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- Tasks: Supervise social workers, handle complex cases, and conduct strength-based assessments.
- Company: Join Lewisham Council, a vibrant borough known for its diverse communities and commitment to social justice.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holidays, and a supportive team environment with professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the lives of adults while working in an innovative and collaborative setting.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified and registered social worker with relevant experience.
- Other info: This role requires an enhanced DBS check and offers a hybrid working model.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 51000 £ per year.
Full-time, 35 hours Permanent £48,618-£50,646 per annum (SSW) (Enhanced- Both) DBS check required.
Discover yourself in Lewisham where what you do makes a difference to our vibrant and culturally diverse communities! We have a rich history of welcoming people from all over the world and are proud to be recognised as the UK’s first Borough of Sanctuary, for our work in championing the rights of refugees and migrants.
Exciting Social Work opportunities within Lewisham Council.
About Us
Lewisham is a vibrant and diverse borough committed to providing excellent services. Our staff are our strength, and we value partnerships and collaboration.
Adult Social Care
We aim to deliver high quality support to adults in need through innovative approaches and continuous improvement. Join us if you seek an environment dedicated to your development with regular supervision to enhance your career.
Current Vacancies
We are looking for Senior Social Workers in:
- Gateway & MASH (Front Door and Safeguarding)
- Transitions
- Older Adults
- Mental Health
- Complex Discharge
Role Overview
As a Senior Social Worker, you will:
- Supervise Social Workers and Case Management Officers
- Handle complex cases, including MCA Assessments, Court of Protection applications, and s42 safeguarding enquiries
- Support positive risk-taking and least restrictive interventions
- Collaborate with service providers and stakeholders
- Conduct strength-based assessments and reviews
- Make person-centred decisions
- Manage resources within budget
What’s in it for you?
- Work in an innovative environment open to new ideas
- Opportunities for continuous professional development
- Collaborate with a supportive team
- Make impactful contributions to adults with Learning Disabilities and Autism
- Enjoy excellent benefits: generous holiday allowance, Local Government Pension scheme, flexible working, family-friendly policies, season ticket and bicycle loans, subsidised gym memberships, and supportive staff networks.
What We’re Looking For
Experienced Social Workers who:
- Empower clients with choice and control
- Focus on strengths and community connections rather than just services and eligibility
- Help people achieve their goals and stay independent
- Approach situations with professional curiosity
- Are committed to personal and professional development
Join Us
If you are passionate about delivering exceptional support to adults and want to be part of a forward-thinking team, apply now and help us make a positive impact!
Location
The job is primarily based on Lewisham Sites including the hospital but we operate a hybrid approach where you will be required to work both in the office and from home on a regular basis.
Special conditions
- Relevant Social Work qualification is needed
- Qualified and Registered Social Worker
- The job is subject to an enhanced DBS check
The recruitment process is anonymous and we don’t accept CV’s. Applicant handbook - please read the guidance in this handbook when applying. It is essential that you complete the application fully and that your supporting statement covers how you meet each of the person specification criteria listed.
For an informal discussion about this job, please contact Mary Farinha, Service Group Manager on 0208 314 9287 or mary.farinha@lewisham.gov.uk.
To find out more, including a full job description and person specification, and to apply, please click the visit website button.
Please click here to see why Lewisham is the place to work within Adult Social Care.
Closing date: Sunday 29th June 2025, 23:59pm
Diversity
Lewisham Council is a Disability Confident employer. We welcome and encourage job applications of all abilities. If you require any reasonable adjustments in the application or interview, please contact the lead contact on this advert. We will make reasonable adjustments to make sure our disabled applicants and those with health conditions are supported throughout our recruitment process.
We support the access to work scheme, further details are available at www.gov.uk/access-to-work/apply.
The Council has a dedicated employment support service, Lewisham Works, which offers Lewisham residents guidance in relation to applying for jobs. If you want to join Lewisham Works, please email JobsAndSkills@lewisham.gov.uk and an advisor will be in touch with you.
The Council reserves the right to close adverts early if there is a large response.
Senior Social Worker employer: London Borough of Lewisham
Contact Detail:
London Borough of Lewisham Recruiting Team
mary.farinha@lewisham.gov.uk
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Social Worker
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Lewisham's diverse community and the specific challenges they face. Understanding the local context will help you demonstrate your commitment to empowering clients and making a positive impact during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your experience in handling complex cases, especially those involving safeguarding and mental health. Be prepared to discuss specific examples that showcase your skills in these areas, as they are crucial for the Senior Social Worker role.
✨Tip Number 3
Connect with current or former employees of Lewisham Council through professional networks like LinkedIn. They can provide valuable insights into the work culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during the recruitment process.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for potential questions about your approach to professional development and supervision. The role requires collaboration and support for other social workers, so be ready to discuss how you would foster a positive team environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Social Worker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Senior Social Worker. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience in supervising social workers, handling complex cases, and conducting strength-based assessments.
Craft a Strong Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is crucial. Address each criterion in the person specification clearly and concisely. Use specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate how you meet these criteria, particularly focusing on empowering clients and professional curiosity.
Follow Application Guidelines: Ensure you read the applicant handbook provided by Lewisham Council. Adhere strictly to their guidelines regarding the application format and content. Remember, they do not accept CVs, so focus on completing the application form fully.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, take the time to proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are essential qualities for a Senior Social Worker.
How to prepare for a job interview at London Borough of Lewisham
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Senior Social Worker, especially in areas like safeguarding and complex case management. Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges faced in Lewisham's diverse community.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in social work, particularly those that demonstrate your ability to empower clients and handle complex cases. Use specific examples to illustrate your skills in strength-based assessments and collaborative work.
✨Emphasise Professional Development
Highlight your commitment to personal and professional growth. Discuss any relevant training or qualifications you've pursued and how they have prepared you for this role, especially in innovative approaches to adult social care.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, support structures, and opportunities for continuous development within Lewisham Council. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
