Job Description
Senior Social Workers – Adult Social Care
Suffolk County Council | Various Locations Across Suffolk
Salary: £38,925 – £44,305 per annum (pro rata for part-time)
Permanent | Full-Time & Part-Time Opportunities Available
Retention Bonuses: £1,000 (2 years), £1,500 (3 years), £2,000 (5 years)
UK-Based Applicants: Visa Sponsorship May Be Available
At Suffolk County Council, we’re building a forward-thinking, collaborative social care service that puts people first—and we’re inviting experienced Senior Social Workers to join us in shaping its future.
This is more than just a role; it’s an opportunity to make a real impact, supporting adults with complex needs while developing your own career in a thriving, values-led environment.
What You’ll Be Doing
As a Senior Social Worker in our Adult Social Care service, you’ll play a crucial role in:
- Managing a complex caseload and supporting peers with theirs
- Providing specialist advice and contributing to practice standards
- Building strong, collaborative relationships with NHS teams, care providers, voluntary groups, and partner agencies
- Mitigating risk and improving outcomes for vulnerable adults through a strengths-based approach
You’ll also champion innovation, helping drive improvements in how we deliver care—always keeping people at the heart of what we do.
What We’re Looking For
We’re looking for skilled professionals who bring:
- Significant experience in adult social work, including complex case management
- Confidence in mentoring colleagues and sharing expertise
- In-depth knowledge of current legislation, policy, and best practice
- Experience understanding the financial considerations of commissioned care
- The ability to assess risk and make clear, evidence-based decisions
Essential:
- Social Work qualification and Social Work England registration
- Completion of the Assessed and Supported Year in Employment (ASYE)
- Minimum of two years’ CPD at an advanced level
- A valid driving licence and access to a vehicle
Even if you don’t meet every requirement, we still encourage you to apply—we’re open to supporting the right candidates to grow into the role.
Current Vacancies by Team
 The Willows (Ipswich East)
A small, specialist team supporting adults with Organic Mental Health conditions, especially those eligible for Section 117 Aftercare. Focused on hospital discharge and complex care planning in collaboration with NSFT and wider MDTs.
 Bury Town (Bury St Edmunds)
A dynamic, supportive team covering Bury and surrounding villages. We handle assessments under the Care Act and Mental Capacity Act, manage safeguarding concerns, and run a duty service to address urgent needs.
 Waveney (Great Yarmouth & North Suffolk ICB)
An integrated health and social care team leading innovation across the region. You’ll work with passionate colleagues—including Occupational Therapists and Independence & Wellbeing Practitioners—while helping shape countywide best practice. Main base is at Riverside, with occasional visits to JPUH.
Why Join Suffolk County Council?
We’re committed to helping you thrive—both professionally and personally. Here’s what you can expect:
- Up to 29 days’ annual leave (pro rata), plus bank holidays and 2 paid volunteering days
- Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
- Annual pay progression, plus annual cost-of-living increases
- Six protected CPD days a year for registered social workers
- Flexible and hybrid working options from day one
- Access to systems like LAS (LiquidLogic Adults’ System) and mobile devices to work efficiently
- Career progression and development pathways, backed by strong mentorship and support
- Diverse staff networks and a strong culture of inclusion and empowerment
- Health, wellbeing, travel, and lifestyle benefits
We Value Diversity and Inclusion
We’re proud to serve a vibrant, diverse community—and we’re just as committed to building a workforce that reflects that diversity. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and especially encourage those from underrepresented groups to apply. Learn more in our Workforce Equality Report.
How to Apply
- Read the full Job and Person Profile (docx)
- Click ‘Apply Now’ on the Suffolk County Council careers website
- Upload a CV (anonymised—no name or personal details) in PDF or MS Word format
Please note: Applications without a CV cannot be progressed.
If you need any reasonable adjustments during the application or selection process, email recruitment@suffolk.gov.uk or call 03456 014412.
- Closing Date: 11:30pm, 7 July 2025
- Interview Date: 21 July 2025
Get in Touch
For an informal chat about these roles, contact:
Beverly Chambers – Email: beverly.chambers@suffolk.gov.uk | Phone: 01394 605058
Explore more on our Adult Social Care Careers Page
Reimagine the possibilities with Suffolk County Council—where your passion and expertise can shape a better future for others, and for yourself.