Emergency Duty Team

Description:

The London Borough of Lambeth is seeking dedicated and resilient Social Workers / AMHPs to join its Emergency Duty Team (EDT) — a vital service delivering out-of-hours emergency responses to vulnerable children, families, and adults in crisis. This is a unique opportunity to make a direct impact where it matters most, working evenings, weekends, and bank holidays to safeguard and support residents in urgent need.

As part of a forward-thinking and compassionate local authority, you’ll have the autonomy and flexibility to make critical decisions while being fully supported by a dynamic and collaborative team. If you thrive in fast-paced, high-stakes environments and want a role that balances professional challenge with work-life balance, this position is ideal for you.

Key Responsibilities:

• Respond to emergency referrals and statutory social care duties outside regular hours.

• Conduct initial assessments and establish safe interim solutions for individuals and families.

• Undertake Mental Health Act Assessments as an Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP).

• Act as the primary point of contact for social care services during out-of-hours periods.

• Triage and prioritize incoming work to ensure timely, policy-aligned responses.

• Engage in crisis intervention and make rapid, well-informed decisions in complex cases.

• Work collaboratively with partner agencies, including police, hospitals, and emergency services.

• Apply robust knowledge of the Children Act 1989, Care Act, Mental Health Act, Mental Capacity Act, and Safeguarding Procedures.

• Record and report cases effectively using electronic case management systems.

• Uphold high standards of professionalism, judgment, and ethical practice.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Must be a qualified Social Worker registered with Social Work England.

• Must hold Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP) status.

• Proven experience in children’s safeguarding and adult mental health.

• Strong crisis assessment and risk management skills.

• Excellent communication and decision-making capabilities.

• Ability to work autonomously while maintaining partnership with multi-agency teams.

• Proficiency in IT systems and case recording tools.

Work Schedule:

• Service operates 5:00 PM – 9:00 AM on weekdays and 24 hours on weekends and bank holidays.

• Hybrid working arrangement with flexibility for on-site and remote duties.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary with annual progression and multiple allowances.

• Up to 35 days annual leave, depending on service length.

• Hybrid and flexible working options to support work-life balance.

• Cycle to Work Scheme, including City Bike Hire participation.

• Modern working environment at Lambeth Town Hall and Civic Centre.

• Excellent transport links (5 minutes from London Underground).

• Local Government Pension Scheme.

• Professional development and supervision support.

• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion — Lambeth is a Stonewall Diversity Champion and a Living Wage Employer.

• Guaranteed interview for disabled candidates meeting minimum criteria.

Additional Requirements:

• Successful candidates will require an Enhanced DBS Certificate and Cifas check.

• Knowledge of statutory frameworks such as Working Together to Safeguard Children (2023) and the Concordat on Children in Custody (2017).

Contact Information:
For more details, please contact:
Ms. Musu Kabia – Team Manager
📧 mkabia@lambeth.gov.uk
📞 07511 867189