At a Glance
- Tasks: Support adults in need, focusing on recovery and reablement.
- Company: Join a supportive council team in Kirkwall.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Participate in an emergency out of hours rota and enjoy a collaborative work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while growing your career.
- Qualifications: Degree in Social Work and registration with the Scottish Social Service Council required.
The predicted salary is between 48017 - 50919 £ per year.
Council Offices, Kirkwall
28 hours per week
Permanent
£48,017 - £50,919 pro-rata
£26.31 - £27.90 per hour
The above amounts include Distant Islands Allowance.
You will be reporting to Lynne Nicolson, Team Manager Adult Services.
Your working pattern is Monday – Friday. We are happy to talk flexible working, where possible.
The purpose of this role is to undertake social work responsibilities and tasks for adults.
We are looking to appoint a qualified Social Worker to join our well-established team. Our work is with adults from 16 years old, including older people and there is significant emphasis on Adult Support and Protection and the prevention of hospital admission and discharge planning.
Outcomes focused principles are at the heart of our practice as is recovery and reablement. We run a duty system which covers a number of other teams and organisations. Social Workers take part in the emergency out of hours social work rota.
We are committed to encouraging and supporting our staff to develop their career through local and national training opportunities and continuing professional development.
You should hold a degree or Post Graduate Qualification in Social Work that allows registration with the Scottish Social Service Council as a Social Worker. You are required to be registered with the Scottish Social Services Council as a Social Worker although applications for those currently in process of registration may be considered.
The necessary qualification, experience and skills required for this role are detailed in the 'must have' section of the attached job profile. These criteria are used for decisions on shortlisting and appointment of applicants.
This post involves a contractual requirement to:
- participate in a standby rota covering out of hours.
This post is a regulated role with children and adults and requires Level 2 Disclosure with PVG scheme membership.
For a discussion about this post, please contact Lynne Nicolson, Team Manager, Adult Services at lynn.nicholson@orkney.gov.uk or on 01856 873535 ext. 2663.
Applications close at 23:59 on Sunday 28 June 2026, with shortlisting taking place week commencing 29 June 2026 and interviews are scheduled for week commencing 6 July 2026.
For information on applying and our recruitment process, we would welcome your feedback on our recruitment process.
Social Worker, Adult Services - ORK10341 in Kirkwall employer: Orkney Islands Council
As a Social Worker in Adult Services at our Council Offices in Kirkwall, you will join a supportive and well-established team dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of adults. We offer flexible working arrangements, a commitment to professional development through local and national training opportunities, and a strong focus on outcomes-based practice. Our work culture prioritises collaboration and employee growth, making this an excellent opportunity for those seeking a rewarding career in social work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Social Worker, Adult Services - ORK10341 in Kirkwall
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former social workers in adult services. They can give you the inside scoop on what it’s really like and might even help you get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions. Think about how your experience aligns with the outcomes-focused principles mentioned in the job description. We want to see how you can make a difference!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for social work! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've supported adults in the past. This will demonstrate your commitment to recovery and reablement.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Social Worker, Adult Services - ORK10341 in Kirkwall
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of a Social Worker in Adult Services. We want to see how you can contribute to our team, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Qualifications:Clearly mention your degree or Post Graduate Qualification in Social Work and your registration status with the Scottish Social Services Council. This is crucial for us to know you meet the essential criteria for the role.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the position. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Orkney Islands Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re familiar with the key responsibilities of a Social Worker in Adult Services. Brush up on topics like Adult Support and Protection, discharge planning, and recovery principles. This will show that you’re not just qualified but genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience in social work, especially with adults. Think of specific examples where you made a positive impact, particularly in challenging situations. This will help demonstrate your skills and how you align with their outcomes-focused approach.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some insightful questions about the team dynamics, training opportunities, or the emergency out-of-hours rota. This shows you’re engaged and thinking about how you can fit into their team.
✨Be Yourself
While professionalism is key, don’t forget to let your personality shine through. Social work is all about building relationships, so being authentic can help the interviewers see how you’d connect with clients and colleagues alike.