If you’re a qualified adult social worker considering agency work, you’ll already know about the core teams within most local authorities – safeguarding/front door, mental health, review and CHC teams, hospital discharge, learning disability, community or neighbourhood teams, and services for older people or those with physical disabilities.

But what you may not realise is that, when you work with the right agency, there’s the potential to access even more diverse and impactful opportunities – including the chance to join one of our specialist teams.

What is a Project Team in Adult Social Care?

These teams are often formed to tackle a specific area of need within a local authority, such as continuing healthcare reviews. These short- to medium-term teams play a vital role in ensuring that service users are receiving the right support, at the right level, and at the right time.

They often sit outside of ‘business as usual’ structures and are commissioned to deliver targeted outcomes within set timeframes. That means work is focused, purposeful, and often more flexible in structure than traditional team settings.

“By working collaboratively and staying focused on key objectives, we were able support the provider and save significant public money – all while preserving a complex care package that truly meets the service user’s needs.”

Why Do Social Workers Enjoy Project Work?

Locum social workers who have worked in specialist teams through Pertemps tell us that they enjoy the ability to concentrate on a particular type of work, without the distraction of an overloaded caseload. There’s a real sense of achievement in seeing measurable progress – whether that’s improving the quality of life for service users, helping local authorities make best use of their resources, or both.

Project roles also tend to offer greater autonomy, clear goals, and supportive management focused on delivery rather than bureaucracy. If you’re a social worker who thrives on getting things done, these environments can be a fantastic fit.

What Skills Do You Need?

We typically place experienced adult social workers into these roles – professionals who are confident in their practice, and comfortable working at pace. A background in reviewing or reassessing packages of care is a plus, but not essential.
You’ll need strong communication skills, an understanding of strengths-based practice, and the ability to produce clear and timely documentation. Project Teams often involve direct liaison with providers and families, so being solution-focused and collaborative is key.

How We Support Our Locums

At Pertemps, we work closely with local authorities to shape and staff these specialist teams. Because of that, we’re often first to know when a new project is launching – and we’re trusted to match them with the right locum professionals.

Our consultants will always take time to understand your preferences and strengths before recommending a project role, and we’ll support you throughout the assignment with regular check-ins, prompt payments, and honest advice.

One of our locum social workers recently said: “Working in a project team has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my locum career. The focus on reviewing care packages meant I could really make a difference — not just ticking boxes, but ensuring people received the right level of support for their needs. The pace was fast, but the expectations were clear, and I felt part of a team that was genuinely driving positive change. It’s been refreshing to work in such a focused and purposeful way.”

Interested in finding out more?

We’re currently working with several local authorities across the UK who are running adult social care project teams. If you’re an experienced locum looking for something a little different – or a permanent social worker curious about trying agency work – we’d love to chat.

Graham Leatham is a Senior Manager at Pertemps Social Care. He can be reached on 07484 513909 or by email: Graham.Leatham@pprsocialcare.co.uk