Social Worker or Trainee Social Worker

Job Introduction

SOCIAL WORK, WELFARE & EXPERIENCE

Make a Difference Every Day at David Lewis

Trainee Social Worker

Salary: £27,500 - £32,000 per annum (depending on qualifications and experience)

OR

Social Worker

Salary: £34,000 - £41,000 per annum (depending on experience)

At David Lewis, we're passionate about enabling people with complex needs to live their best lives. As one of the UK's leading specialist providers, we support individuals with learning disabilities, epilepsy, autism and acquired brain injuries through outstanding education, residential, therapeutic and community services.

We're now looking for either a Trainee Social Worker or a Qualified Social Worker to join our Social Work, Welfare & Experience Team. Whether you're looking to begin your social work career or bring your existing expertise to a unique specialist setting, this is an opportunity to make a genuine difference whilst developing your skills in a supportive and values-led organisation.

Why David Lewis?

At David Lewis, our people are at the heart of everything we do. When you join us, you'll become part of a collaborative and dedicated team where your contribution is valued, your wellbeing is supported, and your development is encouraged.

Our Employee Value Proposition is built around:

• Purpose with impact – helping people achieve outcomes that matter to them.
• Growth and development – opportunities to learn, progress and fulfil your potential.
• A supportive culture – working alongside passionate and experienced colleagues who genuinely care.
• Wellbeing and balance – recognising the importance of supporting our people both inside and outside of work.
• Innovation and excellence – continually striving to deliver the very best outcomes for the people we support.

For Trainee Social Workers, we're proud to offer a fully funded BA (Hons) Social Work Degree through the Open University, providing an excellent pathway into a rewarding professional career.

About the Role

This is a rewarding and varied role supporting the people we support, their families and our colleagues across the organisation.

You will provide both proactive and responsive social work support, working collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams and external professionals to promote positive outcomes and ensure individuals remain at the centre of decision-making.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Supporting and, where appropriate, leading safeguarding enquiries and investigations.
• Coordinating safeguarding processes with local authorities and partner agencies.
• Championing the principles of Making Safeguarding Personal, ensuring individuals' wishes, views and desired outcomes remain central to all activity.
• Supporting legal frameworks and processes, including Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS).
• Building positive partnerships with families, professionals and stakeholders.
• Contributing to the department's on-call rota.
• Maintaining clear, accurate and professional records.

About You

You'll be passionate about improving lives and committed to delivering person-centred support.

You will have:

• Experience of working with young people and/or adults with disabilities.
• Knowledge of safeguarding practices and relevant social care legislation.
• Excellent communication, organisational and relationship-building skills.
• The ability to work independently whilst contributing effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Professional curiosity, resilience and confidence to provide appropriate challenge when required

Trainee Social Worker Applicants

To be considered for the Trainee Social Worker position, you must hold the entry qualifications required to undertake a BA (Hons) Social Work Degree, which will be fully funded by David Lewis through the Open University.

Closing Date

3rd September 2026

Be Part of Something Extraordinary

At David Lewis, every role has the power to change lives. If you're looking for a career where your skills, compassion and commitment can help people thrive, we'd love to hear from you.

David Lewis is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and proudly welcomes applications from all sections of the community.