Chronic hoarding, clinically recognised as hoarding disorder, is increasingly identified across UK social care as a complex issue involving mental health, self neglect, and environmental risk. Effective social work intervention is essential to safeguard individuals while respecting their autonomy and dignity.

For professionals working in social work and mental health, including those exploring social worker agency work, understanding how hoarding disorder presents – and how to respond appropriately – is now a core skill within adult safeguarding practice.

While many people collect meaningful items such as books, antiques, or memorabilia, hoarding disorder is characterised by a persistent difficulty discarding possessions, regardless of their actual value. This behaviour can significantly impair daily functioning and create serious safety risks.

Hoarding is the persistent accumulation of items and the inability to discard them, to the extent that they obstruct living spaces and daily activities.

Research suggests hoarding disorder affects approximately 2–6% of adults and is often associated with:

• Mental health conditions such as depression, OCD, anxiety, or psychosis
• Cognitive impairment, including dementia or learning disabilities
• Trauma, bereavement, or social isolation
• Physical limitations that make cleaning or sorting difficult

When hoarding becomes severe, clutter can overwhelm living spaces, obstruct exits, increase fire risk, and pose serious public health concerns – making risk assessment and multi agency safeguarding essential.

The Role of Social Workers in Hoarding Disorder Intervention and Safeguarding

Social workers play a central role in supporting individuals affected by hoarding disorder, leading on assessment, safeguarding, and long-term planning. This work reflects the professional standards – or code of ethics – of a social worker, which prioritises dignity, empowerment, proportionality, and protection from harm.

Holistic Risk Assessment in Hoarding Disorder and Self Neglect

A robust risk assessment is often the first step in effective intervention. Social workers assess:

• Environmental hazards (fire risk, infestation, structural safety)
• Mental health needs and capacity
• Physical health and mobility
• Risks linked to self neglect
• The impact on neighbours, family members, or carers

In many cases, mental health support worker job duties and mental health support worker responsibilities overlap with social work functions. Support workers may assist with daily routines, emotional support, and engagement, while social workers retain responsibility for safeguarding decisions, statutory processes, and legal frameworks.

Building Trust Through Ethical Social Work Practice

Hoarding is deeply emotional and often linked to trauma or loss. Successful social work intervention relies on building trust through:

• Trauma-informed practice
• Motivational interviewing
• Non-judgemental communication
• Collaborative goal-setting

One practitioner explained:

“We agreed that during each visit, we would choose five old magazines to remove. It’s slow progress, but breaking objectives into manageable tasks is far more effective.”

This approach aligns closely with ethical social work practice and helps prevent disengagement.

Case Study: Multi Agency Safeguarding in Practice

This case study demonstrates multi agency safeguarding in action.

When Mr Ahmed’s housing officer raised concerns about blocked exits and strong odours from his flat, a referral was made to adult social care. The allocated social worker coordinated a multi agency meeting involving mental health services, the fire and rescue service, environmental health, and the housing provider.

The fire service identified a high fire risk caused by newspapers stacked against heaters. Mental health professionals assessed that Mr Ahmed was experiencing severe depression following bereavement, contributing to the hoarding behaviour.

A joint safety plan was agreed:

• Smoke alarms were installed
• Temporary storage was arranged
• Weekly mental health support was put in place

The social worker acted as lead professional, ensuring all agencies remained aligned. Over time, Mr Ahmed’s living environment became safer, and his engagement with services improved.

Social Work Intervention and Practical Decluttering Support

Effective intervention focuses on working with, not against, the individual. Social workers often support access to:

• Specialist hoarding charities
• Community cleaning teams
• Professional organisers
• Local authority decluttering support services

The goal is sustainable change rather than forced clearance, which can be re-traumatising and ineffective.

Case Study: Practical Decluttering Support in Action

Ms Taylor lived alone and had gradually filled her home with clothes, craft supplies, and unopened parcels. She felt overwhelmed and avoided letting anyone inside.

Her social worker focused first on building trust and understanding the emotional meaning behind her belongings. Together, they agreed on a single achievable goal: clearing one kitchen surface so she could prepare meals safely.

Weekly visits from a local hoarding support charity helped Ms Taylor sort items into “keep”, “donate”, and “recycle” categories. Over three months, she regained safe use of her kitchen and living room, with ongoing support to prevent relapse.

Strengthening Support Networks and Long-Term Monitoring

Social workers help individuals reconnect with family, friends, neighbours, and peer support groups to reduce isolation and build resilience. Because hoarding disorder rarely resolves quickly, long-term monitoring, regular reviews, and continued multi agency coordination are often required.

Why Hoarding Disorder Experience Matters in UK Social Care and Agency Work

For professionals considering social worker agency work or roles through social worker recruitment agencies, experience of hoarding disorder is increasingly valuable. Many local authorities now prioritise hoarding and self neglect within adult safeguarding frameworks, creating strong demand for skilled practitioners across UK social care.

Work With Pertemps Social Care

Pertemps Social Care works in partnership with local authorities across the UK to recruit:

• Qualified social workers
• Mental health social workers
• Support workers
• Practitioners specialising in hoarding disorder, self neglect, and complex needs

If you’re exploring your next opportunity or want to progress your career in social work and mental health, speak to our specialist recruitment team today.

For many newly qualified professionals, social media is a place to switch off. For Lashonté Royal, it’s become something more – a space to reflect, connect, and inspire others who share her passion for social work.

Lashonté’s Instagram account, @Dearsocialworker_, began during her second year at university as a place to document her progress and share insights. Today, it’s a growing online community where students, early-career practitioners, and experienced professionals come together to share insights, encouragement, and lived experiences from across the profession.

A personal space that became a public platform

“I started my page on the first day of my social work placement,” says Lashonté. “At the time, not many people were doing that. I wanted to document my learning, mistakes, and growth as a person and professional.”

What began as a reflective diary soon evolved into something bigger. Her openness and authenticity struck a chord with others, and the page steadily grew into a trusted, positive space for aspiring and qualified social workers alike.

It’s so difficult to connect with other young social workers and have the opportunity to ask questions, so I wanted to create that space.

“I wanted to share tips, things I’ve learned, books I think are helpful – and most of all, create a network. It’s so difficult to connect with other young social workers and have the opportunity to ask questions, so I wanted to create that space.”

It’s also a space that reflects her commitment to professionalism. Despite her online presence, Lashonté remains careful never to share details about her employer or the people she works with. “I’m very aware of confidentiality,” she says. “The focus is always on reflection and learning – never on cases.”

Challenging stereotypes, celebrating the profession

Through @Dearsocialworker_, Lashonté has built a community that doesn’t shy away from the realities of social work, but always leads with empathy, encouragement, and positivity.

Her posts often explore what it means to be a young practitioner in a demanding field – finding balance, managing emotions, celebrating small wins, and remembering why she chose this profession in the first place.

I hope my page breaks some of the stigmas and stereotypes people have about social workers.

“I hope my page breaks some of the stigmas and stereotypes people have about social workers,” she explains. “There’s so much good happening in this profession – but it doesn’t always get seen. I want to show the human side, the joy, the learning, the growth.”

By sharing her reflections so honestly, she’s become a role model for other young practitioners who might be feeling uncertain about their place in the profession.

The power of relatability

As a young practitioner herself, Lashonté believes that relatability is one of her greatest strengths.

“It’s rewarding when I can support young people and help them become the best version of themselves. Sometimes they just need a little encouragement. I love hearing about their lived experience and what’s important to them – it’s always about relationships.”

That same authenticity is what makes her online presence resonate. It’s not about polished success stories, but about growth, honesty, and connection. Her content is both uplifting and real – reminding others that being a social worker means learning as you go, leaning on your team, and staying true to your purpose.

Creating community – and inspiring the next generation

In a profession that can sometimes feel isolating, especially early on, platforms like @Dearsocialworker_ play an important role in building connection and reducing stigma.

Lashonté’s page has become a supportive hub for aspiring social workers, students preparing for their placements, and those completing their ASYE year – people who might otherwise struggle to find community and reassurance.

Her journey shows that when social workers share their experiences, they not only empower others but also strengthen the profession itself.

A profession built on connection

At Pertemps Social Care, we understand that connection and community are at the heart of great social work. Lashonté’s story – from student to award-winning practitioner and online community-builder – reflects the very best of the profession: empathy, resilience, reflection, and purpose.

By celebrating stories like hers, we hope to inspire others to take pride in their journey, share their learning, and know they’re not alone.

Lashonté’s example shows us that every voice matters – and when social workers support one another, the whole community grows stronger.

The first year in practice can be one of the most transformative stages in a social worker’s career. It’s a time of steep learning, professional growth, and self-discovery – and for Lashonté Royal, this first year has been nothing short of “phenomenal.”

Fresh from being named Newly Qualified Children’s Social Worker of the Year 2025, Lashonté took time to reflect on her Assessed and Supported Year in Employment (ASYE) – what she’s learned, the challenges she’s faced, and how she’s grown as both a practitioner and a person.

Finding her feet in frontline practice

“When I first started, I didn’t feel confident,” Lashonté admits. “I wasn’t sure what area I wanted to go into or what kind of impact I would truly make. The only thing I knew for certain was that I wanted to work with vulnerable young people and children.”

Over the course of her ASYE, she’s worked in both assessment and locality teams, completing Section 47 inquiries, initiating child protection conferences, and building relationships with children and families over time.

“I’ve dealt with more complexity, longer-term involvement, and deeper relationship building. It’s been one of growth, resilience and purpose – I’ve overcome fears, built confidence, and most importantly, witnessed the lives of young people and families transform.”

The value of good support

Lashonté is quick to acknowledge the role of good management and mentoring in her development.

“I’m so grateful to be completing my ASYE with my local authority. From day one I’ve had incredible support – from my phenomenal manager, who goes above and beyond, to my amazing colleagues, mentors, and everyone who has believed in me and encouraged me.”

She’s also been supported by a broader network through her Instagram community, @Dearsocialworker_, which she started as a student to document her progress and share insights.

That network, she says, has helped her process experiences, share learning, and feel part of a community – something that’s particularly valuable for newly qualified social workers navigating the steep learning curve of their first year.

Learning to balance passion with perspective

The realities of frontline social work can be demanding – emotionally and administratively. Lashonté is open about the challenges of managing a heavy workload and the importance of maintaining perspective.

“There have been late nights, long visits, exhaustion, and moments where I questioned myself. But even through the challenges, I wouldn’t trade this journey for anything. I’m still standing. I’m still passionate. I’m still willing to make a difference – no matter how difficult it may be.”

She adds that setting boundaries and having an understanding manager has helped her maintain a healthy work-life balance. “If things are getting out of hand, I can share that. I feel supported.”

A message for future social workers

Looking back on her ASYE, Lashonté says she wishes she had felt better prepared for the job search process – and encourages students to start early.

Don’t be discouraged by setbacks.

“Finding my ASYE role was hard. I applied to around eight local authorities and only had one interview. Practising written assessments and doing more research about what day-to-day life as a social worker is really like would have helped. It’s such a competitive process now, especially for those who have come straight through education.”

Her advice to future newly qualified social workers is simple: don’t be discouraged by setbacks.

“You may not get the first job you apply for, but the right opportunity will come. Keep learning, stay reflective, and lean on your support networks. Every experience, even the hard ones, will shape the kind of social worker you become.”

Growing into the role – and beyond

As she looks ahead, Lashonté remains passionate about supporting children and families – whether within statutory social work or elsewhere.

“I don’t know exactly where my career will take me,” she says, “but I know I want to keep working with young people and helping them become the best version of themselves. Sometimes they just need a little encouragement – someone to listen, to care, to believe in them.”

At Pertemps Social Care, we see stories like Lashonté’s every day – of committed practitioners who combine compassion, professionalism, and purpose to make a difference. Her journey reminds us why supporting, celebrating, and investing in early-career social workers matters.

Because when new social workers are nurtured, everyone benefits – families, communities, and the profession itself.

Over the past year, the Department for Education (DfE) has introduced sweeping changes to the way children’s social workers can work in agency roles.

From new experience requirements, to pay caps, to regional memorandums of understanding between local authorities, the landscape of locum work is shifting quickly.

Consistency matters – especially for children and families experiencing significant trauma or change.

I understand the motivation behind these changes. For years, local authorities have been fighting to stabilise their workforces, reduce reliance on short-term solutions, and bring down rising agency costs. Consistency matters – especially for children and families experiencing significant trauma or change. It’s hard to argue with the desire for a more settled, resilient workforce.

But as someone who speaks to social workers and employers every day, I also see the unintended consequences – particularly when it comes to the loss of choice for the very people the sector relies on.

Why so many social workers chose the locum route in the first place

Agency work wasn’t a loophole or an easy option. For many children’s social workers, it was a survival strategy.

• Locum roles offered:
• Flexibility in how and where they worked
• Greater control over their hours and work/life balance
• A chance to avoid unmanageable caseloads
• The ability to step back from organisational pressures, while still doing the work they love

In a sector where burnout is not a risk but a constant companion, these factors weren’t luxuries – they were safeguards.

The new rules, particularly the requirement for newly qualified workers to complete three years in a permanent role before ever taking a locum post, remove that safety valve. They assume a level of stability, support, and capacity in local authority teams that many workers simply haven’t experienced.

Good intentions, but difficult timing

The aim is clear: encourage permanence, discourage churn, and level out pay. But the timing is difficult.

Vacancy levels remain high. Caseloads are rising rather than falling. Many local authorities are struggling to retain experienced permanent staff, despite their best efforts.

Removing or limiting the agency option doesn’t resolve those issues – it risks magnifying them. Some social workers have told us they would prefer to leave children’s services altogether rather than be forced into a model that doesn’t reflect their needs or reality. Others are considering switching to adult services, where fewer restrictions currently apply.

Either way, the outcome is the same: fewer skilled practitioners available to support children and families who need them most.

A shrinking pool helps no one

It’s easy to frame this debate as “local authorities vs. agency workers”, but that misses the point.

The real issue is supply.

If experienced social workers step away from the profession – or never enter children’s services in the first place – the whole system feels the impact. Permanent teams carry heavier caseloads. Agency teams become harder to stand up at short notice. Workforce stability becomes more elusive, not less.

This isn’t about protecting the agency model. It’s about recognising that choice is part of what keeps good social workers in the profession, especially in high-pressure areas of practice.

Where do we go from here?

These rules are still new, and local authorities are implementing them in different ways. There’s room – perhaps even a necessity – for ongoing dialogue about how they’re working in practice.

My hope is that, as a sector, we can focus not just on restricting options, but on creating conditions that make social work careers rewarding and genuinely attractive.

This means ensuring that social workers can expect:

• manageable caseloads
• consistent supervision
• clear career pathways
• emotionally intelligent leadership
• wellbeing built into structures, not added on top

If those pieces are in place, the reliance on agency workers will naturally reduce – without the need to shut doors for those who rely on flexibility to stay in the job.

A final thought

Children’s social workers are highly skilled, deeply committed professionals. They deserve a system that values not only their labour, but also their autonomy. Removing choice may bring short-term order, but in the long term it risks pushing people away from a profession already under strain.

We all want the same thing: stable teams and better outcomes for children and families. The challenge now is to make sure the path towards that goal doesn’t unintentionally narrow the workforce we depend on.

Andrew Anastasiou is Managing Director of Pertemps Professional Recruitment (PPR).

PPR comprises six specialist brands, including Pertemps Social Care, which unite to deliver expert recruitment in the public sector, social care and education across the UK.

At Pertemps Social Care, we’re proud to champion the next generation of social workers – those who bring energy, empathy, and determination to one of society’s most vital professions.

This month, we’re thrilled to celebrate the success of Lashonté Royal, who has been named Newly Qualified Children’s Social Worker of the Year 2025.

Lashonté’s journey from student to award-winning practitioner is a powerful example of what makes social work such a meaningful and transformative career. Her story is one of resilience, reflection, and purpose – and it’s already inspiring others across the UK social work community.

A Reflective Journey Shared with Others

Lashonté began documenting her path into social work during her second year at university through her Instagram page, @dearsocialworker_, a reflective log she created on the first day of her placement.

“I wanted to document my journey from an unqualified to a qualified social worker,” she explains. “To share tips, things I’ve learned, books I’ve found helpful – and to create a network for aspiring and qualified social workers. It’s so difficult to connect with other young social workers and ask questions, so I wanted to create that space.”

What started as a personal project has grown into a thriving online community where students, newly qualified practitioners, and experienced professionals connect to support one another, break down stereotypes, and celebrate the realities of life in social work.

Resilience, Growth and Purpose

Just a year into her career, Lashonté reflects on what she describes as a “phenomenal journey” as a newly qualified social worker:

“When I started, I didn’t feel confident. I wasn’t sure what area I wanted to go into or what kind of impact I would make. The only thing I knew for certain was that I wanted to work with vulnerable young people and children.”

The only thing I knew for certain was that I wanted to work with vulnerable young people and children.

“This first year has been one of growth, resilience and purpose. I’ve overcome fears, built confidence and, most importantly, witnessed the lives of young people and families transform. It hasn’t been easy – there have been late nights, long visits, and moments of doubt – but I wouldn’t trade this journey for anything. I’m still passionate. I’m still willing to make a difference.”

Behind her success, Lashonté credits the “phenomenal support” she’s received from her manager, colleagues, and mentors, who have encouraged her to develop her skills and maintain balance in a demanding profession.

Recognition and Reflection

Winning the Newly Qualified Children’s Social Worker of the Year Award marks a major milestone in Lashonté’s early career – and a moment of reflection.

“Being named a finalist was already an incredible achievement – but to win is truly indescribable. I’m filled with gratitude and pride as I reflect on this moment and the journey that has brought me here.”

“I want to thank my team and manager for their constant support and encouragement. I also want to thank my @dearsocialworker_ community – seeing how it has grown is something I’m immensely proud of.”

For Lashonté, the award recognises both her professional achievements and her contribution to the wider UK social work community – something that makes her success particularly inspiring for others starting out in the field.

Supporting the Next Generation of Social Workers

At Pertemps Social Care, we believe stories like Lashonté’s matter. They show that with the right support, reflective practice, and a shared sense of purpose, newly qualified social workers can build fulfilling careers that make a real difference.

As a specialist social work recruitment agency, we’re proud to work with passionate professionals like Lashonté – people who embody the values of empathy, integrity, and service that underpin social work.

Ready to Develop Your Own Social Work Journey?

Whether you’re a student, a newly qualified practitioner, or an experienced professional looking for your next opportunity, Pertemps Social Care is here to support your career.

Congratulations, Lashonté – and thank you for inspiring others to follow in your footsteps.

If you’re a qualified children’s social worker looking for a role where your work truly changes lives, a position in a Duty and Permanence team offers one of the most rewarding opportunities in the profession.

And if you’re open to working in a region that combines supportive practice, progressive councils and strong community values, Merseyside is well worth exploring.

What is a Duty & Permanence Team?

Children’s social work is broad, but few roles offer the same blend of challenge, variety and impact as those in Duty and Permanence teams.

The Duty Team: Responding to Urgent Need

The Duty (or “front door”) team is often where safeguarding begins. When a concern or referral is made about a child, Duty social workers are the first to assess the situation, identify risks, and determine what level of intervention is needed under the Children Act 1989.

You’ll be:

• Conducting statutory assessments and Section 47 enquiries.
• Liaising with partner agencies such as police, health and education.
• Preparing and presenting information for child protection conferences.
• Making rapid but considered decisions to keep children safe.

It’s fast-paced, challenging work.

It’s fast-paced, challenging work that demands excellent judgement, communication and resilience – but it also brings immense professional satisfaction. You see the difference you make, often immediately.

The Permanence Team: Building Stability for the Future

Once urgent risks are addressed and children enter the care system, Permanence teams step in to secure long-term stability, belonging and emotional security.

You’ll work with children, carers, adopters and families to:

• Develop and review care plans that promote lasting relationships.
• Prepare court reports and attend hearings.
• Monitor progress and advocate for each child’s voice, education and wellbeing.
• Help children maintain a sense of identity and continuity.

This is where long-term, relationship-based practice thrives. You’ll follow children’s journeys over time and witness their growth and progress – an incredibly fulfilling part of the role.

Make a Visible Difference

From crisis response to long-term planning, you’ll be there for the most critical moments in a child’s life. Few roles offer the same chance to see tangible, positive outcomes.

Variety and Professional Challenge

You’ll use every aspect of your training – from risk assessment and report writing to court work and multi-agency collaboration. Every day is different, and every decision matters.

Support and Supervision

Authorities across Merseyside are committed to manageable caseloads, reflective supervision and peer learning. You’ll be part of a team culture that understands the importance of support and balance.

Hybrid Flexibility

Many roles now offer hybrid working, allowing you to combine time at home for report writing with in-person visits and team meetings – a healthy, flexible balance that benefits you and the families you support.

Continuous Professional Development

With access to mentoring, CPD budgets and clear career pathways, you’ll have every opportunity to grow your skills and progress your career.

Why Merseyside?

While the real story here is the work itself, Merseyside provides an exceptional environment in which to do it.

The region’s five local authorities – Liverpool, Wirral, Knowsley, Sefton and St Helens – share a strong commitment to improving outcomes for children and families. Their focus on collaboration and innovation has helped to build stable, well-resourced children’s services teams that value their social workers.

Professionally, you can expect:

• Competitive pay (around £40 per hour).
• 36-hour weeks and hybrid working options.
• Strong local networks across health, education and family support.

Personally, you’ll be working in one of the UK’s most characterful regions – a place known for its warmth, resilience and community spirit.

Why Pertemps Social Care?

At Pertemps Social Care, we connect skilled, passionate social workers with roles that match their values and career goals.

We offer:

• A simple, streamlined registration process.
• Weekly payroll and dedicated consultant support.
• Exclusive access to vacancies across the UK.
• Referral bonuses and incentives when you recommend colleagues.

We’ll help you find the right fit – so you can focus on what matters most: protecting, supporting and empowering children and families.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re ready for a role that blends challenge, purpose and reward, this is your opportunity. Join a Duty and Permanence team in Merseyside and make a lasting impact – one child at a time.

In our experience, social workers are naturally reflective professionals. You’re committed to your work and constantly asking questions about your practice, your impact, and your wellbeing.

That’s why Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is such an integral part of social work – and why Social Work England places so much emphasis on it. Good learning develops critical thinking, boosts confidence, and creates opportunities for growth across the profession.

Often, its greatest value lies in the protected time it gives you to pause and think, rather than simply carry on doing.

CPD and Re-registration: What’s Required in 2025

As part of your Social Work England registration renewal, every practising social worker must record at least two pieces of CPD through their online account before 30 November 2025.

One of those CPD entries must include a peer reflection — a record of what you have learned from discussing your practice or development with another registered social worker.

This isn’t just a tick-box exercise. Peer reflection is an important space for sharing experiences, exploring challenges, and supporting each other’s wellbeing.

Social Work England recognises that reflection and peer support are essential to high-quality, ethical practice – not an administrative chore.

What Counts as CPD?

Social work offers a broad range of learning opportunities, from formal training and academic courses to informal, day-to-day experiences.

Social Work England welcomes a wide variety of examples, such as:

• A productive team meeting or case discussion that challenged your thinking
• A useful podcast, webinar, or journal article
• Learning from service users, carers, or colleagues
• Reflecting on how you handled a complex situation at work

If you can demonstrate that you’ve learned something that has developed your practice, it counts as CPD.

Making It Manageable

Few social workers welcome another online form – but CPD isn’t about bureaucracy. It’s about staying connected to your professional purpose.

Allocating time for CPD throughout the year helps keep it meaningful and manageable. Writing up your reflections while they’re still fresh makes the process easier – and more authentic.

Tip: Set aside a short block of time each month to note what you’ve learned. It’s far easier than trying to recall a year’s worth of insight in one sitting.

The Practicalities

Social Work England has continued to refine its online CPD recording system, including:

• A draft-save function so you can pause and return to your work
• Step-by-step guidance and technical support via their website
• Ongoing improvements to make the platform more reliable and user-friendly

If you’re unsure where to start, you’ll find helpful advice in the “How to record CPD” section of the Social Work England website.

Our Advice

• Don’t leave it to the last minute – your re-registration deadline is 30 November 2025
• You must Include at least one CPD record with a peer reflection
• Use Google Chrome for a smoother online experience
• Keep entries concise – exceeding word limits can cause submission issues
• Anonymise your entries and avoid including identifiable information
• Remember to hit “Submit CPD” once your record is complete

Here to Support You

At Pertemps Social Care, we work alongside hundreds of registered social workers every year. We understand the demands of the profession – and the importance of protected time for reflection.

If you’re unsure about the re-registration process or how to record your CPD, speak to your Pertemps consultant. We’re here to help you stay compliant, supported, and confident in your professional journey.

The demand for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) professionals has grown significantly in recent years, reflecting the vital role these individuals play in supporting some of the most vulnerable members of our communities.

SEND professionals are not only in high demand – they are essential.

The figures tell the story. As of early 2024, more than 1.6 million pupils in England have been identified as having special educational needs. This represents a sharp increase from previous years and highlights an ongoing trend that is unlikely to slow down. Behind these numbers are real children, families and communities who depend on skilled professionals to provide the tailored support they need to thrive.

What Do We Mean by SEND?

SEND is a wide-ranging term that encompasses conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia and more. People with SEND often require personalised support to fully access education and enjoy fulfilling lives. Local authority SEND teams play a crucial role in providing that support and ensuring statutory responsibilities are met.

Exploring Local Authority SEND Careers

SEND careers within local authorities are diverse and impactful. Professionals may be working with nurseries to support children with emerging needs, within Inclusion Services to help young people re-engage with mainstream education, or in SEN Assessment Teams guiding families through the Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan process. Many also work in adult services, supporting lifelong learning and greater independence.

What Makes a Great SEND Professional?

Successful SEND professionals combine empathy, resilience and a strong understanding of the statutory framework. Local authorities have clear legal responsibilities to provide for individuals with SEND, making these roles both secure and structured.

But beyond compliance, it is the ability to build trust with families, collaborate effectively with schools and providers, and respond flexibly to changing needs that defines excellence in the field. The most effective professionals are those who are passionate about inclusion and motivated by a genuine desire to make a difference.

How Pertemps Supports the SEND Sector

Pertemps is committed to supporting the SEND workforce and the local authorities who rely on them. We understand the unique demands of the sector and work in partnership with services across the UK to provide thoughtful, responsive solutions that address critical workforce gaps quickly and effectively.

For employers, we offer more than recruitment – we provide insight, support and a trusted relationship designed to deliver sustainable results. For candidates, we offer guidance, practical advice and access to roles that align with their skills, values and career aspirations.

As the SEND landscape continues to evolve, the need for dedicated professionals has never been greater. Pertemps is committed to supporting both employers and professionals in this vital sector, helping to create positive outcomes for children, young people, adults and their families.

There’s a well-known paradox at the heart of health and care for older people. Hospital treatment is often costly and, for many older patients, can lead to worse outcomes over time – loss of independence, physical decline, and emotional stress.

Yet despite this knowledge, a significant proportion of public health funding continues to funnel into acute care rather than into the community-based support that could help people stay well and independent in the first place.

Imbalance

The challenge is clear. Shifting care from hospitals to the community sounds straightforward on paper, but it’s far harder to achieve in practice. One major reason is the imbalance in prioritisation: adult social care often sits in the shadow of the NHS, despite being a vital part of the system. Without putting social care on equal footing – particularly at the neighbourhood level – efforts to reduce reliance on hospital-based care are unlikely to stick.

Deep Experience

What’s often overlooked is that local authorities and social care teams already have deep experience in supporting people where they live. Their involvement in shaping how health and care resources are spent is not just a nice-to-have – it’s essential. Councils are better placed than hospitals to understand local needs, build relationships with residents, and coordinate care that is practical, preventative, and person-centred.

Take Somerset’s Independent Living Centres, for example. These centres offer free advice and hands-on support to people who need help living independently. A Social Care Occupational Therapy-led team works with individuals to identify what kind of equipment or support might make daily life easier. That could be as simple as a bath board or walking frame, or as high-tech as telecare devices that monitor health conditions or alert carers in an emergency.

Crisis Prevention

These kinds of interventions don’t just improve quality of life – they prevent crises. A well-timed handrail or stairlift can mean the difference between someone staying in their own home or ending up in hospital after a fall. This approach is more sustainable for the system and more dignified for the individual.

Somerset is not alone. Across the country, similar initiatives are taking root. In Leeds, the city’s Neighbourhood Teams bring together nurses, therapists, and social workers to support older people at home, reducing unnecessary hospital admissions. In Wigan, the Deal for Adult Social Care and Health emphasises working with residents rather than doing things to or for them – resulting in more independence and better outcomes. In Scotland, technology-enabled care services are being expanded to help people manage long-term conditions without leaving their homes.

These programmes all share one thing in common: they invest in community-based care and recognise that independence, not dependence, should be the goal.

Moving forward, it’s vital that adult social care leaders are not just consulted but actively involved in the decisions that shape neighbourhood health and care. We can’t afford to treat social care as an afterthought when it is so often the first line of defence.

Catch 22

The ‘catch 22’ is real – but it’s not unsolvable. By supporting local initiatives and giving social care a stronger voice, we can create a system that works better for older people, keeps them safe and well in their own homes, and makes smarter use of public resources. It’s not just about reducing pressure on hospitals – it’s about giving people the chance to live the lives they choose, with the right support in the right place at the right time.

Last week, we were lucky to welcome a bright and ambitious work experience student to our London office. From day one, Kaylen brought enthusiasm, curiosity, and a thoughtful approach to the world of recruitment.

Here’s what he had to say about his time with us – and the aspirations driving him forward.

Dreaming Big: A Future in Law

When we asked Kaylen about his dream job, his answer was clear: “Lawyer.” Why? “Because I enjoy helping people in need, and I like voicing my opinions in a discussion to prove my point.” It’s clear Kaylen has a strong sense of justice and isn’t afraid to speak up – two qualities that will take him far, wherever he ends up.

Top of the Class

Kaylen is currently enjoying his studies, with English, Business, and Sociology among his favourites. This trio of subjects reflects both analytical thinking and a deep interest in how people, systems, and language interact – ideal for someone interested in a future in law or professional services.

Life Outside the Classroom

When he’s not studying or gaining work experience, Kaylen enjoys playing football, catching up on TV shows and movies, and spending time with friends. He describes himself as more of a homebody but still enjoys getting out and socialising from time to time – striking a nice balance between downtime and connection.

A Week in the World of Recruitment

During his week with us at Pertemps, Kaylen got stuck into a wide variety of tasks, learning fast and adapting quickly. From creating and posting job adverts online, to messaging potential candidates, he got a real taste of what it’s like behind the scenes in recruitment.

Kaylen also helped with payroll admin, confirming hours worked and chasing up any outstanding details. One of the highlights? Getting the chance to listen in on real phone calls between our recruiter, Freya, and her candidates. “It gave me an understanding of how conversations flow between a recruiter and a job candidate – it was nice to see that in person.”

Skills Gained and Lessons Learned

Over the course of the week, Kaylen developed several key skills: patience, professionalism, and the ability to adapt to conversations with new people. He also got hands-on with admin tasks and digital tools – gaining confidence with systems and processes essential to a recruitment office.

Waiting for replies is a big part of recruitment, and this experience taught me that things can take time.

Looking Ahead

Reflecting on the experience, Kaylen said:
“I would definitely look into recruitment more in the future as a potential career. I enjoyed the flexibility within the job and seeing how everyone in the office works together and socialises – it creates strong friendships.”

Final thoughts?

“Overall, the experience has been amazing, and I would love to work here in the future. I’m thankful for the opportunity.”

We’re grateful to have hosted such a motivated and thoughtful student for the week – and who knows? Maybe we’ll see him back here at Pertemps one day. It’s early days for Kaylen, but whatever path he takes, we wish him every success.