Christine Jones, Service Manager

I am proud to say that I have worked for Southwark for 42 years, time flies by fast when you are busy and enjoy where you are working! 

When I started working as an Assistant Practitioner I was seconded to start my Social Work training by Southwark (similar to an apprenticeship).

I started my career in a generic team working with Children’s services, but soon realised my passion for working with Adults so when I qualified as a social worker I moved across to working with older person’s and physical disabilities.  I progressed onto – senior practitioner, then team manager and eventually Service Manager.  I have now reverted to 3 days a week as part of flexible retirement.

I have always liked working with people. Southwark has been a caring authority, and staff are valued here. The managers I have worked with have been flexible and supported my parental and caring responsibilities and there has always  been opportunities to learn and progress.

I really value the diversity in Southwark, and Southwark Stands Together (SST), supports the  representation of Black Asian and other Minority Ethnic staff groups at management levels.

I am motivated by seeing the next generation develop via our Social Work and Occupational Therapy apprenticeships.  It’s so rewarding watching people who started as Social Worker growing in experience and moving into deputy team managers.

When I am undertaking recruitment I always try to think, when I am interviewing, what it is like sitting the other side of the table. I like to have more of a conversion with somebody to get the best out of them. It’s really important that you give people the opportunity to flourish.

Service Manager – Older Person’s and Physical Disability – Community

Diploma in Social Work

Certificate in Business Management

We are looking for people with a ‘can-do’ attitude. We want to work with people who are passionate about the role, and their development with the initiative to develop and those that are keen to develop further in our teams.  Southwark is eager to commit and invest in their staff and this is a genuine unique selling point for the borough.