Advanced Practitioner Social Worker

Description:

Somerset Council is inviting applications for the role of Advanced Practitioner Social Worker in the Learning Disability and Autism Service (Adults). This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced and accomplished social work professional to step into a leadership role supporting a small, collaborative team dedicated to delivering personalised and strengths-based support to adults with learning disabilities and autism across East Somerset.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide professional supervision and informal support to a team of four Social Workers and two Adult Social Care Practitioners.

• Share responsibility for managing the duty system and rota alongside other Advanced Practitioners, including involvement in crisis interventions and positive risk management.

• Engage in weekly Peer Forum discussions to critically evaluate and influence care decisions and personal budget requests.

• Foster strong partnerships with internal teams such as Preparing for Adulthood, Mental Health, Safeguarding, CHC, Commissioning, OT, and external health professionals within Somerset Foundation Trust.

• Champion the “Three Conversations” model of strength-based, personalised social care to help service users achieve independent, fulfilling lives.

• Influence service delivery through leadership, critical thinking, and collaboration.

• Support learning and development across the team and promote best practices in adult social care.

Essential Requirements:

• Recognised qualification in Social Work with significant post-qualification experience.

• Professional registration and license to practice in the UK.

• Access to and use of a personal vehicle is essential.

• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills.

• Demonstrated capability in supervising teams and managing complex caseloads.

• Deep understanding of adult safeguarding, risk management, and personalised care planning.

Benefits:

• Annual Leave: 30 days per year plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase up to 2 additional weeks (pro rata).

• Hybrid Work Model: Flexibility to work from home and office locations in Yeovil or Shepton Mallet.

• Relocation Support: Up to £8,000 available for eligible candidates.

• Development Opportunities: Access to CPD, professional qualifications, apprenticeships, coaching, mentoring, and Somerset’s Carnival of Practice.

• Pension: Local Government pension scheme.

• Wellbeing Support: Mental health resources, online gym, wellbeing ambassadors, staff Q&A sessions, and social activities.

• Perks: Blue Light Card discounts, My Staff Shop offers, cycle-to-work scheme, discounted lease car and fuel options.