Senior Social Worker - Forensic

Are you a Senior Social Worker with forensic experience looking for a rewarding locum opportunity in Reading?
We have a fantastic part-time opportunity available offering excellent pay, a supportive working environment, and even free meals on site!

• Job Title: Senior Social Worker - Forensic Inpatient Service

• Location: Reading area

• Duration: 3-month ongoing contract

• Schedule: Wednesday to Thursday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Part-time)

• Start Date: ASAP

• End Date: TBC

• Rate of Pay: £40.00 per hour

• Contact: Hannah Chapman - /

In this role, you'll join a specialist forensic inpatient service, supporting service users detained under the Mental Health Act. You will:

• Provide specialist social work input for patients with complex forensic histories

• Deliver safeguarding assessments and manage risk in collaboration with the MDT

• Liaise with external agencies including MAPPA, social services, and criminal justice partners

• Support patients with discharge planning, leave arrangements, and family liaison

• Ensure accurate and timely completion of statutory documentation and care plans

• Work in line with the Care Act, Mental Health Act, and relevant safeguarding legislation

With free meals on site and a strong MDT around you, this is a great opportunity to bring your experience into a highly supportive and structured environment.

• Current and valid Social Work England registration

• Experience working within forensic inpatient settings

• Strong working knowledge of the Mental Health Act and safeguarding procedures

• Must have valid MAPA (or equivalent PMVA) training

• Excellent communication, organisational, and risk management skills

This role is part-time, working Wednesdays and Thursdays, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, with the initial contract lasting 3 months ongoing, and a strong likelihood of extension depending on service needs.

Contact Hannah Chapman today on or email to apply or discuss the role in more detail.

Hunter Gatherer is a specialist UK recruitment agency connecting mental health professionals to exceptional locum and permanent roles across the NHS and private sector.

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