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- Tasks: Conduct Best Interests Assessments to safeguard vulnerable individuals under DoLS legislation.
- Company: Join the Westmorland and Furness Council's dedicated DoLS Team.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, professional development, and a competitive pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Qualified Best Interests Assessor with knowledge of MCA and DoLS legislation.
- Other info: Access to training, peer support, and a supportive work environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Craven House, Barrow / South Lakeland House, Kendal / Voreda House Penrith
Contract: Fixed Term - 12 months
Job reference: WMF2636e
About this opportunity
This is an exciting opportunity to join the Westmorland and Furness Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) Team, supporting the delivery of high-quality Best Interests Assessments and reviews in line with the DoLS framework. As a Best Interests Assessor (BIA), you will play a vital role in safeguarding individuals who fall within the scope of DoLS legislation. Your work will ensure compliance with the Mental Capacity Act (MCA) and Article 5 of the European Convention on Human Rights, by providing expert, evidence-based assessments and professional advice.
Key Responsibilities will include:
- Undertake Best Interests Assessments and reviews in accordance with the DoLS framework.
- Ensure assessments are completed within statutory timescales, coordinating the process under the direction of the DoLS Team Manager.
- Identify and respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns, in line with local and national policy.
- Provide clear, professional advice to support a consistent multi-agency approach.
- Actively promote and represent Westmorland and Furness Council’s DoLS service, both internally and externally.
Who we are looking for…
We are looking for a qualified Best Interests Assessor who is committed to protecting the rights and wellbeing of vulnerable individuals. You will have:
- Strong knowledge of the MCA, DoLS legislation, and human rights frameworks.
- Excellent communication, analytical, and decision-making skills.
- Experience of working within safeguarding and multi-agency environments.
Adult Social Care vision is “People living in a place they call home with the people and things that they love, in communities where they look out for one another, doing the things that matter to them.” We are looking for the right people, with the right values and behaviours to join our teams across Adult Social Care. We’d like to hear more about you, your motivations, interests and values on your application, including what attracted you to this role and how you feel your values relate to the role of Best Interest Assessor.
What can we offer you!
- Opportunities for continued practice and professional development as a BIA
- Excellent training and development, including access to regular BIA legal updates
- Access to BIA specific peer led reflection groups to share experiences and enhance skills
- Provision of individual BIA supervision
- Flexible working opportunities
- Opportunity to join the Local Government Pension Scheme
- Boost your pension with Shared Cost Additional Voluntary Contributions (facilitated by AVC Wise)
- You can also take advantage of the Councils Vehicle Leasing Salary Sacrifice Scheme – designed to make motoring simple, affordable, and greener!
Working at Westmorland and Furness Council you will receive a variety of benefits, including a competitive pension scheme, enhanced annual leave allowance, and other various perks and discounts schemes. For more information about life at Westmorland and Furness Council and what we can offer you, please visit our Careers site.
Best Interest Assessor in Kendal employer: Westmorland And Furness Council
Contact Detail:
Westmorland And Furness Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Best Interest Assessor in Kendal
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the field of Best Interests Assessments. Attend local events or online webinars related to DoLS and MCA. You never know who might have a lead on a job or can offer you valuable insights.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of the Mental Capacity Act and DoLS legislation. Be ready to discuss real-life scenarios where you've applied your skills. Show them you’re not just knowledgeable but also passionate about safeguarding individuals.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a quick thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the Westmorland and Furness Council team. Let’s get you that Best Interests Assessor role!
We think you need these skills to ace Best Interest Assessor in Kendal
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your passion for safeguarding vulnerable individuals shine through. We want to see what motivates you to be a Best Interests Assessor and how your values align with our mission.
Be Specific: Use specific examples from your experience that demonstrate your knowledge of the Mental Capacity Act and DoLS legislation. We love seeing how you've applied your skills in real-life situations, so don’t hold back!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your application to the role. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences that match the job description. We’re looking for candidates who understand the responsibilities of a BIA and can articulate how they fit into our team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our team there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Westmorland And Furness Council
✨Know Your Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the Mental Capacity Act and DoLS legislation before your interview. Being able to discuss these frameworks confidently will show that you’re serious about the role and understand the legal context of being a Best Interests Assessor.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a BIA, you'll need to communicate effectively with various stakeholders. Prepare examples of how you've successfully navigated multi-agency environments or handled safeguarding concerns in the past. This will demonstrate your ability to work collaboratively and provide clear, professional advice.
✨Align with Their Values
Familiarise yourself with the Adult Social Care vision and think about how your personal values align with it. Be ready to share specific examples from your experience that reflect your commitment to protecting the rights and wellbeing of vulnerable individuals.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the DoLS team and their approach to assessments. This not only shows your interest in the role but also helps you gauge if the organisation is the right fit for you.
