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- Tasks: Support individuals with learning disabilities and autism through assessment and personalised interventions.
- Company: Join St Andrew’s, a charity dedicated to transforming mental health care and inspiring hope.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, professional development opportunities, and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on vulnerable lives while working in a compassionate and values-driven culture.
- Qualifications: Must have a recognised Social Work Qualification and experience in Mental Health legislation.
- Other info: Opportunities for training and regular supervision to enhance your skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Full Time or Part Time: Full Time 5 days a week or 0.9 wte can be considered over 4 or 5 days with flexible hours.
Our Charity: We are St Andrew’s, a mental health charity which inspires hope. We work together with a number of organisations to transform the lives of people with complex mental health needs. We provide specialist mental healthcare and deliver a range of inpatient and community mental healthcare services, education and research that helps to improve lives. Our vision for the future is a society in which everyone living with mental health needs is heard, valued and has hope for their future. As a charity, all of our profits are re-invested into new services and new facilities. And because we’re independent, we have the flexibility to make a real difference. Joining us is your chance to make a big contribution to amazing work that is transforming the lives of some of society’s most vulnerable people.
Your role with us: An opportunity has come up for a position within the Social Work Service at St Andrew’s Healthcare for a Senior Social Worker within our Learning Disability and Autism Division. St Andrew’s Learning Disability and Autism Division seeks to improve the quality of life and reduce risk, in the least restrictive way possible, for individuals with a learning disability and/or ASD often with complex presentations. We provide assessment, resulting in a comprehensive formulation that informs the development and implementation of personalised, evidence-based therapeutic interventions. Care is delivered across several facilities in Northampton, ranging from Medium Secure, Low Secure and non-secure rehabilitation services.
Staffing across the pathway consists of a full Multi-disciplinary team which includes specialists in Learning Disability and Autism. All staff undertake specialist foundation training in Learning Disability Awareness as well as Autism Awareness, with some staff extending their qualifications into specific areas of specialism.
You will have a recognised Social Work Qualification and post-qualifying social work award and experience. You will have extensive experience of working in Mental Health and Mental Capacity Legislation, as well as Safeguarding Adults Legislation and practice, to include the undertaking of complex safeguarding investigations. Detailed knowledge and experience of working under pressure with complex legal issues is essential.
Skill and experience in supervision and leadership, both in terms of working with others and in areas outside of direct casework, is essential. There is an expectation that the post holder will seek to develop their skills in their specialist area. There is an expectation that the post holder will also hold a full caseload including some extremely complex and high-risk cases.
St Andrew’s Healthcare Social Workers must be registered with Social Work England and there will be opportunities for training to ensure registration. In addition, there will be regular supervision, an annual performance review and opportunities for development. Our patients and your colleagues will expect you to live the St Andrew’s CARE values of Compassion, Accountability, Respect and Excellence every single day.
To discuss the opportunity in more detail, please do not hesitate to contact Kelly Tompkins, Lead Social Worker.
Contact Detail:
St Andrews Healthcare Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Social Worker - LD/ASD Division
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with St Andrew's CARE values: Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence. Demonstrating a clear understanding of these values during your interactions can set you apart as a candidate who aligns with the charity's mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of St Andrew's Healthcare. Engaging in conversations about their experiences can provide valuable insights into the organisational culture and expectations, which you can leverage during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on current trends and legislation related to mental health, learning disabilities, and autism. Being well-informed will not only enhance your discussions but also demonstrate your commitment to professional development in this field.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare specific examples from your past experience that showcase your skills in supervision, leadership, and handling complex cases. Tailoring your responses to highlight these competencies will help you stand out as a strong candidate for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Social Worker - LD/ASD Division
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Senior Social Worker position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in mental health, safeguarding, and leadership.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your qualifications and extensive experience in Mental Health and Mental Capacity Legislation. Provide specific examples of complex cases you have managed and how you applied your skills in supervision and leadership.
Showcase Your Values: Demonstrate how you embody the CARE values of Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence in your previous roles. Use anecdotes that reflect these values in action, particularly in challenging situations.
Proofread and Personalise: Before submitting your application, proofread all documents for clarity and correctness. Personalise your cover letter to St Andrew’s Healthcare, mentioning why you are passionate about their mission and how you can contribute to their vision.
How to prepare for a job interview at St Andrews Healthcare
✨Understand the Organisation's Values
Before your interview, make sure you are familiar with St Andrew’s CARE values: Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence. Be prepared to discuss how you embody these values in your work and provide examples from your past experiences.
✨Showcase Your Experience with Complex Cases
Given the nature of the role, it's crucial to highlight your experience dealing with complex mental health cases, particularly those involving learning disabilities and autism. Prepare specific examples that demonstrate your skills in assessment, intervention, and safeguarding.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Senior Social Worker, you'll be expected to lead and supervise others. Be ready to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully managed teams or mentored colleagues in challenging situations.
✨Prepare Questions for Your Interviewers
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, training opportunities, and the specific challenges faced by the Learning Disability and Autism Division. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.