At a Glance
- Tasks: Support patients with social care needs and manage their finances in a secure environment.
- Company: St Andrew's Healthcare provides compassionate care for individuals with mental health issues.
- Benefits: Enjoy 35 days annual leave, pension, healthcare plans, and discounts with the Blue Light Card.
- Other info: Part-time role with opportunities for vocational qualifications and personal development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in patients' lives while working in a supportive team culture.
- Qualifications: Experience in social or health care settings and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 27836 - 27836 € per year.
Salary from £27,836 includes £1250 Essex Allowance Pro Rata per Annum (Depending on Experience)
Hours: Part Time 18.75 hours per week
At our Essex site, we provide patient centred care for both men and women with a personality disorder and/or mental health issues in a low secure and locked environment.
Your role with us:
- Joining our friendly social work team, you will be responsible to the Lead Social Worker and supervised by a Qualified Social Worker within the team.
Key Responsibilities:
- To provide weekly drop-in sessions to the wards to ensure patients have regular access to social care support.
- To ensure patients are in receipt of appropriate benefits and support service users, families and carers to complete benefit application forms.
- To support the management of other patient finances in line with the Patient Finance Team.
- Provide advocacy directly or refer to patient advocacy services.
- Liaison with family and key agencies to support resolution of issues impacting the patient.
- Provide practical advice and support in relation to a wide variety of issues impacting on the patient.
- To make arrangements to facilitate family and home visits.
- To supervise and accurately record Family Contact.
- To escort patients to contact or to attend placement visits.
- Attend Social Work team and other MDT Meetings as appropriate.
Experience of working in a team in a social / health care setting.
Good verbal, written and IT communication skills with a range of individuals.
An ability and willingness to develop a working understanding of relevant Mental Health and Children’s legislation.
To support the Social Work team in referring and managing safeguarding incidents.
An ability and willingness to develop a working understanding of welfare rights.
Ability to research information for the preparation and compilation of reports.
Ability to demonstrate an awareness of equality issues.
Understanding of the impact of mental illness on individuals, families and carers.
Be comfortable working in a secure environment with people who have complex needs and may present high risk.
Rewards:
We offer an excellent benefits package including: Pension; Sickness policy on par with the NHS; Access to the Blue Light Card and Health Service Discounts schemes; 35 days annual leave (including bank holidays), increasing after 10 years' service; Life cover; Electric Car lease scheme; Cycle to work scheme; Healthcare cash plan; Free parking; Paid DBS application; Access to free vocational qualifications.
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.
Social Work Assistant - Essex in Northampton employer: St Andrew’s Healthcare
St Andrew's Healthcare is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and compassionate work environment in Essex where you can make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals with complex needs. With a comprehensive benefits package that includes generous annual leave, access to vocational qualifications, and a commitment to employee growth, we foster a culture of respect and excellence, ensuring that our staff feel valued and empowered in their roles.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Social Work Assistant - Essex in Northampton
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of patients in a secure environment. Understanding the complexities of mental health issues and personality disorders will help you connect better with both patients and your future colleagues.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the social work field, especially those who have experience in mental health settings. Attend relevant workshops or seminars to gain insights and make connections that could lead to recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning by engaging with current legislation related to mental health and welfare rights. This knowledge will not only enhance your application but also show your dedication to the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for potential interviews by practising scenarios that involve advocacy and support for patients. Being able to articulate your approach to handling sensitive situations will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Social Work Assistant - Essex in Northampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and required skills. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the specific duties of a Social Work Assistant.
Craft a Compelling CV:Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your relevant experience in social or health care settings. Emphasise your communication skills, teamwork experience, and any knowledge of mental health legislation.
Write a Strong Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your passion for social work and your commitment to patient-centred care. Use specific examples from your past experiences to demonstrate your ability to support patients and their families effectively.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at St Andrew’s Healthcare
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the key responsibilities. Be prepared to discuss how your previous experience aligns with the tasks you'll be handling, such as providing advocacy and supporting patients with their finances.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Social Work Assistant, strong verbal and written communication skills are essential. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated with diverse individuals or groups in past roles, especially in challenging situations.
✨Demonstrate Empathy and Understanding
The role involves working with individuals facing complex needs. Be ready to share experiences that highlight your ability to empathise and support those dealing with mental health issues, showcasing your understanding of their challenges.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Relevant Legislation
Having a working understanding of mental health and children's legislation is crucial. Brush up on relevant laws and be prepared to discuss how they impact your work and the support you can provide to patients and their families.
