Senior Practitioner- Hospital Discharge Team in Liverpool

Provide professional leadership, line management and mentoring to Social Workers and Social Care Assessors within a fast‑paced, multidisciplinary hospital environment. Manage a small but complex caseload and support safe, timely discharges. Ensure high‑quality, strengths‑based assessments and outcome‑focused support planning to enable people to return home safely, prevent unnecessary admissions to long‑term care and reduce delayed discharges.

Oversee operational duties including practice supervision, coaching, and quality assurance. Support staff in completing Mental Capacity Act assessments, best‑interest decision‑making, safeguarding enquiries and complex discharge planning involving CHC, Section 117 aftercare, homelessness, substance misuse and family disagreement. Collaborate closely with acute trust colleagues, ICB partners, therapy services, discharge hubs, trusted assessors and community teams to resolve barriers to discharge.

Chair and contribute to multidisciplinary meetings, support escalation and resolution of system pressures, and ensure discharge plans are legally robust, proportionate and defensible. Maintain compliance with legislation and statutory guidance, including the Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act 2005/2009, Mental Health Act 1983/2007 and associated codes of practice.

Contribute to performance management, financial oversight and value‑for‑money decision‑making within Adult Social Care. Prepare and quality‑assure written work: professional reports, complex case records and Court of Protection documentation where required; support staff to demonstrate sound professional judgement and reflective practice in high‑risk environments.

Model inclusive, strengths‑based and trauma‑informed practice aligned with the Council’s values and Competency Framework (Level 2). Foster a culture of learning, accountability and continuous improvement, supporting staff development while maintaining high standards under pressure. Embed strong collaborative relationships with health colleagues and partners, ensuring consistent hospital discharge standards and supporting whole‑system resilience during periods of high demand.

Work flexibly across hospital sites as required, with a designated base location for the senior practitioner.

Our offer to you:

• At least 27 days holiday, plus bank holidays rising to 32 after 5 years’ service (pro rata if part time) – option to purchase further days.
• Agile working – a “Flexibility First” approach where flexibility is the norm.
• Part of the Local Government Pension Scheme – option to join the AVC Scheme.
• Progression – opportunities and training through a wide range of high‑quality learning.
• Health and Wellbeing – Employee Assistance Programme.
• Cycle to Work and Travel Pass Schemes.
• Drive Time – salary sacrifice car lease scheme.
• Family‑friendly policies with enhanced leave.
• Discounted Gym Memberships.
• Employee Volunteering Scheme.

Liverpool City Council is committed to fostering a workforce representative of the communities we serve. As an Equal Opportunities Employer, we believe in appointing candidates based on their skills, experience, qualifications, and abilities. To support this commitment, we guarantee an interview to candidates from under‑represented groups who meet the minimum essential criteria for the role. If you require reasonable adjustments in line with the Equality Act 2010, such as an alternative application format or additional time to complete your application, please contact us at recruitment@liverpool.gov.uk.