Laura Clarke

Laura is a highly experienced social worker with extensive expertise in supporting children, young people, and adults. Throughout her career in local authority settings, she has specialised in complex case management, safeguarding, and advocacy. She is also trained as a Best Interests DOLS Assessor and as an IMCA (Independent Mental Capacity Advocate).

Laura’s work within the field of mental capacity sparked a strong professional interest in brain injury, leading her to practise as an independent social worker in this area.

She prioritises building trusted, meaningful relationships with her clients and their families, taking time to understand their experiences and what matters most to them. Believing firmly in a holistic approach, Laura focuses on clients’ strengths, goals, and personal aspirations.

As a case manager, she conducts comprehensive assessments and provides clear, informed recommendations to support individuals in navigating life after injury. Laura brings a wealth of knowledge, practical insight, and genuine compassion to every case, ensuring clients receive tailored, effective, and empowering support.

• Acquired Brain Injury
• Behaviours that challenge
• Client Support Through CHC Process
• Complex Care
• Extensive statutory services knowledge
• Leading Multi-disciplinary Team
• Managing Care Teams
• Mental Capacity Assessment
• Transition to Adulthood

• BA (Hons) Social Work
• Registered Practitioner, British Association of Brain Injury and Complex Case Management (BABICM)
• Social Work England (SWE)

April 2024 – Present

Locum Social Worker – Adult Social Work Team

• Undertake mental capacity assessments and contribute to Section 21A challenges
• Complete community DoLS applications and best interest decisions
• Lead on self‑neglect pathways and safeguarding interventions
• Carry out assessments, reviews, and care planning for adults with complex needs
• Provide case management and coordinate multi‑agency input
• Chair meetings to ensure effective communication and decision‑making

July 2023 – Present

Independent Social Worker – Advanced Social Work Consultancy Ltd

• Conduct mental capacity and best interest assessments, including for individuals with TBI
• Provide advocacy and paid RPR services
• Deliver care needs assessments and care planning for adults with complex needs
• Support social work students as Practice Educator

2019 – 2023

Senior Practitioner / Practice Advisor – Kent County Council, Adult Social Care & Health 

• Completed regular Best Interest Assessments under DoLS
• Facilitated practice development workshops on legislation, resilience, equality, and safeguarding
• Assessed and supported NQSWs and social work students
• Provided consultation and reflective supervision on complex cases

2017 – 2019

Senior Practitioner – Kent County Council, Lifespan Pathway Disabled Young Persons Team (16–25)

• Managed complex caseloads including young people with acquired brain injury
• Delivered care planning, safeguarding, and transition support to adult services
• Supervised social workers and assistants, promoting reflective practice

Laura is committed to maintaining her skills and abilities and engages readily in varied training supported by ILS Case Management which includes the following areas:

• Capacity and Consent
• Safeguarding Training for Children  & Adults
• Recruitment and Employment
• Litigation
• Management of Risk
• Moving and Handling
• GDPR