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- Tasks: Lead Best Interests Assessments and support vulnerable individuals' rights and wellbeing.
- Company: Join the Westmorland and Furness Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards Team.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive pension, enhanced leave, and exclusive perks.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: BIA qualification with two years’ experience and strong knowledge of relevant legislation.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Craven House, Barrow / South Lakeland House, Kendal / Voreda House, Penrith
Contract Type: Fixed term – 12 months
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 our Lead Best Interests Assessor (BIA), you will act as Lead Practitioner completing Best Interests Assessments in accordance with legislation, regulations, the DoLS code of practice and current case law, along with providing case supervision within the wider team.
Supporting the DoLS team manager and Westmorland and Furness Council in the implementation of the Mental Capacity Act and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS), within agreed objectives, and quality and performance standards.
Working effectively with internal and external partners, you will provide training, advice and support to health and social care professionals, as well as Managing Authorities (care homes and hospitals), customers and their families, to improve awareness, practice and processes.
Who we are looking for…
We are looking for an experienced Best Interests Assessor who is committed to protecting the rights and wellbeing of vulnerable individuals, looking to progress and develop in their career.
You will have:
- BIA qualification (with at least two years’ post registration experience)
- Strong knowledge of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and related Code of Practice as well as the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards and related Code of Practice.
- Knowledge and understanding of the Mental Health Act 1983.
- 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 Advanced Practitioner - Best Interest Assessor.
What can we offer you!
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.
Would you like to find out more?
If you have any queries about this role or would like an informal chat about this opportunity, then please contact Jackie Baldwin, DoLs Team Manager on Jackie.Baldwin@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk or 07795 287460.
Application and Interview information
Closing date: 22nd January 2026
Interview date: To be confirmed with candidates successful at shortlisting.
Lead Best Interest Assessor employer: Westmorland And Furness Council
Contact Detail:
Westmorland And Furness Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Best Interest Assessor
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the field of Best Interests Assessments and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards. Attend relevant events or webinars, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by brushing up on the Mental Capacity Act and DoLS framework. We recommend creating a list of potential questions and practicing your responses. This way, you’ll feel confident discussing your experience and how it aligns with the role of Lead Best Interests Assessor.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for safeguarding vulnerable individuals during your interview. Share specific examples from your past experiences that highlight your commitment and values. We want to see that you genuinely care about making a difference in people’s lives!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you can find more information about the role and the fantastic benefits we offer at Westmorland and Furness Council. Let’s get you on board!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Best Interest Assessor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see what attracted you to the Lead Best Interests Assessor position and how your values align with our mission at Westmorland and Furness Council.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Make sure to showcase your BIA qualification and any relevant experience you have. We’re looking for someone with a strong grasp of the Mental Capacity Act and DoLS, so don’t hold back on sharing your expertise in these areas!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so use simple language and structure your thoughts well. This will help us understand your qualifications and motivations without any confusion.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details correctly and can process your application smoothly. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
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 2005 and the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards. Being able to discuss these frameworks confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory, but that you can apply it in practice.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work as a Best Interests Assessor. Highlight situations where you’ve made critical decisions or provided training to others. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and how you can contribute to the team.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since excellent communication skills are key for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. You might even want to do a mock interview with a friend to get comfortable discussing complex topics in an understandable way.
✨Align with Their Values
Take some time to reflect on the Adult Social Care vision and think about how your personal values align with theirs. Be ready to share your motivations and what attracted you to this role, as this will help you connect with the interviewers on a deeper level.
