Social Worker

Job Description

Make a Lasting Impact – Join Our Mental Health & Substance Misuse Social Work Team

Are you ready to make a meaningful difference in the lives of adults facing mental health challenges and substance misuse? If so, we’d love to hear from you.

At East Sussex County Council, our commitment is clear: to empower adults, maximise independence, and ensure individuals have a strong voice in the decisions that affect their lives. As a Social Worker in our Adult Social Care Mental Health & Substance Misuse Team, based in Hastings, you’ll play a pivotal role in supporting some of the most vulnerable members of our community—and you’ll be supported every step of the way by a dedicated, compassionate team.

About the Role

You’ll manage a diverse and rewarding caseload, providing specialist social care for adults with complex mental health needs and substance misuse challenges. Your responsibilities will include:

• Conducting statutory assessments and developing personalised care plans
• Investigating safeguarding concerns in line with national frameworks (see UK safeguarding guidance)
• Coordinating support packages and making informed recommendations to panels and courts
• Collaborating closely with families, carers, and partner agencies to build sustainable support networks
• Training as an Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP) and participating in the AMHP rota as required

You’ll work with adults aged 18 to 70 who have severe and enduring mental health needs, as well as adults 18 and over with substance misuse issues, with no upper age limit.

As demand for our services continues to grow, we’re embracing innovation and adaptability—offering you ample opportunity to develop professionally and shape how we deliver care.

Flexible Working That Works for You

This role supports hybrid working, with a blend of home working, office presence, and in-person client visits. You’ll need to demonstrate that you can meet the travel requirements of the role, and we’ll support you with the necessary tools to do your best work—wherever you are.

What We’re Looking For

We’re seeking qualified social workers who are passionate about improving lives and driving positive outcomes.

You’ll need to be:

• Registered with Social Work England (check registration here)
• A qualified Social Worker who has completed the Assessed and Supported Year in Employment (ASYE)
• Experienced in working with vulnerable adults and their families in a statutory setting
• Confident in completing assessments, applying legal frameworks, and formulating care plans
• Knowledgeable in areas of psychological development, systemic practice, and evidence-based interventions

How to Apply

Click ‘Apply now’ to submit your CV and a covering letter, outlining how you meet the criteria listed in the job description and person specification.

Please note: This advert may close earlier than stated if we receive a high volume of applications—so apply early to avoid disappointment.

• Interviews will be held during the week commencing 16 or 23 June via Microsoft Teams. If you prefer an in-person interview or need to request an alternative time, please let us know in your application.
• View the full Job Description & Person Specification
•  For an informal chat, please contact Tara O’Connor at Tara.O’Connor@eastsussex.gov.uk

Why Work for East Sussex County Council?

We offer more than just a job—we offer a career with purpose, development, and wellbeing at its heart. Our benefits include:

• A generous Local Government Pension Scheme
• Hybrid working arrangements to suit your lifestyle
• Extensive training and professional development opportunities
• A lease car scheme (subject to eligibility)
• Wellbeing and wellness training and support programmes
• Reimbursement of your annual Social Work England registration fee
• And much more – view our full list of benefits

Important Additional Information

• This post is subject to an Enhanced DBS check. For more information on this process, visit gov.uk DBS guidance.
• If you’ve lived or worked overseas, you may need to provide an overseas police check.
• If you require visa sponsorship, please let us know in your application so we can check eligibility. For more details, see the UK Government work visa page.
• If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process due to a disability, please contact the hiring manager to discuss how we can support you.

“For work that makes a difference.”

Come and be part of a team that’s transforming lives—yours included.