Social Work Assistant

Job Description

3 Month Contract With A Local Authority

Job Purpose

To support older people experiencing mental ill health by undertaking assessments, care planning, reviews and interventions that promote independence, wellbeing and positive outcomes.

The postholder will work within an Integrated Multi-Disciplinary Team, supporting citizens, carers and families through a strengths-based and outcome-focused approach. The role involves assessing needs, managing caseloads, coordinating support services, safeguarding adults at risk and contributing to effective multi-agency working in accordance with relevant legislation, policies and procedures.

Key Responsibilities

Assessment & Case Management

• Support older people with mental health needs to maximise independence and wellbeing.
  
• Assess needs, risks and support requirements in line with statutory duties and Council procedures.
  
• Manage and prioritise an allocated caseload.
  
• Develop, implement and review care and support plans.
  
• Undertake reviews of services and support packages.
  
• Assist individuals, families and carers to identify goals and make informed decisions.
  
• Promote strengths-based and person-centred approaches.
  

Safeguarding & Risk Management

• Identify and assess risks to vulnerable adults.
  
• Support safeguarding enquiries and interventions.
  
• Work within the Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014 framework.
  
• Contribute to protecting adults at risk from abuse, neglect or harm.
  
• Escalate safeguarding concerns appropriately.
  

Multi-Disciplinary Working

• Work within integrated health and social care teams.
  
• Participate in:
  • Multi-Disciplinary Team Meetings
    
  • Discharge Planning Meetings
    
  • Best Interest Meetings
    
  • Continuing Healthcare Assessments
    
• Liaise with health professionals, carers, families and partner agencies.
  
• Contribute to coordinated care planning and service delivery.
  

Support for Individuals & Carers

• Work directly with individuals, families and carers to identify needs and outcomes.
  
• Support carers through assessment and access to services.
  
• Provide information, advice, advocacy and guidance.
  
• Assist individuals to access community resources and support networks.
  

Administration & Record Keeping

• Maintain accurate case records and documentation.
  
• Prepare reports, assessments and support plans.
  
• Record information in accordance with Council procedures and data protection requirements.
  
• Use case management and information systems effectively.
  

Professional Responsibilities

• Participate in supervision, appraisals and team meetings.
  
• Work within legal, policy and procedural frameworks.
  
• Contribute to service improvement and quality assurance activities.
  
• Maintain professional standards and continuous learning.
  
• Promote equality, diversity and anti-discriminatory practice.
  

Requirements

Essential

• Good general education.
  
• Experience working with older adults and/or people experiencing mental ill health.
  
• Experience managing a caseload in a health, social care or support environment.
  
• Knowledge of:
  • Mental Health Act 1983 (as amended)
    
  • Adult Safeguarding
    
  • Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014
    
  • Relevant social care policies and procedures
    
• Strong assessment and risk analysis skills.
  
• Ability to write clear, concise records and reports.
  
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  
• Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
  
• Strong organisational and workload management skills.
  
• Advocacy and partnership-working skills.
  
• Good IT skills and ability to use electronic recording systems.
  
• Full UK Driving Licence and access to a vehicle.
  

Desirable

• Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP) qualification.
  
• Best Interests Assessor (BIA) qualification.
  
• Ability to speak Welsh or other community languages.
  
• Experience within Older Persons Mental Health services.
  
• Experience working in hospital discharge or integrated care settings.
  

Additional Information

• Department: Mental Health Services for Older People
  
• Location: Llandough Hospital
  
• Hours Per Week: 37 Hours
  
• Payment Frequency: Bi-Weekly Payments