Southend on Sea City Council is a Unitary local authority, providing vital services to meet the needs of the local community. We employ around 1,800 staff who are working alongside our partners and local communities to deliver the city vision and make lives better for the people of Southend.

Working for Southend on Sea City Council offers a challenging and rewarding career in local government within a collaborative and innovate environment, with the benefit of flexible working practices to support a positive work life balance. As a Unitary Authority we are responsible for all local government functions ranging from social services, transport, public health and parks through to planning, trading standards, community safety and education, so we offer a wide range of career opportunities. The diversity of our economy and communities and investment in a number of exciting regeneration projects makes our Council a great place to work, learn and make a difference.

Southend City Council are looking to appoint an adult social care experienced Independence and Wellbeing Assessor. This is a non-qualified occupational therapy trusted assessor role, with an element of social work tasks.

The role will focus on early intervention, enablement, and prevention, supporting residents to live independently and safely within Southend on Sea and surrounding boroughs.

The focus of the role is on the use of equipment and adaptations to promote independence, safety and wellbeing for residents, reducing the need for hospital admissions and ongoing care. 

You will manage a caseload of people with care and support needs, carrying out Care Act 2014 assessments, reviews and care plans. Acting as a Trusted Assessor you will conduct timely assessments to identify environmental barriers and risks in the home environment, recommending and facilitating minor adaptations and non -fixed equipment.

Within this position, hybrid working opportunities are available. However, you are required to be on-site at the Civic Centre a minimum of 2 days a week.

To be shortlisted for the position, it is essential that you have previous experience and knowledge of working with people with disabilities within the adult social care sector and working experience of adaptations.

It is essential that you are a driver and have access to a car.

You must have a solid understanding of enablement and prevention principles, with the ability to assess functional needs and identify solutions that promote independence and safety.

Have knowledge of equipment provision, minor adaptations, and environmental risk assessment, alongside familiarity with relevant legislation, safeguarding, and social care processes.

Strong communication and negotiation skills are critical to engage residents, families, and partner agencies effectively, ensuring person-centred outcomes. Digital literacy and the ability to use assessment tools and case management systems will be important.

When joining the council, you can enjoy a range of benefits including: 25 days annual leave, flexible working and excellent training and development opportunities. They are committed to ensuring that you are supported in this varied and challenging role with the appropriate level of training. A full list of benefits provided by Southend Council can be viewed on the "Why Work For Us?" tab.

If you are interested in this role, please click 'apply online' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV.

If you would like a copy the Job Description, please Click Here

If you are wanting further information that isn't in the JD, please contact Nathalie Nathalie.s@hays.com

Please note: Applications for this vacancy may close prior to the date advertised above so you are advised to apply as soon as you are able to.

All applicants for this role will require an enhanced DBS check.

The Council is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications, regardless of race, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, age or religion or belief.