At a Glance
- Tasks: Support Gateshead residents transitioning from hospital to home with person-centred care.
- Company: Join a dynamic and purpose-driven team at QE Hospital.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous leave, flexible hours, and health support.
- Other info: Opportunities for learning, development, and career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives every day.
- Qualifications: Social Work qualification and current registration with Social Work England required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Be the bridge between hospital and home for Gateshead residents. Join a dynamic and purpose-driven Hospital Discharge Team at the QE Hospital, where your expertise as a Social Worker will make a difference every day. In this fast‑paced role, you will play a vital part in supporting Gateshead residents to transition safely and effectively from hospital to home or onward care, using trusted assessments and person‑centred approaches.
Responsibilities
- Carry out strengths‑based assessments with adults and their carers across a range of settings, including hospitals, community environments, and residential or nursing placements.
- Undertake specialist assessments where required, including mental capacity, best interests, and risk assessments, ensuring all work is compliant with relevant legislation such as the Mental Capacity Act 2005.
- Manage a dynamic caseload, prioritising effectively to meet competing demands and responding to urgent referrals as part of duty responsibilities.
- Review care and support arrangements to ensure continued eligibility, appropriateness, and value, adapting plans as individuals’ needs and circumstances change.
- Develop and coordinate tailored care packages that promote independence and choice, including the use of Direct Payments and Self‑Directed Support, while ensuring effective use of resources.
- Lead and contribute to multi‑agency working, chairing meetings such as case conferences and safeguarding discussions, and working collaboratively with partners to deliver joined‑up support.
- Support learning and development within the team by sharing your knowledge and contributing to the progression of students, newly qualified social workers, and colleagues.
- Maintain high professional standards, adhering to Social Work England requirements, keeping accurate records, and committing to ongoing professional development.
- Work safely and responsibly, ensuring compliance with health and safety policies while delivering high‑quality, person‑centred care.
Qualifications & Experience
- Social Work qualification (i.e. MA or BA in Social Work, Dip SW CQSW or CSS, or equivalent).
- Current registration with Social Work England.
- Full UK Driving Licence or access to mobility support.
- Strong knowledge and application of key legislation, including the Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act 2005, Safeguarding Adults, and Hospital Discharge Guidance.
- Proven experience of working with adults and carers, including those with physical disabilities, mental health needs, and learning disabilities, delivering person‑centred, strengths‑based support.
- Demonstrable assessment skills, including analysing complex information, managing risk, and identifying appropriate services to meet eligible needs.
- Experience of managing a varied caseload, with the ability to prioritise effectively and respond to competing and urgent demands in a fast‑paced environment.
- A collaborative and proactive approach, able to work independently while also building effective partnerships with colleagues and multi‑agency professionals.
- Strong communication and IT skills, with the ability to maintain accurate, timely records and clearly evidence decision‑making.
If successful, this role requires a DBS and you will have to apply for an enhanced Disclosure.
Benefits
- Competitive Salary: We offer fair and transparent pay that reflects your skills and experience.
- Outstanding Pension Scheme: We invest in your future.
- Generous Annual Leave: Enjoy 28 days of annual leave, rising to 32 days after 5 years, plus the option to buy up to 10 extra days.
- Flexible Working Hours: Benefit from up to 26 flexi days per year, giving you more control over your time.
- Hybrid & Flexible Working: We support a healthy work‑life balance with flexible and hybrid working options.
- Learning & Development: Access a wide range of training, development, and progression opportunities to help you grow your career.
- Health & Wellbeing Support: From discounted gym memberships to mental health resources, we care about your wellbeing.
- Cycle to Work Scheme: Save money and stay active with our tax‑efficient cycle to work programme.
- Electric & Hybrid Car Scheme: Get behind the wheel of a brand‑new electric or hybrid vehicle through our salary sacrifice car scheme.
- Exclusive Discounts & Salary Sacrifice: Enjoy discounts on shopping, travel, and services, helping you spread the cost of essential purchases.
Our Commitment to You
We are an equal opportunities employer and aim to have a culture and a workplace where our people feel a sense of belonging, are respected and empowered to do their best work. We welcome applications from suitably qualified people from all sections of the community.
How to Apply
You can apply online using the apply now button below. If you have any questions about your application, please reach out to our recruitment team via recruitment@gateshead.gov.uk.
Please note: As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role.
Social Worker QE Hospital in Gateshead employer: The Borough Council of Gateshead
At QE Hospital, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and dynamic work environment for Social Workers. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through extensive training opportunities and a strong focus on work-life balance with flexible working options. Join us in making a meaningful impact in the Gateshead community while enjoying competitive benefits, including generous annual leave and a robust pension scheme.
Contact Details:
The Borough Council of Gateshead Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Social Worker QE Hospital in Gateshead
✨Get Involved in Local Community Projects
One of the best ways to land a temporary role in social work is to dive headfirst into local community projects. Volunteer your time or skills at local charities or community centres to not only gain experience but also to connect with professionals in the field. They might just have some insider knowledge on temporary positions that pop up!
✨Engage with Social Work Networks
Join online forums and social media groups specifically for social workers. Platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn have dedicated groups where professionals share temporary job opportunities. Being an active member can help you stay in the loop and even get recommendations from those already in the field.
✨Attend Workshops and Seminars
Keep an eye out for workshops, seminars, or conferences related to social work in your area. These events aren't just great for learning; they're also hotbeds for networking! You never know who might be hiring or can point you towards a temporary position while you're soaking up new skills.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website!
When you spot a role that piques your interest, especially for a temporary position, make sure to apply directly through our website! This not only shows your commitment to The Borough Council of Gateshead, but also gives you an edge by putting your application right in front of the hiring team. Let’s get you moving on that path to your next opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Social Worker QE Hospital in Gateshead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let's highlight why you're passionate about social work and how your values align with those of The Borough Council of Gateshead. Share specific experiences where you made a difference, as this field thrives on genuine motivation and connection.
Demonstrate Relevant Experience:When listing your experience, focus on any internships, volunteer roles, or temporary positions you've had in social work or related fields. Those skills are gold! Think about situations where you helped individuals or communities, and don't forget to mention any relevant certifications, like safeguarding or mental health first aid.
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Remember, for a temporary role, hiring managers want to see how you fit in and can hit the ground running. Keep your CV clear and to the point, showcasing only the experience that really matters for the role at The Borough Council of Gateshead. We recommend a two-page limit – make every word count!
Emphasise Flexibility and Adaptability:Considering this is a temporary position, it's vital to show you can adapt to new environments quickly. In your application, highlight any past experiences where you had to adjust to different teams or roles smoothly. This shows you understand the nature of temporary work and are ready for the challenge!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Borough Council of Gateshead
✨Sharpen Your Empathy Skills
In social work, it's all about understanding and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Make sure to prepare some examples from your experience where you've demonstrated empathy and resilience. Practising active listening techniques can help you articulate your approach during the interview with The Borough Council of Gateshead.
✨Know Your Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with key social work theories and frameworks, like the ecological systems theory or person-centred approaches. These concepts might pop up during your interview for the temporary Social Worker QE Hospital role at The Borough Council of Gateshead, so it's good to have a couple of insights ready to share.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
Since this is a temporary position, showcasing your flexibility is key. Be prepared to discuss past experiences where you quickly adapted to new environments or changing client needs, which is crucial in the dynamic world of social work.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions that test your decision-making skills and ethical judgement. Think about how you would handle specific challenges you might face in the field. Having a clear structure for your answers will show The Borough Council of Gateshead that you can think critically and act effectively under pressure.
