JOB PURPOSE:

1. Within the chosen service area to carry a complex workload reflecting high levels of risk, uncertainty and challenge, in line with the capability of an experienced Social Worker with a minimum of two years' post qualification experience in a social work role. To have responsibility for mentoring and supporting the practice development of less experienced Social Workers. Regular supervision will be in accordance with the departmental supervision policy.

2. To work within relevant current legislation and the procedural framework of Bedford Borough Council (the Council).

3. To work collaboratively with children, young people and their families/carers to assess their needs and plan and deliver services in accordance with the social work team's service area.

4. To model best social work practice in a manner consistent with the overall vision and aims of the service

MAIN ACCOUNTABILITIES:

1. Work in partnership with children, young people and their families/carers and, through building effective relationships, to elicit their needs and views and promote participation in decision making. Communicate skilfully and confidently in complex or high risk situations, applying an understanding of the benefits and limitations of partnership work.

2. Undertake assessments in accordance with statutory/regulatory and operational standards, policy, and procedures for the service. Anticipate, assess and manage risk to children and young people in more complex situations and produce high quality assessments.

3. Plan, implement and review a range of interventions for children, young people, families/carers in accordance with statutory/regulatory and operational standards, policy and procedures for the service.

4. Manage a complex workload independently, establishing a network of internal and external colleagues from whom to seek advice and expertise. Model and help others with effective workload management skills.

5. Make pro-active use of supervision to support effective practice, reflection and career development and to meet the objectives of Professional Development Reviews.

6 Maintain accurate, up to date records safely and confidentially in accordance with the Council's policies and procedures. Produce succinct, well-structured records and reports, clearly recording and reporting analysis and judgements.

7. Pro-actively engage with colleagues and a range of organisations to identify, assess, plan for and support the needs of children, young people, families/carers in order to promote positive change and independence, whilst demonstrating confident and effective judgement about risk to children and young people.

8. Play a leading role in practice development within the team, through mentoring and modelling good practice in assessment, interventions and inter- professional and inter-agency work.

9. Carry out all duties in accordance with the Council's Equal Opportunities Policy and other policies designed to protect employees and service users from harassment. It is the duty of the post-holder not to act in an oppressive or discriminatory manner towards employees or service users. The post-holder should respond to such practice or behaviour by challenging or reporting it.

10. Meet the requirements of the Professional Capabilities Framework, Experienced Social Worker level, and of registration with the HCPC in respect of practice standards, conduct and professional development.