Job Description

Job Overview:

The Senior Practitioner in the Learning Disabilities Team will provide expert social work leadership, case management, and professional guidance within a multidisciplinary team. This role involves supporting individuals with learning disabilities, conducting assessments under the Care Act 2014, safeguarding vulnerable adults, and ensuring high-quality person-centred care. The postholder will also provide supervision and mentoring to junior staff, assist with complex cases, and contribute to service improvements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead on complex casework, ensuring compliance with Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act 2005, and Safeguarding procedures.
• Conduct holistic assessments to identify needs, risks, and develop care/support plans for individuals with learning disabilities.
• Supervise and mentor social workers and support staff, providing guidance on best practices.
• Work in a multidisciplinary environment, collaborating with health professionals, therapists, and external agencies.
• Champion safeguarding policies, responding to concerns and ensuring appropriate protection plans are in place.
• Make informed decisions on placements, funding, and support packages, ensuring cost-effective and person-centred care.
• Support hospital discharges and transitions, coordinating with families and relevant professionals.
• Advocate for service users, ensuring their voices are heard and rights are upheld.
• Contribute to service development and policy implementation, ensuring high-quality care delivery.

Essential Requirements:

• Qualified Social Worker (Degree or equivalent) and registered with Social Work England.
• Extensive experience in adult social care, learning disabilities, and complex case management.
• Strong knowledge of Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act, Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS), and Safeguarding Adults procedures.
• Experience supervising and supporting junior staff.
• Ability to work autonomously and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Excellent risk assessment, decision-making, and report-writing skills.