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Browse our latest social work jobs

Controlling your social work career has never been easier with Sanctuary Personnel, the UK's leading social work recruitment agency. Whether you are newly qualified, early on in your career or looking for a senior position, discover new social work job opportunities today!

Team Manager, Children...

Slough
£61,632 - 63,824 per year

Sanctuary Personnel, an innovative and committed recruitment agency has a new permanent position available for a Team Manager within the Children Looked After Team to work Full Time based in Slough. The salary for this Team Manager job is up to £63,824 per annum. Main duties: As a member of Slough Children First’s Management Team, lead the team providing appropriate support and challenge to ensure the delivery of high-quality services, accurate and timely case file records and the effective use of resources to statutory and legislative requirements. Make clear decisions around threshold for cases that are part of legal planning meetings, strategy decisions, ensuring at each point risk is evaluated and decisions are recorded on the case file. Carry out regular quality assurance activities including observations, case reviews, team and peer moderated audits that collaboratively involve social work staff to support their professional development, improve the consistency of practice and seek the views of families. Attend Head of Service Performance clinics with a clear narrative for performance in their team and actions to be undertaken to address areas for development. Create, implement and monitor a team plan which links to service and strategic objectives with the overall aim to improve performance. Responsible for the regular and effective appraisal of staff performance through Slough Children First’s appraisal process in order to provide clear direction and challenge to prevent drift and delay. Leads team meetings to a high standard, ensuring that service and corporate messages are cascaded to the team in a timely way and supporting effective two-way communications back up to managers from the team. Ensure that all members of the team have the capacity to attend training to support their on-going professional development and enable continuous improvements in practice. Supports the Assistant Team Manager to make effective day-to-day use of all available professional resources, addressing barriers and issues across Slough Children First and with partners where required through the development and maintenance of professional links with partner agencies and the voluntary sector, whilst supporting the links of the Assistant Team Manager. Deputise for the Health of Service, undertake projects and other additional duties, as required. To undertake work outside office hours as necessary. Requirements of this Team Manager job: A social Work Qualification or equivalent. Understanding of relevant legislation. Registered or eligible for registration. Contact: This Team Manager job is advertised by Alex Moon; if you are interested in this position please click above to apply now. Due to the high volume of applications we receive, regretfully we are only able to respond to candidates who meet our clients' requirements. As a pioneer of diverse recruitment, Sanctuary Personnel is proud to encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds as our pool of candidates is very much reflective of the clients that candidates will support within their role. This very much played a significant in previously winning ‘Best Candidate Care’ at the Recruiter Awards as well being a two-time finalist for the same award. Sanctuary takes great pride in building candidate and client relationships that promote Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI). With recruitment consultants and all other employees undertaking annual online training on EDI and many other compliance training courses, Sanctuary is best placed to undertake a fair and thorough selection process. Reasonable Adjustments: If you consider yourself to have a disability or require any reasonable adjustment during the recruitment process or within the workplace, please highlight this at the earliest opportunity. With this information, we will provide appropriate support to you throughout the process and into your work placement.

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Assistant Team Manager...

Surrey
£52,942 - 57,125 per year

Sanctuary Personnel, an innovative and committed recruitment agency has a new permanent position available for an Assistant Team Manager within the Adult Locality Team to work Full Time based in Surrey. The salary for this Assistant Team Manager job is up to £57,125 per annum. Main duties: Provide leadership and professional support to colleagues and other professionals in situations of high complexity. Apply extensive knowledge of practice, theory and legislation to enhance practice, procedures and policies, promote innovation, and introduce new ways of working from recognised sites of excellence. Make use of sophisticated, critical reasoning and both model and facilitate reflective and evidence-informed practice. Support and encourage professional decision-making in others, to enable assessment procedures to be used discerningly in response to the presenting needs. Maintain and provide expertise in specialist assessment and intervention and support others to develop these skills. Model the effective assessment and management of risk in complex situations, across a range of situations, including positive risk-taking situations. Provide professional leadership on safeguarding issues in collaboration with other senior members of the team. Provide support to resolve concerns about practice. Manage a defined team or area providing clear organisation, direction and development. Provide professional support, advice and/or supervision. Monitor and support the performance management and development of team members using a coaching approach, to support individual development and ensure that individual contributions are maximised. Promote positive working relationships in and across teams and with partners in statutory, voluntary and third sector organisations, using strategies for collaboration and arbitration. Contribute to and provide professional leadership of organisational change and development and address performance management issues that arise. When required, monitor, analyse and manage delegated budget, funding and resources in accordance with council policies and procedures, or have indirect influence on wider service budget. Requirements of this Assistant Team Manager job: A social Work Qualification or equivalent. Understanding of relevant legislation. Registered or eligible for registration. Contact: This Assistant Team Manager job is advertised by Stefan Garrett; if you are interested in this position please click above to apply now. Due to the high volume of applications we receive, regretfully we are only able to respond to candidates who meet our clients' requirements. As a pioneer of diverse recruitment, Sanctuary Personnel is proud to encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds as our pool of candidates is very much reflective of the clients that candidates will support within their role. This very much played a significant in previously winning ‘Best Candidate Care’ at the Recruiter Awards as well being a two-time finalist for the same award. Sanctuary takes great pride in building candidate and client relationships that promote Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI). With recruitment consultants and all other employees undertaking annual online training on EDI and many other compliance training courses, Sanctuary is best placed to undertake a fair and thorough selection process. Reasonable Adjustments: If you consider yourself to have a disability or require any reasonable adjustment during the recruitment process or within the workplace, please highlight this at the earliest opportunity. With this information, we will provide appropriate support to you throughout the process and into your work placement.

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Social Worker - Adults...

Barrow-in-Furness District
£34 per hour

JOB-20240819-db742659 Are you an experienced Social Worker looking for an opportunity to truly transform lives? Look no further! At Sanctuary Personnel, we understand the immense impact you can make, and we are here to support you every step of the way. As a dedicated and award-winning recruitment agency with a TrustPilot score of 4.9/5 and nearly 1000 reviews, we believe in the power of personal connections. We are seeking Social Workers with UK experience to join our team and embark on a fulfilling journey with us. Let's connect and explore the incredible possibilities that lie ahead for you. Location: Barrow Team/Specialism: Adults Long Term Intervention Service Pay Rate: £34 per hour (assignment rate) Contract: Locum, 3-Month contract Hours: Full-time Why work with us? Effortless Registration: Say goodbye to paperwork! Our fully online and paperless registration service streamlines the process, making it convenient and hassle-free for you. Compliance Made Easy: Enjoy peace of mind with our free DBS and compliance service, which includes paid-for mandatory e-learning and practical training modules tailored to your needs. Exclusive Opportunities: Unlock access to prestigious Social Work roles that you won't find elsewhere. From collaborating with NHSBT to supporting vital projects at The Home Office and Vaccination Centres or relocating candidates to Australia, The Falkland Islands and many other destinations, our network opens doors to diverse and impactful assignments in the UK and globally. Expert Guidance and Support: Benefit from personalised clinical governance and revalidation support from our in-house qualified health professional with over 15 years of experience. We're here to ensure you're always on top of your game. Rewarding Referral Program: Spread the word and reap the rewards! Refer a friend with social work experience and receive a generous £250 bonus once they've completed just 100 hours of work. The best part? There's no limit to how many social work friends you can refer. Professional Development: Working as a locum in Social Work provides opportunities for continuous professional development. You may encounter new challenges, technologies, and best practices in different settings, which can enhance your clinical skills and knowledge. Main duties of the Social Worker: Conduct assessments of adults' needs, strengths, and risks under the Care Act 2014 Develop personalized care and support plans, ensuring these address long-term needs Use professional judgment to determine eligibility for services and resources Requirements of the Social Worker: Degree or equivalent in social work Current Social Work England registration Significant frontline experience in Social Services within the UK working as a qualified Social Worker Contact: This Social Worker job is advertised by Nathan Rowe. If you are interested in this position, please click above to apply now. We welcome applications from Social Workers who meet the above requirements. Please note that while we regretfully can only respond to experienced Social Work candidates who meet the specified requirements for this role, we encourage you to explore our open roles that may be more suitable for you. Reasonable Adjustments: At Sanctuary Personnel, we value inclusivity and diversity. If you consider yourself to have a disability or require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or within the workplace, please highlight this at the earliest opportunity. With this information, we will provide appropriate support to you throughout the process and into your work placement. Transform lives and make a difference as a Social Worker with Sanctuary Personnel. Apply now to embark on an exceptional career journey!

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Senior Social Worker -...

Guildford
£46,399 - 49,588 per year

Sanctuary Personnel, an innovative and committed recruitment agency has a new permanent position available for an Adult Senior Social Worker within the Mental Health Team to work Full Time based in Surrey. The salary for this Senior Social Worker job is up to £49,588 per annum. Main duties: Take professional responsibility for managing a complex caseload which will include individuals, children, carers and families who require support and guidance. Demonstrate confident and effective judgement about risk and accountability in decision-making and be able to sustain engagement with fluctuating circumstances and capacities, including where there is hostility and risk. Use assessment procedures discerningly in response to the presenting needs and to ensure that a proportionate assessment is completed in  away that enables maximum participation. Use professional judgement, employing a range of interventions, promoting independence, providing support and protection, taking preventative action and ensuring safety whilst balancing rights and risks. Take the lead in managing positive interventions that prevent deterioration in health and wellbeing whilst safeguarding people at risk of abuse or neglect. Undertake assessment and planning for safeguarding in more complex cases, and support colleagues by utilising safeguarding skills, in line with current policies and procedures. Play a leading role in practice development, help promote and sustain a learning culture and mentor less experienced staff. Deliver formal professional reflective supervision and provide guidance and advice regarding casework to less experienced qualified staff. Where required, take the role of practice educator (or train as a practice educator) for students and the role of ASYE assessor and supervisor for newly qualified social workers in the team. As part of the supervision and appraisal process provide support with personal and professional development. Share and present professional knowledge and expertise to colleagues within the team and with other partners. Take professional and personal responsibility for clear recording of analysis and judgements, maintaining up to date case work records on the database as required by Surrey. Take responsibility for working within the Directorate’s data protection policies. Requirements of this Senior Social Worker job: A social Work Qualification or equivalent. Understanding of relevant legislation. Registered or eligible for registration. Contact: This Senior Social Worker job is advertised by Stefan Garrett; if you are interested in this position please click above to apply now. Due to the high volume of applications we receive, regretfully we are only able to respond to candidates who meet our clients' requirements. As a pioneer of diverse recruitment, Sanctuary Personnel is proud to encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds as our pool of candidates is very much reflective of the clients that candidates will support within their role. This very much played a significant in previously winning ‘Best Candidate Care’ at the Recruiter Awards as well being a two-time finalist for the same award. Sanctuary takes great pride in building candidate and client relationships that promote Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI). With recruitment consultants and all other employees undertaking annual online training on EDI and many other compliance training courses, Sanctuary is best placed to undertake a fair and thorough selection process. Reasonable Adjustments: If you consider yourself to have a disability or require any reasonable adjustment during the recruitment process or within the workplace, please highlight this at the earliest opportunity. With this information, we will provide appropriate support to you throughout the process and into your work placement.

Apply now

Adult Senior Social Wo...

Guildford
£46,399 - 49,588 per year

Sanctuary Personnel, an innovative and committed recruitment agency has a new permanent position available for an Adult Senior Social Worker within the Royal Surrey County Hospital to work Full Time based in Surrey. The salary for this Senior Social Worker job is up to £49,588 per annum. Main duties: Take professional responsibility for managing a complex caseload which will include individuals, children, carers and families who require support and guidance. Demonstrate confident and effective judgement about risk and accountability in decision-making and be able to sustain engagement with fluctuating circumstances and capacities, including where there is hostility and risk. Use assessment procedures discerningly in response to the presenting needs and to ensure that a proportionate assessment is completed in a way that enables maximum participation. Use professional judgement, employing a range of interventions, promoting independence, providing support and protection, taking preventative action and ensuring safety whilst balancing rights and risks. Take the lead in managing positive interventions that prevent deterioration in health and wellbeing whilst safeguarding people at risk of abuse or neglect. Undertake assessment and planning for safeguarding in more complex cases, and support colleagues by utilising safeguarding skills, in line with current policies and procedures. Play a leading role in practice development, help promote and sustain a learning culture and mentor less experienced staff. Deliver formal professional reflective supervision and provide guidance and advice regarding casework to less experienced staff. When required, take the role of practice educator (or train as a practice educator) for students and the role of ASYE assessor and supervisor for newly qualified social workers in the team. As part of the supervision and appraisal process provide support with personal and professional development. Share and present professional knowledge and expertise to colleagues within the team and with other partners. Take professional and personal responsibility for clear recording of analysis and judgements, maintaining up to date case work records on the database as required by Surrey County Council. Take responsibility for working within the Directorate’s data protection policies. Requirements of this Senior Social Worker job: A social Work Qualification or equivalent. Understanding of relevant legislation. Registered or eligible for registration. Contact: This Senior Social Worker job is advertised by Stefan Garrett; if you are interested in this position please click above to apply now. Due to the high volume of applications we receive, regretfully we are only able to respond to candidates who meet our clients' requirements. As a pioneer of diverse recruitment, Sanctuary Personnel is proud to encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds as our pool of candidates is very much reflective of the clients that candidates will support within their role. This very much played a significant in previously winning ‘Best Candidate Care’ at the Recruiter Awards as well being a two-time finalist for the same award. Sanctuary takes great pride in building candidate and client relationships that promote Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI). With recruitment consultants and all other employees undertaking annual online training on EDI and many other compliance training courses, Sanctuary is best placed to undertake a fair and thorough selection process. Reasonable Adjustments: If you consider yourself to have a disability or require any reasonable adjustment during the recruitment process or within the workplace, please highlight this at the earliest opportunity. With this information, we will provide appropriate support to you throughout the process and into your work placement.

Apply now

Adult Social Worker - ...

Guildford
£40,929 - 43,735 per year

Sanctuary Personnel, an innovative and committed recruitment agency has a new permanent position available for an Adult Social Worker within the Epsom General Hospital to work Full Time based in Surrey. The salary for this Social Worker job is up to £43,735 per annum. Main duties: Take professional responsibility as directed for managing a caseload which will include individuals, children, families and carers who require support and guidance. Enable them to identify their needs and plan support to meet those needs using the full range of options, seeking advice and support where appropriate. Demonstrate confident and effective judgement about risk and accountability in decision-making. Use assessment procedures discerningly in response to the presenting needs and to ensure that a proportionate assessment is completed in a way that enables maximum participation. Provide information, advice and guidance in line with current national legislation and to recognise the need for, and appropriately signpost to other agencies, services or providers. Understand the forms of harm and their impact on people and be able to identify safeguarding concerns. Where relevant and with support undertake assessment and planning for safeguarding. Share and present professional knowledge and expertise with colleagues within the team. When appropriate provide professional reflective supervision to staff who are not professional qualified. Take professional and personal responsibility for clear recording of analysis and judgements, maintaining up to date case work records on the database as required by Surrey. Take responsibility for working within the Directorate’s data protection policies. Requirements of this Social Worker job: A social Work Qualification or equivalent. Understanding of relevant legislation. Registered or eligible for registration. Contact: This Social Worker job is advertised by Stefan Garrett; if you are interested in this position please click above to apply now. Due to the high volume of applications we receive, regretfully we are only able to respond to candidates who meet our clients' requirements. As a pioneer of diverse recruitment, Sanctuary Personnel is proud to encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds as our pool of candidates is very much reflective of the clients that candidates will support within their role. This very much played a significant in previously winning ‘Best Candidate Care’ at the Recruiter Awards as well being a two-time finalist for the same award. Sanctuary takes great pride in building candidate and client relationships that promote Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI). With recruitment consultants and all other employees undertaking annual online training on EDI and many other compliance training courses, Sanctuary is best placed to undertake a fair and thorough selection process. Reasonable Adjustments: If you consider yourself to have a disability or require any reasonable adjustment during the recruitment process or within the workplace, please highlight this at the earliest opportunity. With this information, we will provide appropriate support to you throughout the process and into your work placement

Apply now

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Find out what our social work candidates say about us

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​I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank you for your consistent effort, drive and determination to secure me a permanent position. I am eternally thankful. Being out of practice for nearly two years, you have rebuilt my self esteem as well as my confidence in returning to work. Your regular check ins and helpful advice have motivated me throughout this process.

Althea

Social Worker
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​“Last year was a challenging time in my social work career. I lost confidence, lost motivation and contemplated if this career was for me. I want to say a massive thank you to Sanctuary for believing in my experience, I was truly at my lowest and they took the time to listen. The following day, they had sourced interviews for me. I can truly say I will never forget this experience and how helpful Sanctuary was.”

Dionne

Social Worker
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My consultant at Sanctuary Social Care is the best recruiter I’ve ever had. He’s responsive. He identifies exactly the type of job I want and social work I need and works hard and promptly to secure it.

Jan

Social Work Manager
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I would not hesitate to recommend Sanctuary to others as I have personally experienced a service and support over and above what has been expected.

Shane

Social Worker
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I have worked with several social work agencies over the past 3 years and can confirm that the service received from Sanctuary is excellent. They make a real difference.

Iva

Senior Practitioner
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My Sanctuary consultant has so much gravity and common sense in his approach to his work. He is polite, quick on the uptake, innovative and very motivational.

David

Social Worker
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Sanctuary Social Care worked closely with me to understand how my work in referral and assessment at Doncaster was directly transferable to the role advertised at Rotherham.

Kellie

Child Sexual Exploitation Manager
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I've been with Sanctuary now for over 10 years and have had the same consultant throughout. I've got to say, the service provided by Sanctuary has been second to none. It’s been exceptional.

Ashia

Social Worker

​Our social work blog

Our social care blog is home to a rich source of social work news and careers resources.

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social care

What's New in Social Care and Healthcare this Week? (26/02/24)

​Hello everybody! Welcome to another week's social care and healthcare news; we've compiled five of the most interesting and noteworthy news items from recent days and created an easy-to-digest, time-efficient article you can read with a quick cup of tea! Without further ado, then, let's get into it.1. Adults in their Early Twenties Struggling with Poor Mental HealthA report has revealed a concerning trend: people in their early 20s are now more likely to be out of work due to ill health than those in their early 40s, marking a significant shift from previous patterns where older age correlated with health-related unemployment. This change is attributed to the rising poor mental health among young people, which adversely affects their educational achievements and job prospects.Official data shows that one in 20 young individuals were economically inactive due to ill health in 2023, with young people now experiencing the worst mental health conditions compared to other age groups. The Resolution Foundation's findings stress the economic impact of poor mental health, particularly on young non-graduates, and call for improved mental health support and educational attainment to prevent a "lost generation."2. Junior Doctors StrikingJunior doctors in England are on their tenth strike in a pay dispute with the government, leading to significant disruption in NHS services, particularly affecting hospital operations and check-ups.The British Medical Association (BMA) demands a 35% pay rise, a claim the government deems unreasonable. Health Secretary Victoria Atkins has urged the BMA to halt the strikes due to their considerable impact on the NHS, while BMA leaders argue for a credible offer to reverse over a decade of pay cuts.The strike, involving a substantialportion of junior doctors, exacerbates tensions in the health sector, with the BMA planning to ballot for a new six-month strike mandate as negotiations remain stalled. Public support for the doctors remains mixed, with ongoing concerns about patient care and treatment delays.3. Calls for Responsible Use of AI in Social CareExperts and representatives from over 30 organisations convened at the University of Oxford to address the responsible use of generative AI in adult social care. Highlighting the technology's potential benefits, they also expressed concerns about its rapid development and application, emphasising the need for guidelines to ensure it respects human rights and quality care standards.Dr Caroline Green stressed the urgency of developing knowledge and guidance on generative AI's ethical use in social care. The meeting concluded with a commitment to create practical guidelines and engage a broader community in the technology's responsible integration into social care services. Find out more here.4. Healthcare Workers Still Awaiting PaymentEmployers express significant concern as up to 20,000 health workers in England, including community nurses and physiotherapists employed by social enterprises, have not received a promised one-off payment of nearly £1,655. This payment, part of a deal agreed last May that also included a 5% pay rise, was extended in November to include these workers after initial exclusion.Despite assurances, there's been a lack of communication and clarity from the government on when the funds will be disbursed. Social Enterprise UK, representing these employers, has highlighted the delay as a failure to fulfil the government's commitment, affecting frontline staff who have been awaiting the bonus for nearly a year.5. Charity Furnishing Homes for Domestic Abuse SurvivorsEmily Wheeler, a social worker turned interior designer, founded Furnishing Futures to combat furniture poverty among social housing tenants, particularly focusing on domestic abuse survivors. These individuals often receive empty housing with no essential items, driving some back to abusive situations due to the lack of basic living conditions.Wheeler's charity transforms these spaces by providing furniture, white goods, and flooring, significantly impacting survivors' lives by turning empty spaces into homes. Furnishing Futures, which started in 2019, has already furnished over 80 homes and aims to expand its efforts nationally. Learn more about the story in Sky News' comprehensive article, here.Find Your Next Social Care or Healthcare Job, Now!If you've been searching for your next social care or healthcare job, then we'd love to help you out. Check out our roles, today, or contact us directly! However you wish to get in touch, we look forward to hearing from you!  

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social care

What's New in Social Care and Healthcare this Week? (19/02/24)

​As another week rolls around, it's time to look at the most noteworthy recent news stories from the worlds of healthcare and social care. We know you're busy; that's why we keep it short, sweet and to the point. Everything you need to know in the time it takes to drink a cup of tea. Let's crack on.1. New Drug for Parkinson's Being LaunchedNHS England announces the rollout of a groundbreaking treatment for advanced Parkinson's disease, benefitting nearly 1,000 patients. The new therapy, Produodopa, utilises a portable pump to deliver a continuous flow of medication directly into the bloodstream, providing round-the-clock symptom control.This innovative treatment, combining foslevodopa and foscarbidopa, aims to significantly reduce the current reliance on multiple daily medications and improve the quality of life for sufferers. Approved by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence after successful clinical trials, Produodopa offers a promising alternative to existing treatments, including deep brain stimulation.2. Overseas Dentist Applicants Could Have Exam ScrappedThe UK government is exploring a proposal to allow foreign dentists to practice in the country without undergoing a skills examination, aiming to alleviate the current NHS dentist shortage.This initiative is part of a broader £200 million NHS Dental Recovery Plan for England, including increased pay for NHS dental work, the introduction of "dental vans" in underserved areas, and £20,000 bonuses for dentists in these regions.The British Dental Association criticises the plan, arguing it fails to address the fundamental issues driving dentists away from the NHS. The proposal, which is open for a three-month consultation, seeks to enhance dental appointment availability by 2.5 million next year.3. Prisoners Face Lengthy Wait for Mental Health BedsPrisoners with severe mental illnesses in the UK face excessive delays in receiving hospital care, with an average wait of 85 days, far beyond the 28-day target. The Chief Inspector of Prisons highlighted the issue, noting instances where inmates waited up to 462 days for transfer to a hospital, exacerbating their conditions in unsuitable prison environments.The report criticises the NHS and the Ministry of Justice for the backlog, attributed to a lack of secure beds and bureaucratic delays. Despite some improvements in prison mental health units, the system's failure to promptly transfer severely ill inmates to appropriate care facilities remains a significant concern, with experts calling for urgent action to address the shortfall in mental health service provision.4. Cheshire East Council Requests Funding to Avoid Going BankruptCheshire East Council has become the latest in a string of local authorities to request additional funding, with the council seeking "exceptional financial support" from the government to avoid declaring bankruptcy, requesting an additional £17.6 million to manage significant financial pressures.These pressures include costs associated with cancelling the HS2 rail project's northern leg and increased expenditures on special educational needs (SEND).The council aims to avert the issuance of a Section 114 notice, which signals a local authority's spending exceeding its available funds. Facing a projected £13 million overspend this financial year and with £14.1 million in reserves, the council has already implemented cost-saving measures.The requested funds would help mitigate the risk of financial insolvency, allowing the council to maintain essential services and manage its restructuring efforts.5. Change Needed in Social Care Funding, Says ProfessorA professor from the University of Birmingham has outlined why he believes a change in social care funding is required. Jon Glasby, Professor of Health and Social Care and Head of School of Social Policy, discusses how the assumption that social care in the UK is funded similarly to the NHS, and hence freely available, often leads to shock when individuals learn this isn't the case, especially during crises.The funding mechanisms for adult social care, heavily means-tested and targeted towards those with severe needs and low incomes, starkly contrast with the NHS's more universally accessible model. Despite numerous reviews and proposed reforms since the late 1990s, effective implementation has faltered, mainly due to political unpopularity.The article (which can be read here) underscores the necessity of reevaluating this funding disparity, advocating for a more integrated approach that reflects the value placed on supporting disabled and older individuals within society.Final ThoughtsSo, there you have it, your weekly news roundup of everything that's been going on related to the worlds of healthcare and social care. As always, we're here to help you find your next role in these sectors – if you're interested, then get in touch!

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social care
social work

Why You Need to Do CPD for Social Work (Plus Examples)

Continuing professional development (CPD) is integral to being a social worker here in England. Indeed, CPD is essential to maintaining being registered with Social Work England, with the organisation requiring a minimum of two pieces of CPD per year, one of which has to include a peer reflection component.A commitment to CPD is one of Social Work England's six professional standards (Standard four: "Maintain my continuing professional development"). In this article, we'll unpack why CPD is so crucial for social workers and some examples of CPD you might conceivably undertake. Without further ado, then, let's get stuck in.Why is CPD Necessary for Social Workers?​Besides ensuring you can stay registered with Social Work England, CPD helps practitioners not only maintain their practice but improve upon it, too. The reflection and learning activities that make up CPD are conducted by social workers throughout their careers and not just early on. All registered social workers in England must undertake (and record) CPD.By carrying out routine CPD, social workers can keep up with a complex and ever-changing field of work. Whether it's the latest social work theory, ethics, or legislation developments, CPD helps social workers stay updated with their practice. In doing so, they provide better overall care to service users and deliver more favourable outcomes.What's more, engaging in CPD showcases accountability and robust ethical principles. Not only does it demonstrate to service users that you're committed to them and their progress, but it also reassures colleagues and society more broadly that professional growth is at the forefront of your mind as a social worker.Examples of CPDThere are many CPD opportunities out there for social workers, ranging in style and scope. They include:Self-directed learning and reflective practice. Social workers can read the latest materials and textbooks on social work theory or engage with any other kind of relevant educational materials, to learn in a self-directed manner. Structured courses and workshops. Alongside self-directed learning, you can also participate in a structured learning course or workshop. An example of this might be a dementia awareness course, for instance, or an LGBTQ+ awareness course. Peer learning. Social workers can engage with their peers in both formal and informal learning setups. This knowledge exchange strengthens social workers' practice and fosters greater bonds between colleagues and peers. Supervision. Supervision provides a structured environment for reflective practice, allowing social workers to constructively criticise (and be constructively criticised) other colleagues and thus foster a deeper understanding of their work and how it can be improved.  Teaching and training. Delivering training sessions, lectures, or workshops to peers, students, or other professionals. This contributes not only to the CPD of the social worker but also to the professional development of others.Note: this list isn't exhaustive.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)How Do You Record Your CPD?Social Work England lets you easily record and track your ongoing CPD through their online portal. You can find a link to it here.What are the CPD Requirements for Social Work England?To stay registered with Social Work England, at least two CPD entries are required annually.What Happens if You Don't Do CPD?You must carry out the requisite CPD each year to be able to renew your status as a Registered social worker with Social Work England. If you're not registered, you can't practise in England.Browse Our Social Work Roles Today!If you're after your next social work role, look no further – we've got you covered! Here at Sanctuary Personnel, we have a wide range of social work positions on offer just waiting for you to take a look at them. So, don't delay; get in touch today!

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social care

What's New in Social Care and Healthcare this Week? (05/02/24)

​There's been a lot of news in the worlds of healthcare and social care this past week, and we're here to tell you all about it. So, if you want five of the most noteworthy news stories all packaged in one easy-to-read list, you've come to the right place!1. Pharmacy First Scheme LaunchesThe UK government and NHS England launched the Pharmacy First scheme on January 31, 2024, to allow patients direct access to treatment for seven common conditions at local pharmacies without needing a GP appointment.This initiative aims to alleviate pressure on GP services by enabling pharmacists to supply prescription-only medicines, including antibiotics and antivirals, for conditions like sinusitis, sore throat, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections.With over 10,000 pharmacies participating, the program seeks to free up millions of GP appointments annually and enhance healthcare accessibility. Find out more about the scheme in our recent blog post, here.2. Criticism of Social Care Migration PolicyThe UK government's approach to recruiting care home staff from overseas has been criticised as "dangerous" by industry leaders due to new restrictions preventing overseas workers from bringing their families.With a significant staff shortage in the sector and 152,000 vacancies in England alone, the policy is causing concern among care providers reliant on foreign workers.The government has introduced measures to support care workers, but the restrictions have sparked debate over their impact on the care sector and its ability to recruit and retain necessary talent. Find out more here.3. Cancer Survival Rate Improvements Slowing DownA Cancer Research UK study indicates that the improvement in cancer survival rates has markedly slowed, with progress in the 2010s being five times slower than in the 2000s.Although the likelihood of surviving cancer for a decade or more in the UK is at an all-time high, increasing to 49.8% in 2018 from 47.9% in 2010-11, there's a concern over insufficient funding for research which could jeopardise future medical advances.The report highlights the critical role of screening programs and research in saving lives but warns of a potential £1bn funding gap that could impact the fight against cancer.4. Prime Minister Admits Failure to Cut Waiting ListsPrime Minister Rishi Sunak acknowledged in a TalkTV interview with Piers Morgan that the UK government has not met its commitment to reduce NHS waiting lists in England. Despite setting this as a priority in January 2023, Sunak admitted that progress had not been sufficiently made, attributing part of the issue to the impact of industrial actions within the health service. In spite of record investments and increased resources like doctors and nurses, ongoing disputes with junior doctors and consultants continue to affect the NHS's ability to reduce waiting times.5. Wiltshire Social Workers Declare Strike ActionWiltshire social workers, represented by the GMB union, have declared a three-month strike action, occurring every weekend until May 19, 2024. This action comes in response to proposed pay cuts by Wiltshire Council, which would eliminate a contractual out-of-hours bonus, affecting some employees' annual salaries by up to 20%. The dispute, ongoing for two years, highlights the tension between council financial claims and the impact on frontline staff, with concerns about the ability to retain qualified social workers.Want a Job in Healthcare or Social Care? Are you ready for your next career opportunity in social care or healthcare? If so, then we're here to help. Check out our jobs today, or get in touch directly to see how we can help.

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social care

What's New in Social Care and Healthcare this Week? (29/01/24)

The social care and healthcare news cycle rarely sleeps, and such is the case this week. Here at Sanctuary Personnel, we provide you with all the latest, noteworthy news stories for you to take on quickly and easily – we know how busy you are, and we value your time. So, with that said, here's what's been going on.1. MPs Criticise Authorities in Response to Death of Alfie Steele​In a tragic case of child neglect, MPs have criticised the failure of authorities in handling the case of nine-year-old Alfie Steele. Alfie was subjected to severe abuse, leading to his death, despite over 60 complaints to police and social services.Wyre Forest MP Mark Garnier and Birmingham Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton expressed frustration over repeated failures to protect children like Alfie. The safeguarding review revealed significant shortcomings in agency responses, treated in isolation rather than collectively.2. Social Care Charging Reforms May Yet See Further DelaysThe UK government may face further delays in implementing social care charging reforms. Sir Chris Wormald, a senior civil servant, indicated that the pressure on councils might hinder their ability to manage complex new tasks associated with these reforms.Initially planned for October 2023, the reforms, including a lifetime cap on social care costs, were postponed to 2025. This delay, originally due to financial constraints, now also reflects concerns about local authorities' capacity amidst various pressures.3. Thousands of Sexual Abuse Complaints in NHS Mental Health TrustsAn investigation by Sky News and The Independent has uncovered nearly 20,000 complaints of sexual assault, abuse, and harassment in NHS mental health trusts in England since 2019.The investigation, prompted by former British youth swimmer Alexis Quinn's allegations of sexual assault in psychiatric care, reveals a distressing pattern of sexual safety incidents in mental health wards.Despite government efforts to eradicate mixed-sex wards, hundreds of allegations continue to emerge, highlighting a systemic issue in NHS psychiatric care. This situation has been described as a national scandal, demanding urgent attention and action.4. Disposable Vape Pens to Be Banned for ChildrenThe UK government plans to ban disposable vapes as part of efforts to curb the increasing trend of vaping among young people. Statistics from Action on Smoking and Health (Ash) indicate a rise in vaping among 11 to 17-year-olds, from 4.1% in 2020 to 7.6%.Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, emphasising the need to address this worrying trend, is expected to detail the plans during a school visit. The ban targets disposable vapes, which are seen as a significant factor in youth vaping. The government aims to implement the ban by early 2025, with a six-month adjustment period for retailers.Health Secretary Victoria Atkins expressed confidence in the bill's passage before the upcoming general election. The move follows efforts to create a "smoke-free generation," including a ban on cigarette sales to individuals born after January 1, 2009.5. Playing Instrument Later in Life Beneficial, Study FindsAccording to a study published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, UK researchers suggest that playing musical instruments or singing could enhance brain health in older adults. Involving over 1,100 participants, primarily aged 68, the University of Exeter study explored how musical activities impact cognitive abilities.The findings reveal that playing instruments, particularly piano or keyboard, significantly benefits memory and complex problem-solving skills. Interestingly, simply listening to music showed no cognitive health improvement.The study, supported by the National Institute for Health and Care Research, underlines music's potential role in public health strategies to mitigate cognitive decline and dementia risks in ageing populations.Want a Role in Social Care or Healthcare?If you're ready for your next healthcare or social care role, we'd love to hear from you! Here at Sanctuary Personnel, we have a vast range of positions available, from social worker jobs to nursing roles and much more besides. Get in touch today, and we'll start you on the journey to your next job!

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social care
social work

How Can Social Workers Protect their Mental Health?

​It's no secret that, for as rewarding a profession as it is, social work can be incredibly stressful for those practising it.Poor mental wellbeing and burnout often go hand in hand with social work, so learning how to keep the cup from emptying, metaphorically speaking, is paramount to staying well and supporting a social work career of any longevity.In this article, we'll look at what social workers can do to look after their mental health needs, from getting regular exercise to prioritising self-care and more.Why are Social Workers Prone to Poor Mental Wellbeing?Social work is a challenging vocation in which practitioners experience volatility, tumult, and vulnerability. It's not unusual for a social worker to experience the full spectrum of human emotion – from joy and delight to gut-wrenching sadness – all in one work shift.In physical geography, there's an erosion concept known as freeze-thaw action. This is where water expands when it freezes and contracts as it melts back into liquid. Over time, the more this freezing and thawing happens, the greater the crack that forms.Social work and its highs and lows can be thought of in much the same way. Repeatedly going from one emotional state to another and then back again can take its toll and drain reserves of compassion.So, too, can a relentless stream of negativity, which, unfortunately, is also what social workers are often exposed to. Stretched resources, unmanageable caseloads, and complex interactions make for a sapping experience that can easily lead to compassion fatigue.So, whether it's continually oscillating between positive and negative emotions or simply experiencing one uninterrupted period of difficulty, it's no wonder that social workers are at significant risk of adverse mental health. Fortunately, though, there are things you can do to combat these risk factors.1. Establishing Clear Boundaries Between Work and Home LifeWe get it; social work is so often so demanding that it can be easy for personal and professional boundaries to become blurred, and that's putting it mildly. However, the more you can delineate the two and keep them separate, the better your mental health will be.So, take that lunch break every day and during it, avoid checking your emails or working on case notes. Clock off at five (or whenever your set hours are) every day if you're able, and again, don't check your work emails once you get home for the evening. Again, we realise it can be difficult (nigh-on impossible much of the time) with social work demands to consistently take lunch or avoid working out of hours, but really try if you're able because it will make a big difference.As tempting as it can be to be, in effect, 'on call' 24/7, this will only worsen your risk of burning out emotionally (and physically) in the longer run. You can't fill from an empty cup; your best work will come when you're well-rested.2. Get Some ExerciseWe won't be the first to advocate this and we certainly won't be the last, but the reason for that is because it's good, empirically backed advice. Exercise helps alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety and other mental health problems.Getting your body moving isn't simply good for you physically but mentally, too. During difficult work periods, when you're combatting staff shortages, for instance, or managing particularly complex caseloads, it can't be overstated just how beneficial getting out for a brisk walk or taking a quick cycle can be to take the edge off things.When we exercise, our bodies release feel-good chemicals called endorphins; it's why you'll often hear reference to the so-called "runner's high", a post-exercise period of elevated mood. So, if you can, carve out a little time during the week to exercise and really see it as you time.3. Focus on Improving Sleep HygieneSleep hygiene has become something of a buzzphrase in recent times, but it's understandable why. The quality of sleep we get can significantly impact our mood and mental state the next day.Persistent poor sleep can lead to chronic levels of fatigue, which in turn can contribute to depressive symptoms. It's essential when we're talking about sleep that we target that quality aspect just as much as we do quantity.Of course, getting enough sleep is vital and experts recommend that you get between 7 and 9 hours of sleep per night. It's just as important that you're getting sleep of a decent quality, however.To do that, try to avoid blue light (which devices like mobile phones give off) before you go to bed, dim your room lights to avoid bright light, and factor in some winding down time in which you read, try meditation or some gentle stretching.4. Establish a Mindfulness RoutineMindfulness is the art of bringing your awareness back to the present moment and what's going on, both internally and externally, without judgment.As a social worker, it's easy to get wrapped up in worrying about future problems and issues rather than grounding oneself in the present and what's happening in the here and now.By taking even five minutes out of your day to practise a mindfulness technique – like the leaves on a stream exercise – you can reduce your anxiety and worries to a more manageable level.Simple breathwork exercises can have a similar effect. Box breathing, also known as square breathing, is a quick and straightforward way to bring down stress levels.5. Remember... Prevention is Preferable to Cure – Talk to Your Manager and ColleaguesThe sooner you can nip poor mental wellbeing in the bud, the easier it is to get back on top of things and feel like yourself again. If your situation is getting on top of you, don't be afraid to seek help.A problem shared is a problem halved, and often, the very act of talking about what you're going through can alleviate some of the pain. You'd be surprised at just how many people might be going through something similar, and that sense that you're not alone in your suffering can be restorative in and of itself.Looking for a New Social Work Opportunity?If you've been looking for the next step in your social work career, Sanctuary Personnel can help. With a wide range of social work positions available, there's bound to be something that fits your needs. So, get in touch today to find out more!

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