Independent Living Service Caseworker

at  Gateshead Council

YOU MUST HAVE KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE OF …

• An understanding of the Integrated Care System and its role.
• Knowledge and understanding of how poor or inadequate housing can negatively impact on a person’s health.
• Understanding of housing management practices e.g. Health and Safety, Repairs and Maintenance and Adaptations.
• Understanding of legislation, such as the Care Act 2014 and Housing Act.
• Knowledge of the role of Home Improvement Agencies can play in improving the health, safety, and welfare of residents.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Good organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Basic knowledge of building regulations and home adaptations, or willingness to learn.
• Empathy and understanding of the needs of vulnerable people/children, and those with complex needs including mental and/or physical health and learning disabilities.
• Previous experience in casework or a similar client facing role.
• Familiarity with government grants, particularly DFG and other funding options available to support home adaptations.
• Experience of communicating with people at all levels to provide support, guidance and advice to other officers, Councillors and members of the community.
• Experience of presenting written and verbal information in a clear and concise manner.
• Experience of working with budgets and within their constraints.
• Experience of producing reports.

YOU MUST HAVE THE FOLLOWING QUALIFICATIONS.

• English and Mathematics GCSE’s at Level 4 or above (Grade C or above).
• A degree in social work, community services, or a related field is advantageous but not essential.

An opportunity has arisen for a Case Worker within the Council’s Independent Living Service. The service provides aids and adaptations in their homes to help people to live independently at home for longer. The role will involve working with service users, carers, council members and partner agencies alike, to plan and implement services and provisions and in accordance with assessed needs, risks and legislative frameworks. You will triage incoming referrals and work with the team to deliver the service they need. You will act as an advocate and single point of contact to the customer, ensuring they have a positive customer journey through our service. You will liaise and provide specialist advice to our customers, their carers and partner agencies on available funding streams and grants (from the council’s own grants as well as from charitable organisations). You will prepare evidence-based reports on the work we complete and make recommendations in relation to ensuring we deliver value for money adaptations.
Please take a look at the full job profile. It’s important that you read it in full and check that you meet the essential criteria.