Social Work Assistant - DGA13869

Social Work Assistant, Unpaid Work (Justice Social Work) (16/355)

Unpaid Work remains a key feature of Scotland’s Community Payback scheme, providing those that have committed an offence the opportunity to give something back to the community.

Justice Social Work is seeking to recruit a Social Work Assistant (SWA) to assist in the delivery of Unpaid Work within Dumfries and Galloway. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a team that continues to develop practice in line with national reform. Based at our Annan unit, work is mainly within Annandale and Eskdale. As part of a cross-region team, working from other Unpaid Work bases may also be required (e.g. Dumfries, Stewartry).

With the responsibility of managing Unpaid Work orders imposed at Court, key features of the post include promoting compliance and creating opportunities for service users. In doing so, good communication skills and motivational techniques are critical. The ability to address concerns (e.g. poor compliance, hostile attitudes) is also critical, and the confidence to liaise with Court where necessary. Report writing skills are essential when liaising with Court.

Direct experience of service users is a distinct advantage, particularly in the field of Justice Social Work. Knowledge of the Justice System is also crucial, including an understanding of the risks and needs of service users attending Unpaid Work. Crucially, the successful candidate must possess strong social work values and be driven by personal and professional standards.

Working as part of a team, the successful candidate must have the ability to work collaboratively. The same ability and confidence are also required when liaising with other agencies (e.g. health services, third sector partners). With a sizeable caseload, meticulous planning and good organisational skills are essential. With accurate record keeping a key requirement of the position, the successful candidate must also have good administrative skills and be confident with the use of Excel spreadsheets and IT systems.

The role is supported by regular formal supervision from the line manager, including individual and group sessions. Informal supervision and peer support are also key features of the team and prove invaluable for the development of staff and service delivery.

The post is considered as Regulated Work with Vulnerable Children and Protected Adults, under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007. From 28 February 2011, preferred candidates will be required to join the PVG Scheme or undergo a PVG scheme update check prior to formal offer of employment being made by Dumfries and Galloway Council.

Applicants who have been resident outside the UK within the last 5 years, if offered a position, in addition to a Disclosure Scotland Check, will be required to provide a completed police record check from the police authority in the country or countries in which they were resident.

A current driving licence is an essential requirement of this post. However, if you have a disability which precludes you from holding a driving licence consideration will be given if alternative transport can be arranged.

With an exciting benefits package, working for Dumfries and Galloway Council supports you to invest in your own health and wellbeing. Employees have access to our bespoke Vivup platform with over 800 discounts on everyday essentials from top UK retailers, restaurants, utility providers and more. Employees also get access to membership of The Local Government Pension Scheme (Scotland) exclusive discounts from local businesses, a Cycle-to-Work scheme, financial support from My Money Matters, and guidance from our trained Wellbeing Champions

Here at Dumfries and Galloway Council we are committed to equality, diversity and equal opportunity with our values, which include treating everyone with dignity, fairness and respect, driving us to tackle inequality. We are looking for people that can bring different perspectives and experiences and especially welcome applications from those who are underrepresented in our organisation.

For further information please contact

Gary Cochrane, Senior Social Worker gary.cochrane@dumgal.gov.uk 07824708131