4 Month Contract With A Local Authority

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).