Experienced Forensic Social Worker

This is an excellent opportunity to work alongside supportive colleagues within a multi-agency team, collaborating closely with the Dorset Forensic Team to deliver comprehensive care planning.

The role involves responsibility for care management of individuals under the Dorset Forensic Team’s caseload. This includes people in secure forensic units, prisons, and the community. The social worker will need specialist knowledge of mental health and forensic services. The position also includes responsibility for social supervision and requires strong experience in effective risk management.

Key duties include fulfilling responsibilities under the Care Act 2014 and the Mental Health Act 1983, completing assessments as part of an integrated service with the Dorset Forensic Team. The role requires attendance at MAPPA meetings, participation in virtual out-of-area MDTs and ward rounds, and conducting face-to-face visits in wards, prisons, and community settings to complete assessments.

The social worker must maintain close communication with the Dorset Forensic Team to jointly assess risk and plan support for individuals across community, hospital, and prison settings, ensuring that any provision is safe and appropriate. Home visits and regular contact will vary depending on the support provided by the Dorset Forensic Team.

When a patient is recalled or due for release or discharge, the social worker must be able to prioritise work effectively to meet the demands of the role, including completing reports and assessments and responding to the needs of adults open to the service. Occasionally, the social worker may also need to respond to wider mental health social care needs within Dorset Council, such as 117 reviews or providing advice and guidance for high-risk patients.

The role also involves triaging referrals alongside the Dorset Forensic Team.

The post will be based at the St Ann’s forensic office for a minimum of two days per week, with the option to work from home.

This post involves working with children and/or vulnerable adults and/or having access to significant information about them. It will be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service check. See our policy on the employment of ex-offenders.