At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals in mental health services through personalised social care and assessments.
- Company: Join a dedicated team committed to high-quality social care in a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Generous leave, flexible working, employee assistance, and discounts at over 900 retailers.
- Other info: Opportunities for career progression and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your professional skills.
- Qualifications: Qualified Social Worker with a commitment to ongoing development and a driving licence.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are seeking enthusiastic Social Work professionals who are committed to strengths-based practice, take pride in their profession, and are passionate about delivering high-quality social care pathways for individuals accessing secondary mental health services.
You’ll deliver social care in line with the Care Act 2014, focusing on personalised, person-centred assessment, support planning, safeguarding, and review. You’ll work in partnership with statutory and voluntary sector organisations, and involve service users and carers in shaping an equitable, high-quality service.
About You
- Qualified Social Worker (CQSW, DipSW, BA Hons, MA or equivalent), registered with Social Work England.
- Completion of the Assessed First Year in post-qualifying Social Work practice (if appropriate).
- Commitment to ongoing professional development.
- Bring a comprehensive working knowledge of the issues currently impacting on social care delivery, you will be up-to-date with policy and practice development.
- Full driving licence and access to a vehicle (travel across rural areas required).
Does the job role include personal care? No
Working Patterns: TBC
What We Offer
- Generous annual leave, & the ability to purchase additional annual leave.
- Employee Assistance for the times you may need some support and a variety of employee well-being services.
- We promote a healthy work-life balance and offer flexible working arrangements wherever possible, including working from home.
- Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Discounts at over 900 national & local high street retailers through our benefits platform.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Electric Vehicle salary sacrifice scheme.
- A beautiful place to live and work, with vibrant cities, scenic coast, and countryside.
Career Pathway
We have implemented the first phase of a new Social Worker Career Pathway within Adult Services, offering roles at either Social Worker (Grade F) or Experienced Social Worker (Grade G) levels. These roles are aligned with the Professional Capability Framework (PCF), providing a clear and structured route for career progression.
Candidates will be assessed against PCF domains during the interview process to determine their appointment level. Those starting at Grade F can progress to Grade G by demonstrating development through a portfolio of evidence, supported by ongoing learning and supervision.
Staff Testimonials
- “So much of social work practice is about empowering, supporting, and breaking down barriers within systems that oppress people. The function of assessment is vital, holistic, and supportive. I thoroughly enjoyed the challenge of working in an inter-agency way, which has galvanised my identity as a social worker.” — Amanda, Social Worker
- “Working in the South and West Social Care Team gives me the opportunity to have meaningful conversations with people about their lives and aspirations. The team is supportive, and there are opportunities for developing professional skills and reflection.” — Elaine, Social Worker
Ready to Make a Real Difference?
For more information, contact Helen Sowden, Social Care Team Manager, on 01803 866225.
Internal applicants: Please use your iTrent Employee Self Service (ESS) details to log in and apply.
The closing date for applications is 7th June 2026 - Apply early to avoid disappointment - the vacancy may close before this date if a sufficient number of applications are submitted.
Additional Information
DCC embraces the positive benefits of a diverse workforce and is committed to providing an environment that is inclusive and safe. We welcome applications from people who share our commitment to stop discrimination, challenge inequality and promote diversity across Devon.
The Council offers flexible working arrangements in terms of when and where people work e.g. hybrid working, part-time, condensed hours etc.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
This role requires the ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence and fluency in English.
Personal data we collect from you will be processed in accordance with the Applicant privacy notice.
Happy to Talk Flexible Working.
For more information about Working for Devon please visit our Working for Devon page.
This role requires a DBS disclosure.
This role requires Social Work England Registration (SWE).
Please note: At this time we are only accepting applications from candidates who are currently residing in the UK, and are unable to consider overseas applications.
Hospital Discharge Social Worker – Mental Health in Exeter employer: Proud to Care Devon
As a Hospital Discharge Social Worker in the picturesque South and West region, you will join a supportive team dedicated to empowering individuals through high-quality social care. Our commitment to professional development is evident in our structured career pathways, while our flexible working arrangements and generous benefits ensure a healthy work-life balance. With access to a wealth of employee well-being services and discounts at numerous retailers, we strive to create an inclusive environment where you can thrive both personally and professionally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Hospital Discharge Social Worker – Mental Health in Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the social work field, attend local events, and join relevant online groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the organisation and be ready to discuss how your strengths align with their values. Practise common interview questions and think about how you can showcase your commitment to high-quality social care.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you along the way, and applying directly can sometimes give you a leg up. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications!
We think you need these skills to ace Hospital Discharge Social Worker – Mental Health in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for social work shine through! We want to see how committed you are to strengths-based practice and delivering high-quality care. Share personal experiences that highlight your passion for making a difference.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the role. Mention your qualifications and how they align with the job description. We love seeing candidates who take the time to connect their skills with what we’re looking for!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate when candidates can communicate effectively, as it reflects the skills needed in social work.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our organisation there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Proud to Care Devon
✨Know Your Legislation
Familiarise yourself with the Care Act 2014 and other relevant legislation. Be prepared to discuss how you would apply these laws in your practice, especially in relation to personalised assessments and safeguarding.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your strengths-based practice and ability to work collaboratively with service users and other organisations. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Understand the Role
Research the specific challenges and opportunities within secondary mental health services. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to high-quality social care pathways and what you believe makes a successful social worker in this field.
✨Engage with Professional Development
Express your commitment to ongoing professional development. Mention any relevant training or courses you've completed, and be prepared to discuss how you plan to continue growing in your role as a social worker.
