At a Glance
- Tasks: Support service users in the community and manage risk assessments.
- Company: Join West Dunbartonshire Council, a top flexible employer committed to transforming justice services.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid work options, 25+ days annual leave, and access to wellbeing support.
- Other info: Membership with the PVG scheme is essential for this regulated role.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in public protection while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Must have a Degree in Social Work and preferably experience in criminal justice.
The predicted salary is between 42994 - 46535 £ per year.
Location: Council Offices West Dunbartonshire Council 16 Church Street Dumbarton, G82 1QL
Salary: £42,994.64 - £46,534.95 per year
Contract Type: Permanent
Position Type: Full Time
Hours: 35 hours per week
Work From Home: Hybrid
Job Description
A vacancy have arisen for a Qualified Social Worker within our busy Justice Social Work Service. This is an exciting time as we continue to take forward our delivery plan with national partners to transform Justice services in West Dunbartonshire.
The Primary Role of Criminal Justice Social Work can be summarised in the functions of risk assessment/management and supervision of service users in the community. The service has a critical role in public protection and takes the lead in discharging the Authorities responsibilities as a Responsible Authority under the terms of the Management of Offenders (Scotland) Act 2005.
You will provide direct support to service users and your contribution to team development and working in partnership are at the heart of our service delivery plan, within an integrated partnership, to ensure individuals receive a high quality, consistent and effective service that upholds local and national outcomes and standards to reduce risk and harm.
The post holder will be a qualified social worker, with preferable criminal justice experience and current knowledge of risk assessment, risk management tools and systems including the Caledonian System, LSCMI, SA07, MAPPA and ViSOR.
The successful candidate will be offered regular supervision, training and professional development opportunities. A Degree in Social Work, DipSW or CQSW is essential. Please contact Laura Smith/Joe McGinley on 01389 738484 for further details or for an informal discussion.
Requirements
This post is considered a Regulated Role with Adults and Children under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2020 and as such membership with the PVG scheme is essential. Further details of this scheme can be found here .
Preferred applicants will be required to become members of the relevant PVG scheme, or undergo a PVG Scheme update check prior to a formal offer being made by West Dunbartonshire Council.
Responsibilities
The employment for which you are applying is excepted from the provisions of section 4(2) of the Rehabilitation of Offenders (Exceptions) Order 1975.
Applicants are, therefore, not statutorily entitled to withhold information about convictions which for other purposes are \"spent\" under the provisions of the Act. In the event of employment any failure to disclose such convictions could result in dismissal or disciplinary action.
The Individual
WDC was voted one of the top ten flexible employers and prides itself in providing flexible working to support work life balance. In addition to this there are also additional benefits:
• Access to the Local Government pension scheme (LGPS) with an employer’s contribution of at least 19.3% and all associated benefits
• A minimum of 25 days annual leave, increasing a day each year up to 35 days as well as 8 fixed public holidays each year
• Access to employee wellbeing supports including occupational health & counselling if ever you need help and support
Now that you have read the role and what we have to offer, we would love to hear from you. Please use the application to tell us your experience, and why you are the candidate for this role.
For information about West Dunbartonshire Council please click on the following link and see why we are an employer of choice:
http://www.west-dunbarton.gov.uk/jobs-and-training/working-for-us/about-us/
More information on the benefits of working within West Dunbartonshire Council, can be found using the following link:
http://www.west-dunbarton.gov.uk/jobs-and-training/working-for-us/benefits-of-working-with-us/
Social Worker (Criminal Justice) in Dumbarton employer: West Dunbartonshire Council
West Dunbartonshire Council is an exceptional employer, recognised for its commitment to flexible working and a supportive work-life balance. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing, generous annual leave, and robust professional development opportunities, the Council fosters a collaborative environment where social workers can thrive while making a meaningful impact in the community. Located in the heart of Dumbarton, this role offers the chance to be part of a transformative justice service that prioritises public protection and individual support.
Contact Details:
West Dunbartonshire Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Social Worker (Criminal Justice) in Dumbarton
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific risk assessment and management tools mentioned in the job description, such as the Caledonian System and LSCMI. Being able to discuss these tools confidently during your interview will demonstrate your relevant knowledge and experience.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of West Dunbartonshire Council, especially those in the Justice Social Work Service. They can provide valuable insights into the team culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach when applying.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in public protection and how it relates to the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Highlighting specific examples of your work in this area will show that you understand the critical nature of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the latest developments in criminal justice social work, particularly in Scotland. Being knowledgeable about current trends and challenges in the field will allow you to engage in meaningful discussions during the interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Social Worker (Criminal Justice) in Dumbarton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Social Worker position. Highlight your relevant experience in risk assessment and management, as well as any knowledge of the specific tools mentioned.
Tailor Your CV:Customise your CV to reflect your qualifications and experiences that align with the job. Emphasise your degree in Social Work and any criminal justice experience you have, ensuring it stands out to the hiring team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also explains why you are passionate about working in criminal justice social work. Use specific examples from your past experiences to demonstrate your skills and commitment.
Highlight Your Commitment to Professional Development:Mention any training or professional development opportunities you have pursued, especially those related to risk management and assessment. This shows your dedication to continuous improvement in your field.
How to prepare for a job interview at West Dunbartonshire Council
✨Know Your Legislation
Familiarise yourself with the Management of Offenders (Scotland) Act 2005 and other relevant legislation. Being able to discuss these laws confidently will demonstrate your understanding of the legal framework surrounding criminal justice social work.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience in social work, particularly in criminal justice. Be ready to provide specific examples of risk assessment and management, as well as any tools or systems you have used, such as the Caledonian System or LSCMI.
✨Showcase Teamwork Skills
Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively within a team and with external partners. Discuss how you have contributed to team development and service delivery in past roles, as this is crucial for the position.
✨Prepare Questions
Have thoughtful questions ready to ask about the role and the organisation. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you. Consider asking about training opportunities and team dynamics.
