At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the DoLS service, ensuring quality assessments and providing expert guidance.
- Company: Herefordshire Council, committed to community wellbeing and human rights.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team focused on shared learning and community support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while advancing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified Best Interests Assessor with 2+ years of experience and strong knowledge of relevant legislation.
The predicted salary is between 40777 - 45091 £ per year.
Overview
Herefordshire Community Wellbeing is seeking a passionate Senior Best Interests Assessor (BIA) to support operational leadership of the DoLS service, including quality assurance, supervision and practice scrutiny. You will support the AMHP, DoLS & EDT services Manager with a robust authorisation process for DoLS, including scrutinising completed DoLS assessments submitted by Drs and Best Interests Assessors, ensuring these are legally robust, defensible and ready for authorisation. You will provide professional supervision and practice guidance to BIAs, support effective workflow, allocation and prioritisation of cases, and act as a senior source of advice on the Mental Capacity Act, DoLS and relevant case law, providing expert guidance to staff in managing complex assessments. This role is flexible and home based with one day per week in the Hereford office. You will contribute to service development, policy updates, and procedural guidance, deputising for the service manager as required. The DoLS team emphasises collaboration, reflective practice and shared learning.
Responsibilities
- Support the AMHP, DoLS & EDT services Manager with quality assurance, practice scrutiny, staff supervision, allocations and DoLS forums.
- Provide senior advice on the Mental Capacity Act, DoLS and relevant case law.
- Contribute to service development, policy updates and procedural guidance.
- Deputise for the service manager as required.
About You
We are looking for someone with the right people skills, values and commitment to upholding the human rights of those we work with. You will need to be a qualified Best Interests Assessor with at least 2 years of BIA practice and experience of assessing a range of client groups. You will need to have a strong commitment to protecting the human rights of those we work with and strong knowledge of the Mental Capacity Act, The Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards, The Care Act and Safeguarding.
We Offer
- A competitive salary, holiday entitlement, and access to our contributory pension and staff benefits scheme.
- Salary range of £40,777-£45,091.
- Enrolment in the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
- Career progression: clear pathways to progress.
- Annual Leave: 31 days’ annual leave (pro rata) plus bank holidays. You can also purchase an additional 10 days per annum during the request period.
- Flexible working: including the potential for job-sharing, part-time hours and agile working.
- Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 access to support and counselling.
- Payment of professional membership fees (based on role requirements).
- Pick your perks – access to a range of retail, leisure, holiday and health benefits (savings, cash back and discounts).
Why Choose Us
Herefordshire offers countryside and open spaces, cultural assets, vibrant theatres and a thriving food and drink sector. Our Talk Community approach supports people to help themselves and communities to help individuals. Our transformation programme aims to offer an all-age approach to benefit all residents of Herefordshire.
Equal Opportunities
Herefordshire Council is committed to strengthening a diverse and inclusive work environment. If you require reasonable adjustments or alternative application methods, contact the resourcing team by email: enquiries@hoopleresourcing.co.uk.
Safeguarding and Vetting
We take safeguarding seriously. If offered this position, it will be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service check.
How To Apply
To apply, upload an up-to-date CV and complete the application form demonstrating your experience, skills and abilities for the role. For more information or to arrange an informal discussion, contact cwrecruitment@herefordshire.gov.uk. Include the reference to the job description and person specification. Hoople Resourcing will contact shortlisted candidates with interview details.
Note: This description reflects the key duties and requirements of the role and may be subject to change.
Senior Best Interest Assessor - DoLS in Hereford employer: WMJobs
Herefordshire Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and flexible work environment for Senior Best Interests Assessors. With a commitment to employee growth through clear career progression pathways, generous annual leave, and a comprehensive benefits scheme, staff are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. The picturesque location of Herefordshire, with its rich cultural assets and community-focused initiatives, enhances the overall work experience, making it a rewarding place to contribute to meaningful change in people's lives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Best Interest Assessor - DoLS in Hereford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the field of Best Interests Assessors and DoLS. Attend relevant events or webinars to meet people who can give you insights or even refer you to opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on the Mental Capacity Act and DoLS specifics. We recommend creating a list of potential questions and practising your responses, focusing on your experience and how it aligns with the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for human rights and advocacy during interviews. Share real-life examples of how you've upheld these values in your previous roles, as this will resonate well with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Best Interest Assessor - DoLS in Hereford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience as a Best Interests Assessor. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your relevant qualifications and experiences!
Showcase Your People Skills:Since this role is all about collaboration and supporting others, let us know about your people skills! Share examples of how you've worked effectively with teams or supported individuals in your previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise:When filling out the application form, keep your answers clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforwardness, so make sure you communicate your skills and experiences without unnecessary fluff!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at WMJobs
✨Know Your Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the Mental Capacity Act, DoLS, and relevant case law before your interview. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but can apply it in practice.
✨Showcase Your People Skills
As a Senior Best Interests Assessor, your people skills are crucial. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated and collaborated with colleagues and clients in past roles. This will demonstrate your ability to lead and support others in the team.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your decision-making and problem-solving skills. Think about complex cases you've handled and be ready to explain your thought process and the outcomes. This will highlight your practical experience and judgement.
✨Express Your Commitment to Human Rights
The role emphasises upholding human rights, so be prepared to discuss your values and commitment to this principle. Share specific instances where you advocated for clients' rights or contributed to policy development, showcasing your alignment with the council's mission.
