Adult Social Worker – AR

Location: Cheshire East
Service: Social Care / Adult Social Care
Grade: 9
Reporting to: Team Manager

Job Purpose

Cheshire East Council is seeking an experienced Progressed Social Worker to join its Adult Social Care service.

The successful candidate will work with vulnerable adults and their families to assess needs, identify risks and provide appropriate support to improve their quality of life. You will manage a caseload of adults with a range of needs, including mental health difficulties, physical disabilities, illness and substance misuse.

You will undertake statutory social work duties in line with relevant legislation, Council policies and procedures, including safeguarding and the Mental Capacity Act.

Key Responsibilities

• Carry out comprehensive social care assessments, identifying individual needs, risks and safeguarding concerns.
• Assess individuals during periods of crisis or significant change and determine appropriate interventions and support.
• Develop and review care and support plans tailored to the needs of individuals.
• Manage an allocated caseload effectively, prioritising work in line with statutory requirements and Council procedures.
• Work with vulnerable adults experiencing a range of difficulties, including mental health, drug and alcohol issues, physical disabilities and illness.
• Apply the principles of the Mental Capacity Act when appropriate.
• Work closely with health professionals, statutory agencies, voluntary organisations and other partners to achieve positive outcomes.
• Provide advice and arrange appropriate social care and community resources, including voluntary and third-sector services.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records and complete all required administrative processes.
• Attend supervision, team meetings and relevant training and development sessions.
• Contribute to the development and improvement of Adult Social Care services.
• Support and mentor less experienced colleagues or social work students where required.

Essential Requirements

• A recognised Social Work qualification, such as a Social Work Degree, DipSW or equivalent.
• Experience working as a qualified Social Worker within Adult Social Care.
• Experience working within a statutory Social Work service.
• Experience carrying out assessments, particularly during periods of crisis or significant change.
• Experience working with vulnerable adults and safeguarding.
• Good working knowledge and practical experience of the Mental Capacity Act.
• Experience developing appropriate care and support plans.
• Experience managing a social work caseload.
• Ability to work effectively with health professionals and other agencies.
• PQ1 or equivalent experience/progression.
• Good understanding of relevant Adult Social Care legislation, policies and procedures.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organisation and prioritisation skills.
• Good IT skills and the ability to maintain accurate case records.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a wider team.
• Willingness and ability to travel throughout Cheshire East when required.

Desirable Experience

• Experience supervising or mentoring trainee social workers.
• Knowledge of personalisation and direct payments.
• Knowledge of voluntary and third-sector services available to adults.
• Experience working with a range of professional organisations and services.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate will be an experienced Adult Social Worker who is confident undertaking statutory assessments, safeguarding work and care planning for vulnerable adults.

They will be comfortable managing a caseload independently, applying the Mental Capacity Act and working collaboratively with health professionals and other agencies. Local Authority Adult Social Care experience would be particularly relevant.