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For Companies 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 flexible working, 25+ days annual leave, and access to wellbeing support.
- Other info: Membership in 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 be a qualified social worker with knowledge of criminal justice systems.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
Job Description
A vacancy has 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 involves risk assessment/management and supervision of service users in the community. The service plays a critical role in public protection and discharges the Authority\’s responsibilities as a Responsible Authority under the Management of Offenders (Scotland) Act 2005.
You will provide direct support to service users, and your contribution to team development and partnership working are central to our service delivery plan, within an integrated partnership, to ensure individuals receive a high-quality, consistent, and effective service that upholds local and national standards to reduce risk and harm.
The post holder must be a qualified social worker, preferably with criminal justice experience, and have current knowledge of risk assessment, risk management tools, and systems including the Caledonian System, LSCMI, SA07, MAPPA, and ViSOR.
The successful candidate will receive regular supervision, training, and professional development opportunities. A Degree in Social Work, DipSW, or CQSW is essential. For further details or an informal discussion, please contact Laura Smith or Joe McGinley at 01389 738484.
Requirements
This post is considered a Regulated Role under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2020, and membership with the PVG scheme is essential. Further details about the 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.
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 not statutorily entitled to withhold information about convictions which are spent under the Act. Failure to disclose such convictions could result in dismissal or disciplinary action.
The Individual
West Dunbartonshire Council is recognized as a top ten flexible employer, offering flexible working to support work-life balance. Benefits include:
- Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) with an employer contribution of at least 19.3% and associated benefits
- A minimum of 25 days annual leave, increasing by a day each year up to 35 days, plus 8 public holidays
- Access to employee wellbeing supports, including occupational health and counselling
We invite you to apply and tell us about your experience and why you are the right candidate for this role.
For more about West Dunbartonshire Council, visit this link. Additional information about working with us is available here.
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Social Worker (Criminal Justice) - WDN05975 employer: West Dunbartonshire Council
Contact Detail:
West Dunbartonshire Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Social Worker (Criminal Justice) - WDN05975
✨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 knowledge and readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals already working in criminal justice social work. Attend relevant workshops or seminars to gain insights and make connections that could help you stand out as a candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in partnership working and team development. Think of specific examples where you've contributed to a team’s success, as this is central to the role at West Dunbartonshire Council.
✨Tip Number 4
Research West Dunbartonshire Council's current initiatives and goals in transforming justice services. Showing that you understand their vision and how you can contribute will make a strong impression during your application process.
We think you need these skills to ace Social Worker (Criminal Justice) - WDN05975
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Social Worker position in Criminal Justice. Familiarise yourself with the key terms mentioned in the job description, such as risk assessment and management tools.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in social work, particularly in criminal justice. Emphasise your qualifications, including your degree and any specific training related to risk assessment and management.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that clearly outlines your motivation for applying and how your skills align with the role. Mention your understanding of the importance of public protection and your commitment to providing high-quality service.
Prepare for Disclosure Requirements: Be ready to discuss your criminal record if applicable, as the role requires transparency regarding past convictions. Familiarise yourself with the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2020 and be prepared to provide necessary documentation.
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
Be prepared to share specific examples from your past roles that showcase your experience in risk assessment and management. Discussing your familiarity with tools like LSCMI or the Caledonian System can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Emphasise Teamwork Skills
Since partnership working is central to the role, be ready to talk about your experiences collaborating with other professionals. Highlight how you contributed to team development and how you can support a high-quality service delivery.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-life situations. Practising responses to potential challenges you might face in the role will help you articulate your thought process effectively during the interview.