Qualified Social Worker - Adults Learning Disabilities

Learning Disability Team Gateshead.

The team…

Our Learning Disability Team is based within Adult Social Care in Gateshead. The team is made up of Social Workers, Assessing Officers, Senior Practitioner and Team Manager who work closely with other adult social care teams and external partners. It is a friendly and supportive team - you will be made very welcome!

We use a conversational approach, focusing on an individual’s strengths and the community around them, supporting Gateshead residents to live thriving lives. Teams across the service provide assessment, intervention, and support in relation to an individual’s social care needs with a focus on promoting wellbeing and independence, helping individuals take greater control over their lives by championing an early engagement model. Working in this way promotes the individual’s access to other agencies and provides them with the tools to be both physically and mentally healthy, reducing their need for long-term provisions and re-enable them where possible.

The Team works with adults with a Learning Disability . You will have knowledge of the Care Act 2014 and associated legislation as well as some awareness of the challenges young people can experience when transitioning to adulthood, particularly where they have additional needs.

The Essentials…

THE KNOWLEDGE

• Knowledge and understanding of both relevant adults social care legislation including The Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act 2005, Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards 2015, Mental Health Act 2007 (Amended), Continuing Health Care and Section 117.
• Ability to interpret social care legislation and apply it to practice whilst adhering to the Local Authority statutory responsibilities.
• Ability to analyse information, assess risk and levels of need in line with eligibility criteria.
• The management and organisation of workload including the ability to appropriately prioritise tasks and manage competing demands.
• Excellent IT and communication skills.
• Ability to work as a team member but also to use own initiative.
• Commitment to anti-oppressive practice, equal opportunities and inter agency working.
• Maintenance of the Local Authority’s social care database including the accurate recording of case observations.
• Social work theories and be able to work in a person centred way using a strengths- based approach.

THE EXPERIENCE

• Working with adults (and carers) who have physical disabilities, mental health needs and learning disabilities.
• Undertaking assessments, applying relevant criteria and where necessary identifying appropriate services to meet eligible needs.
• Understanding of the reviewing and monitoring process.
• Managing risk and being involved in the safeguarding process.
• Problem solving and evidencing decisions in a timely manner
• Responding to emergency situations and being part of team duty rota.

THE QUALIFICATIONS

• Social Work qualification
• Current registration with Social Work England
• A current full driving licence and access to a car or means to mobility support.

• A willingness to undertake relevant training as required by the Local Authority.