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- Tasks: Support families facing substance misuse challenges and promote positive change.
- Company: Join Southend-on-Sea City Council's dynamic Multi-Disciplinary Team.
- Benefits: Flexible working, career growth, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Why this job: Be part of an innovative team transforming lives in the community.
- Qualifications: Degree in social work, psychology, or related field required.
- Other info: Engage with diverse families and collaborate with expert professionals.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Multi Disciplinary - Substance Misuse Specialist - Permanent
Southend-on-Sea City Council's new Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) consists of subject-matter experts specialising in domestic abuse, drug and alcohol support, mental health support for adults and children, and systemic family therapy. MDT workers bring specialist knowledge and therapeutic insight. Their expertise is instrumental in engaging families in direct intervention and supporting sustainable change. The MDT team is situated within frontline social work teams. The interventions from MDT are delivered within the community and/or in the families' homes.
This is an exciting time for Children's Social Work, and we are seeking experienced, motivated, and passionate individuals to join the new dynamic Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT). Led by the Team Manager, you will help create the conditions for sustainable change, working alongside a diverse team of subject-matter experts.
Main duties of the job
The team are looking to appoint a full-time, permanent, experienced Substance Misuse Specialist. Working alongside Social Workers, the appointed candidate will help to promote family members' involvement to improve outcomes for children and families. They will be required to engage with parents on a one-to-one basis who have complex substance/alcohol misuse challenges and provide them with support and clinical interventions to address their substance/alcohol misuse.
About us
Southend on Sea City Council is a Unitary local authority, providing vital services to meet the needs of the local community. We employ around 1,800 staff who are working alongside our partners and local communities to deliver the city vision and make lives better for the people of Southend. Working for Southend on Sea City Council offers a challenging and rewarding career in local government within a collaborative and innovative environment, with the benefit of flexible working practices to support a positive work-life balance.
As a Unitary Authority, we are responsible for all local government functions ranging from social services, transport, public health and parks through to planning, trading standards, community safety and education, so we offer a wide range of career opportunities. The diversity of our economy and communities and investment in a number of exciting regeneration projects makes our Council a great place to work, learn and make a difference.
Job responsibilities
Carry out risk assessments which will include safety plans to help contribute to the development of individual recovery plans with those who express a wish to access community treatment/support services. The Substance Misuse Specialist will utilise interventions such as motivational interviewing, ITEP, cognitive behavioural techniques and brief interventions to promote engagement in treatment services, encourage self-esteem, well-being, self-responsibility, enhanced motivation and therefore improve their parenting capacity, as well as review ongoing care and treatment, liaising closely with partner agencies and provide support in engaging with the right services at the right time.
Whilst this position is predominately on site at Southend City Council, working from home options are available, but will depend on the needs of the team.
Person Specification
Qualifications
To be shortlisted for this position, it is essential that you are degree educated within a relevant field, i.e. social work, psychology, counselling, nursing, or a related field: mental health or substance misuse.
Experience
You will have extensive experience of working within substance misuse services, along with proven experience of working with high-risk families, where children are subject to Child Protection or Child in Need Plans. Have a background in working effectively to support adults with a history of substance misuse with demonstrable outcomes. A proven track record of delivering assessments, safety planning, and brief interventions, as well as experience of providing consultation, advice, or training to professionals in children's services or multi-agency settings.
MDT Substance Misuse Specialist – Family & Child Support in Southend-on-Sea employer: Southend-on-Sea City Council
Contact Detail:
Southend-on-Sea City Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land MDT Substance Misuse Specialist – Family & Child Support in Southend-on-Sea
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the field of substance misuse and social work. Attend local events or workshops where you can meet professionals from Southend-on-Sea City Council and other organisations. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to job opportunities!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioural techniques. Be ready to discuss how you've used these methods in past roles. Show us your passion for making a difference in families' lives!
✨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 keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our dynamic MDT team at Southend-on-Sea City Council.
We think you need these skills to ace MDT Substance Misuse Specialist – Family & Child Support in Southend-on-Sea
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Substance Misuse Specialist role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with the job description, especially your work with high-risk families and substance misuse services.
Showcase Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for supporting families and making a difference shine through in your application. We want to see your motivation for joining our Multi-Disciplinary Team and how you can contribute to sustainable change.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure your thoughts logically. This will help us quickly understand your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered for the position. We’re excited to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Southend-on-Sea City Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of substance misuse and the specific challenges faced by families. Familiarise yourself with motivational interviewing techniques and cognitive behavioural approaches, as these are likely to come up in your interview.
✨Show Your Passion
This role is all about making a difference in people's lives. Be ready to share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to supporting families dealing with substance misuse. Let your passion shine through!
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked how you would handle specific situations involving high-risk families. Think about past experiences where you've successfully engaged with clients or implemented safety plans, and be ready to discuss these in detail.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking questions. Inquire about the MDT's approach to collaboration or how they measure success in their interventions. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the team.