We are seeking a motivated and skilled Social Worker to join our Short Term Assessment and Reablement Team (START) in Derbyshire Dales.
START provides time-limited, strengths-based support to adults following hospital discharge or during periods of crisis, with a focus on maximising independence, promoting recovery, and reducing long-term care needs.
You will play a key role in supporting individuals through short-term interventions, enabling safe and timely discharge from hospital, and supporting people to regain skills, confidence, and control over their lives.
We are looking for a practitioner who shares our commitment to putting people first, working collaboratively, and achieving meaningful outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
- Undertake strengths-based assessments in line with the Care Act 2014
- Support safe and timely hospital discharges and admission avoidance
- Develop, implement, and review short-term reablement plans
- Promote independence and wellbeing, supporting individuals to reach their personal goals
- Identify and respond to safeguarding concerns, including leading Section 42 enquiries
- Work in partnership with health professionals, therapists, and community services
- Make clear, evidence-based decisions regarding ongoing support and eligibility
- Maintain accurate, timely, and accountable case records
About You
We are looking for a Social Worker who:
- Is registered with Social Work England
- Has experience in adult social care and a strong understanding of relevant legislation
- Demonstrates a person-centred and strengths-based approach, recognising people as experts in their own lives
- Works with honesty, integrity, and accountability, taking ownership of decisions and actions
- Is confident in balancing risk, independence, and positive outcomes
- Thrives in a fast-paced environment, managing competing priorities effectively
- Works collaboratively, respecting and valuing the contributions of others
- Is committed to continuous learning, reflection, and professional development
Our Values and Behaviours
We are looking for someone who will actively demonstrate our core values in their day-to-day practice:
- Putting People First – listening to individuals, respecting their strengths, and supporting them to make their own choices
- Working Together – building positive relationships with colleagues, partners, and communities to achieve the best outcomes
- Being Accountable – taking responsibility for your work, making sound professional judgments, and delivering on commitments
- Striving for Excellence – being proactive, solution-focused, and committed to improving outcomes and service delivery
What We Offer
- A supportive and collaborative team environment
- Regular supervision and opportunities for reflective practice
- Ongoing training and professional development
- Flexible working arrangements (where applicable)
- A dynamic role where you can make a direct and meaningful impact
Why Join START?
Our START team is central to delivering effective adult social care. We strive to support people to recover, rebuild independence, and avoid long-term care wherever possible.
You’ll be part of a service that values innovation, partnership working, and high-quality practice, helping people achieve positive outcomes at a time when it matters most.
For more information about the role, or an informal chat, please email Catherine.Cutt@derbyshire.gov.uk
Provisional interview date – 02 September 2026
