Location
Kingston upon Thames, Royal Borough of Kingston Upon Thames, Zone 6 with excellent transport links in and out of London.

Hours
Full Time, hybrid working model with two days per week office-based at the Guildhall office and the remainder working from home.

Salary
£52,194 per annum

About the Role
The Senior Social Worker will be based within the New Malden Hub, one of three locality teams in Adult Social Care at the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames. This multi-disciplinary team delivers targeted, strength-based interventions for adults aged 18 and older with long-term care needs, primarily supporting older adults and individuals with physical disabilities. The role involves early, proactive engagement with residents and carers following referral, co-producing outcome-focused support plans, and working closely with the Reablement service to maximise independence and quality of life.

Key responsibilities include leading high-risk, complex Section 42 safeguarding enquiries as the Lead Enquiry Officer, providing professional guidance and supervision to newly qualified social workers, support coordinators, and students, managing a complex caseload using strength-based and preventative principles, conducting Mental Capacity Assessments and chairing Best Interests meetings, and championing best practice through peer-review sessions and service development initiatives.

The role supports a healthy work-life balance through a hybrid working model and a strong focus on staff wellbeing, including team bonding activities, reflective peer groups, and protected focus time. This position offers an exceptional opportunity to promote positive outcomes, lead safeguarding initiatives, and champion independence across the borough.

Experience
Proven post-qualifying experience managing high-risk adult care cases, with demonstrated ability to model best practices, supervise colleagues, and make sound clinical decisions under pressure. Experience in safeguarding leadership and complex casework is essential.

About you
Committed to delivering high-quality social work within a supportive and resilient environment. Able to work collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary team and engage proactively with residents and carers. Strong leadership skills with the ability to mentor and supervise colleagues. Demonstrates transparency, authenticity, and alignment with the organisation's values.

Qualifications
A recognised degree in Social Work (BA, BSc, MA, DipSW, or equivalent). Active registration with Social Work England. Comprehensive knowledge and application of the Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act 2005, and local adult safeguarding frameworks. Legal right to work in the UK.