Qualified Social Worker - Hospital Discharge

The Adult Social Care Hospital Social Worker plays a crucial role in evaluating the needs of patients, especially older adults and those with complex health and social care requirements, to organise their discharge from hospital. The main goal is to avoid unnecessary hospital admissions and readmissions by ensuring strong community
support.
Essential Skills and Qualifications
● Qualifications: recognised social work qualification (e.g., Degree in Social Work,
DIPSW, CQSW).
● Registration: current registration with Social Work England.
● Experience: significant experience in adult social care, ideally within a hospital
or fast-paced environment.
● Knowledge: extensive understanding of relevant legislation, policies, and best
practices (e.g., Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act 2005).
● Skills: Excellent assessment, communication, negotiation, and problem-solving
skills. Ability to work autonomously and as part of a team.
● The successful candidate should have resilience and the ability to work effectively
under pressure, considering the crucial nature of discharge planning and patient
flow. They must maintain accurate and current records in accordance with
professional standards and organisational policies. Additionally, they should be
capable of completing all necessary documentation related to assessments, care
plans, and safeguarding.
● Conduct comprehensive social care assessments for patients within tight
timeframes.
● Identify and evaluate complex needs, including safeguarding issues, mental
capacity, and variable conditions.
● Develop person-centred care plans in collaboration with patients, their families
or carers, and multidisciplinary teams.
● Advise on and facilitate access to suitable social care services, equipment, and
adaptations.
1
● Liaise effectively with a wide range of internal and external partners, including
health professionals, voluntary organisations, housing services, and other local
authority departments.
● Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and case conferences.
● Identify and respond to adult safeguarding concerns in accordance with local
policies and procedures.
● Work collaboratively with other agencies to ensure the protection of vulnerable
adults.
● Work closely with hospital staff (doctors, nurses, therapists) to facilitate safe and
timely discharges.
● Coordinate discharge plans, including arranging care packages, residential care,
or other community-based support.
● Ensure that all necessary arrangements are in place to support the patient's
transition from hospital to home or other suitable environment

If you are interested in this role please send your updated CV in the first instance.