This Advanced Practitioner role sits within Somerset Council's Learning Disabilities Service for adults, leading practice development. It centres on evidence-informed, strengths-based social work, with supervision of students and newly qualified social workers. Travel across a largely rural county is central, with own vehicle access essential, and the work involves multi-agency working alongside health partners. Social Work England registration and two years post-qualifying experience are required, and visa sponsorship is limited to overseas social workers already in the UK.
What the job involves
- Support the Service Manager in leading and managing teams, including operations, planning, team development, HR, staff development and financial oversight
- Provide fortnightly supervision and regular support to students throughout their placements
- Develop students' and NQSWs' practice skills and uphold practice standards against Social Work England and the Professional Capabilities Framework
- Assess students' ability to apply social work theories, models and legislation in practice
- Lead and contribute to local and national service developments, quality assurance and practice improvement
- Give advanced decision-making, problem-solving and advice on practice issues to the social care workforce
- Act as a source of expertise for social care and occupational therapy staff through coaching, mentoring, joint working and case discussion
- Facilitate NQSW professional development meetings and reviews, complete observation reports and verify professional documentation
- Prepare social work development reviews, identify staff training needs and run induction programmes with the Service Manager
- Model strengths-based, person-centred practice within the Care Act 2014 framework
- Work with partners, community resources, Learning and Development and the Principal Social Worker for an integrated, quality-assured approach
- Help build a culture of learning, reflection and continuous improvement across the service
What’s required
Qualifications
- Social work qualification (degree, DipSW or CQSW)
- Holding or working towards the Practice Education Professional Standards (PEPs) qualification
Registration & licences
- Current Social Work England registration
Experience
- At least two years post-qualifying experience
- Supervisory experience, including oversight and mentoring of students or NQSWs
Skills & knowledge
- Knowledge of theories, models of intervention and research underpinning adult social work
- Ability to relate legislation and policy to practice
- Confidence in critically and constructively reflecting on others' practice
- Analytical, influencing, negotiation and organisational skills
- Working under pressure, prioritising and meeting deadlines
- Clear, person-centred communication at all levels, including written reports
Checks & eligibility
- Full access to a vehicle that can be used for work purposes
Other
- Good understanding of IT systems
- Working autonomously and as part of a team
- Promoting people's rights to autonomy and self-determination, applying professional ethics to decisions
What’s offered
- 30 days annual leave entitlement
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Contact Details:
The Methodist Church in Britain Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Advanced Practitioner Practice Development - Learning Disabilities (Adults) in Taunton
✨Join Medical Networks
Get involved in local and national medical associations, like the Royal College of Physicians. These networks can help you connect with mentors and colleagues who might know of openings, plus they're great for staying updated on the latest in medicine and clinical practices.
✨Attend Healthcare Conferences
Make it a habit to attend medical conferences and seminars. These events are fantastic for networking and often feature job boards where hospitals and clinics post their openings. Plus, it’s a good way to get your face recognised in the industry.
✨Leverage Your Medical School's Resources
Don’t forget to use your medical school’s career services! They usually have great connections with hospitals and clinics looking to fill full-time physician positions and can help you with mock interviews or networking events.
✨Apply Directly Through Hospital Websites
When you're ready to apply, make sure to check the careers section of hospital websites directly. Hospitals like The Methodist Church in Britain often post their job openings there first, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other applicants.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Credentials:When applying for a physician role, make sure to highlight your medical qualifications and any special certifications you have. We want to see your medical degree, residency training, and any additional certifications that set you apart, like specialised training in paediatrics or geriatrics. Don’t leave out those all-important letters after your name!
Tailor Your CV to Medicine:Your CV should reflect your experience and skills as a doctor. Be specific about your clinical rotations, medical practice, and any research work you've done – we love seeing quantifiable impacts, so mention how you've improved patient care or led successful treatment plans.
Craft a Personal Statement with Heart:In your cover letter, let us know why you chose medicine and what drives your passion for patient care. Personal stories about transformative experiences—like a memorable patient encounter or a moment that defined your career path—can really make you shine. Remember, we're looking for someone who genuinely cares about their patients!
Demonstrate Continuous Learning:In the medical field, showcasing your commitment to continuous learning is essential. Mention any recent courses, workshops, or conferences you’ve attended, and highlight your willingness to stay updated on medical advancements. This shows us that you’re not just a physician; you're a lifelong learner, ready to adapt and grow.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Methodist Church in Britain
✨Get Clinical Knowledge Sharp
Brush up on your clinical knowledge, particularly in areas relevant to the role at The Methodist Church in Britain. Expect questions about diagnosis, treatment plans, and patient management. Be ready to discuss case studies or even do some role-playing with hypothetical patient scenarios for a more practical assessment.
✨Know Your Procedures and Protocols
Familiarise yourself with the latest procedures and protocols that are specific to the field of medicine you’re applying to. Whether it’s surgical techniques or patient care protocols, being able to discuss these confidently can really set you apart in the interview at The Methodist Church in Britain.
✨Show You're a Team Player
In the medical field, collaboration is key. Have examples ready that showcase your teamwork and communication skills. Talk about how you've worked with nurses, specialists, or other doctors in the past to provide the best care for your patients. This shows you're ready to integrate into the team at The Methodist Church in Britain.
✨Stay Current with Medical Trends
Make sure you’re clued up on the latest medical trends, research, and innovations. Not only does this prepare you for technical questions, but it also shows your passion for the field. Be ready to discuss how these trends might affect your practice at The Methodist Church in Britain.
