Social Worker, Human Services​/ Social Work

Are you a passionate, driven Social Worker looking to make a difference in the lives of adults with learning disabilities? We are seeking a committed professional to join our Learning Disability Integrated East Team, where you will play a vital role in supporting individuals to live safe, independent, and fulfilling lives within the community. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a collaborative, multi-disciplinary team that places person centred practice, empowerment, and strengths-based approaches at the heart of everything we do.

If you are a Newly Qualified Social Worker, you will complete your Assessed and Supported Year in Employment (ASYE) in your first year with us, with structured support, protected development time and access to mentoring to help you build confidence and progress in your role.

You will be part of a supportive and dynamic Learning Disability Integrated East Team, working alongside health professionals, therapists, and partner agencies to deliver high-quality, person-centred support. The team is committed to promoting independence, choice, and inclusion for adults with learning disabilities, within a collaborative environment that encourages knowledge sharing, reflective practice, and continuous professional development.

As a Social Worker, you will support adults with learning disabilities and their carers through strengths-based practice, helping individuals to achieve positive outcomes, maximise independence, and maintain their wellbeing and safety.

• Undertake strengths-based assessments, involving individuals and carers in identifying needs and desired outcomes.
• Develop, implement, and review personalised care and support plans that promote independence, choice, and positive risk-taking.
• Work collaboratively with partners and community resources to coordinate effective support and develop local opportunities.
• Lead on safeguarding enquiries and interventions, ensuring concerns are managed in line with legislation, policy, and best practice.
• Monitor and review support arrangements to ensure they remain effective, outcome-focused, and responsive to changing needs.
• Contribute to multi-disciplinary meetings, advocating for individuals and ensuring their views remain central to decision-making.
• Maintain accurate, timely records and reports in line with professional and organisational standards.

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful difference to the lives of adults with learning disabilities, using your assessment, relationship-building, and collaborative working skills to support people to live safe, independent, and fulfilling lives.

To be successful in this role, you will bring the right combination of professional knowledge, practical experience, and a commitment to delivering high-quality, person-centred support.

• A recognised Social Work qualification and registration with Social Work England.
• Experience of working with adults, ideally within learning disability services or a related field.
• A sound understanding of relevant legislation and frameworks, including the Care Act, Mental Capacity Act, and safeguarding responsibilities.

Applicants awaiting Social Work England registration are welcome to apply. Successful candidates will be appointed to a Social Work Assistant position, on the appropriate pay scale, until Social Work England registration is confirmed. Upon receipt of registration, they will transition into the Social Worker role and salary grade.

Please refer to the attached Person Specification for the full criteria.

If successful, you will be required to apply for a Disclosure and Barring Service Enhanced Disclosure.

Durham County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We expect all employees and volunteers to share this commitment. This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and therefore if successful in your application, an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be sought inclusive of a check of the Children’s Barred List and adults Barred List, due to the position working in regulated activity.

Applicants should be aware that the DBS check will disclose both spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands and warnings, in line with current legislation and will confirm whether an…