Rough Sleepers Specialist Social Worker
Richmond and Wandsworth Councils | Full-time
Posted 45 days ago
Location type: Office
Closing date: Sunday 8th March 2026
Ref no: randw/TP/17402/9016
Do you have a particular passion for supporting people who have experienced street homelessness?
Are you a qualified and experienced Social Worker looking for a new role within a fast developing sector with a strong focus on innovation and problem solving?
If yes, we have the perfect role for you!
An exciting opportunity has presented within the Adult Social Care and Health Directorate for two Social Workers to operate within the rapidly developing Street Homeless Pathway in Richmond and Wandsworth boroughs.
The role is a new post, with funding initially available for one year from the start date. This role is offered as a secondment to permanent staff or as a one-year fixed term contract to external staff.
About the role
The successful candidate will have an interest in street homeless/ rough sleeping issues and an understanding of the multiple disadvantages this cohort experience in accessing statutory and non-statutory services.
We are looking for an experienced, enthusiastic and dynamic Social Worker who is looking for a creative career development opportunity.
The successful candidate will need to be innovative and flexible with a strong belief in/ experience of effective partnership working. You will need to have excellent communication skills, both written and verbal and be able to manage a complex case load whilst also being expected to contribute to the overall enhancement of service user’s experience and engagement with rough sleeper services in the borough.
To be successful in the role, a comprehensive knowledge and application of relevant legislation is required. The role includes undertaking assessments of need under the Care Act, Mental Capacity Assessments, Human Rights Assessments, and statutory Section 42 Safeguarding Enquiries.
The role will be based within the Richmond and Wandsworth Mental Health and Substance Misuse Service, with line management provided by the Specialist Street Homeless Senior Social Worker. However, the successful candidate will be expected to work alongside a variety of professional teams, including the local outreach service, Rough Sleeping Mental Health Team (RAMHP), Drug and Alcohol Service and Rough Sleeper Team within the Council.
To be shortlisted to interview for this position your application will clearly evidence:
- A relevant social work qualification and Social Work England membership
- Passed your ASYE year, and have experience in frontline Social Work
- Creative planning, risk assessment & assessment skills
- Experience of working across voluntary and statutory agencies
- An excellent communicator
- Understand the needs of rough sleepers, including adults with mental health and substance misuse needs
- Applied knowledge of relevant legislation and guidance