Social Worker – Learning Disabilities (Adults) Jobs in the UK 2026 | Somerset Council | Visa Sponsorship Available
Are you a qualified Social Worker looking to build a rewarding career in the United Kingdom? Somerset Council is recruiting a Social Worker – Learning Disabilities (Adults) to join its dedicated Adult Social Care team in Bridgwater, Somerset. This is an excellent opportunity for experienced social workers who are passionate about empowering adults with learning disabilities to live fulfilling, independent lives.
The role offers a competitive salary, generous annual leave, career development opportunities, and potential Skilled Worker visa sponsorship for eligible overseas applicants who are already living in the UK.
Job Summary
- Job Title: Social Worker – Learning Disabilities (Adults)
- Employer: Somerset Council
- Location: Bridgwater, Somerset, United Kingdom
- Employment Type: Full-Time
- Working Hours: 37 hours per week
- Salary: £37,280 – £41,777 per year (pending 2026/27 pay award)
- Application Deadline: 23 July 2026
- Visa Sponsorship: Available for eligible applicants already residing in the UK
- Annual Leave: 30 days
About the Role
As a Social Worker within Somerset Council’s Learning Disabilities Team, you will play a vital role in supporting adults with learning disabilities and their carers. Your work will focus on promoting independence, safeguarding vulnerable adults, encouraging community participation, and delivering person-centred care.
Working alongside health professionals, housing providers, voluntary organisations and other partner agencies, you will help individuals make informed choices while ensuring they receive the appropriate care and support they need.
This is a fantastic opportunity to work within a supportive and experienced multidisciplinary team that values collaboration, professional development, and high-quality social work practice.
Key Responsibilities
Your duties will include:
- Conduct strengths-based assessments of adults with learning disabilities.
- Complete Care Act assessments and develop personalised care plans.
- Manage a diverse caseload with varying levels of complexity.
- Carry out safeguarding investigations and risk assessments.
- Support adults and carers to access appropriate services.
- Promote independence, dignity, wellbeing and inclusion.
- Respond effectively to crisis situations.
- Work closely with healthcare professionals, housing teams and community organisations.
- Maintain accurate case records and documentation.
- Participate in multidisciplinary meetings and reviews.
Essential Requirements
Applicants should possess:
- A recognised Degree or Master’s in Social Work (or equivalent).
- Current registration with Social Work England.
- Knowledge of the Care Act 2014 and adult social care legislation.
- Excellent assessment, communication and decision-making skills.
- Experience managing risk and safeguarding adults.
- Ability to work independently and within multidisciplinary teams.
- Commitment to person-centred and strengths-based practice.
- Fluent English language skills.
- Full access to a vehicle for work purposes due to travel across Somerset.
Desirable Skills
The following will strengthen your application:
- Previous experience supporting adults with learning disabilities.
- Experience working alongside health professionals.
- Knowledge of community-based social care services.
- Supervisory or mentoring experience.
- Understanding of current government guidance relating to adult social care.
Salary and Benefits
Successful candidates will enjoy:
- Competitive annual salary from £37,280 to £41,777
- Annual salary progression
- 30 days paid annual leave
- Excellent pension scheme
- Ongoing professional development and training
- Supportive and experienced management team
- Collaborative multidisciplinary working environment
- Career progression opportunities within Somerset Council
- Potential Skilled Worker visa sponsorship for eligible candidates
Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship
Somerset Council may offer Skilled Worker visa sponsorship to suitably qualified overseas social workers who:
- Are currently living in the United Kingdom.
- Hold a recognised Social Work qualification.
- Are registered with Social Work England.
- Meet UK Skilled Worker visa eligibility requirements.
Please note that relocation or resettlement support is not provided.
Why Choose Somerset Council?
Somerset Council is committed to delivering outstanding adult social care services through compassionate, person-centred practice. Employees benefit from a positive working culture where professional judgement, continuous learning and teamwork are highly valued.
By joining the Learning Disabilities Team, you’ll have the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with service users, improve lives, and make a genuine difference within local communities.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their applications before 23 July 2026. Early applications are encouraged as the vacancy may close once sufficient applications have been received.