Preparing for Adulthood Team Social worker

Job Description

4 Month Contract With A Local Authority

Job Purpose

Hackney Council is seeking a qualified and experienced Social Worker to join its Preparing for Adulthood (PfA) Service, a dynamic, integrated, multi-disciplinary community team supporting young adults with learning disabilities, autism, mental health needs, and physical disabilities.

The post holder will work with young people aged 18–21 (and their families / carers), supporting their transition from Children’s Services into Adult Social Care. The role requires strong professional curiosity, sound knowledge of legislation, and a commitment to strengths-based, trauma-informed practice to promote independence, inclusion, and positive life outcomes.

Newly qualified Social Workers (PO1) will receive enhanced supervision, guidance, and a reduced caseload. Upon successful completion of ASYE, progression to PO2 will be automatic.

Key Responsibilities

Undertake Care Act (2014) assessments, reviews and outcome-focused support planning using a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach.

Support young people aged 18–21 transitioning from Children’s Services to Adult Social Care, promoting independence, inclusion and positive life outcomes.

Work with adults with learning disabilities, autism, mental health needs, and physical disabilities, including those with complex and multiple needs.

Complete Mental Capacity Act assessments, Best Interest decisions and contribute to Court of Protection work where required.

Lead and contribute to adult safeguarding enquiries, applying Making Safeguarding Personal principles and managing risk effectively.

Work collaboratively with Children’s Services, Education, Health, and an integrated multi-disciplinary team including psychology, psychiatry, nursing and therapy services.

Develop and review personalised, outcome-focused support plans, including the use of direct payments, advocacy, and preventative services.

Provide high-quality information, advice, and signposting to service users, carers and families to enable informed decision-making.

Maintain accurate, timely and high-quality case recording in line with local and national performance standards.

Prepare clear, evidence-based reports for reviews, safeguarding meetings and legal proceedings.

Actively promote equality, diversity and inclusion, challenging discrimination and supporting equitable access to services.

Engage in regular supervision, reflective practice and ongoing continuous professional development.

Requirements

Qualified Social Worker with a recognised Social Work qualification (Degree, DipSW or CQSW).

Registered with Social Work England.

Experience of working in Adult Social Care, ideally within Preparing for Adulthood / Transitions or with young adults with complex needs.

Sound working knowledge of the Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act, DoLS, and adult safeguarding legislation.

Experience of completing Care Act assessments, support planning and reviews using a strengths-based approach.

Ability to undertake capacity assessments, Best Interest decisions and contribute to Court of Protection work.

Experience of working with people with learning disabilities, autism, mental health needs, and / or physical disabilities.

Strong ability to work collaboratively with families, carers, Children’s Services, Education, Health and multi-disciplinary teams.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to produce high-quality reports.

Confident case management skills, with the ability to prioritise workload and meet statutory timescales.

Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusive practice.

Willingness to work within a hybrid model (minimum 2 days per week on site).

Enhanced DBS clearance (or willingness to obtain).