to giving citizens of Essex as much choice and control over the way they live as possible.
Our Learning Disability and Autism team covers West Essex and works to improve outcomes for people with learning disabilities and/or autism through person‑centred practice, multidisciplinary collaboration, and community partnership.
Responsibilities
- Work with individuals, families and carers to develop and implement care plans, assessments and safeguarding arrangements in line with the Care Act 2014 and the Mental Capacity Act.
- Advocate for people with learning disabilities and/or autism, ensuring their voices are heard and their goals are pursued.
- Travel throughout Essex to support clients in the community, meeting mobility requirements through driving a car or other means.
- Chair meetings with partners and agencies, fostering strong relationships that support clients’ needs.
- Maintain accurate and timely records, attend relevant training and undertake reflective practice.
- Contribute positively to a supportive team culture while working autonomously.
Qualifications
- Qualified and experienced Social Worker (post ASYE) with current Social Work England registration.
- Sound understanding of the Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act and safeguarding practice.
- Demonstrated strong assessment, risk management and decision‑making skills.
- Confidence working autonomously and contributing to a team environment.
- Commitment to reflective practice, continuous professional development and training.
- Experience chairing meetings and developing relationships with partner agencies.
What We Offer
- Ongoing opportunities for continuing professional development.
- Flexible working options.
- Employee wellbeing and counselling support.
- 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) – free and confidential support.
- Employee networks and communities.
- Payment of Social Work England registration fees.
- Equal Opportunities
Essex County Council is proud to be a Disability Confident Leader.
We are committed to interviewing all disabled applicants, veterans, care leavers and other under‑represented groups who meet the minimum requirements of the role and to providing reasonable adjustments where required.
- For more information or to apply, contact
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Adults Social Worker – Learning Disability & Autism in Harlow employer: Kirklees Metropolitan Council
Kirklees Metropolitan Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and flexible work environment for Childcare Lawyers in Northallerton. With hybrid working options and a strong commitment to employee growth, the council fosters a culture of collaboration and professional development, making it an ideal place for those passionate about making a meaningful impact in children's services.
Contact Details:
Kirklees Metropolitan Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Adults Social Worker – Learning Disability & Autism in Harlow
✨Get Involved in Community Events
Dive headfirst into community events and social work fairs in your area. These are great opportunities to connect with potential employers like Kirklees Metropolitan Council, grab some insider info, and showcase your passion for social work. Plus, meeting people face-to-face can really make you stand out!
✨Join Social Work Networks
Tap into social work networks and online communities, like local charities and organisations. Engaging in discussions or volunteering can help you build a strong reputation and could lead to part-time roles just like the one at Kirklees Metropolitan Council. The connections you make could be the key to landing your next opportunity!
✨Make Your Passion Shine
When approaching part-time roles, be sure to highlight your passion for social issues in conversations and informal chats. Bring your experiences to life through storytelling – this can resonate well with organisations looking for someone who genuinely cares about making a difference!
✨Keep an Eye on Local Job Boards
Part-time roles in social work might not always be advertised in the usual places. Keep checking local job boards or community centres for openings, and don't hesitate to apply directly through Kirklees Metropolitan Council's website – we love seeing proactive candidates who take the initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace Adults Social Worker – Learning Disability & Autism in Harlow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let your passion for social work shine through. Talk about why you're drawn to this field and how you've been involved in community service or support roles. We want to see your commitment and the heart you bring to the table!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to spotlight any hands-on experience you have! Whether it's internships, volunteering, or relevant coursework, detail how your past experiences relate to the role at Kirklees Metropolitan Council. We love seeing candidates who have practical skills and a real understanding of social issues.
Certificates and Training Matter:If you've got any relevant certifications or training specific to social work (like safeguarding training or counselling qualifications), don’t forget to include these in your CV! These details can set you apart and show us you’re serious about your professional development.
Be Flexible with Your Availability:Since this is a part-time role, explain your availability clearly in your application. Let us know when you can start and how many hours you’re looking to work. Being upfront about your schedule will help us see how you fit into the team at Kirklees Metropolitan Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at Kirklees Metropolitan Council
✨Show Your Passion for Helping Others
In social work, it's all about your commitment to making a difference. Be ready to share specific experiences that highlight your passion for helping others, whether that's through volunteering, placements, or personal stories. We want to see that genuine drive during your chat with Kirklees Metropolitan Council.
✨Know Your Social Work Theories
You might be quizzed on social work theories or models that inform your practice, like the person-in-environment approach. Brush up on these concepts and be prepared to discuss how you'd apply them in a practical setting. This could be a game changer in your interview for a Adults Social Worker – Learning Disability & Autism at Kirklees Metropolitan Council.
✨Flexibility and Availability are Key
As you're going for a part-time role, highlight your flexibility and how it would fit with the organisation's needs. Have examples ready that demonstrate your availability for various shifts or urgent situations—that's just gold for a social work role.
✨Prepare for a Situation-Based Discussion
Expect scenario-based questions where you'll need to demonstrate how you'd handle specific situations with clients or stakeholders. Think of a couple of real-life scenarios you've encountered and articulate your thought process. This will show Kirklees Metropolitan Council that you're ready to hit the ground running in the Adults Social Worker – Learning Disability & Autism role.
