At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and innovate services for adults with mental health needs and learning disabilities.
- Company: Dynamic organisation focused on improving adult social care in the West Midlands.
- Benefits: Competitive hourly rate, hybrid working, and support for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to continuous improvement and community impact.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable adults while shaping service delivery.
- Qualifications: Degree in social work or related field; experience in adult social care leadership required.
6-month interim assignment
West Midlands (Hybrid/remote with some on-site presence)
£40.84-44.15 per hour Inside IR35 (via umbrella)
Start date: 20th September 2026
CVs submission to the client within 48 hours
Role overview
Reporting to the Director of Adult Social Care Operations, you will lead the strategic design and operational delivery of specialist services for adults with learning disabilities and complex mental health needs. You will shape the service model, drive continuous improvement and ensure statutory duties are met across assessment, care management and specialist provision. You will manage significant service budgets, promote commercial thinking to deliver public value, and support strategic workstreams delegated by the Chief Executive and Executive Director.
Your role as Head of Service – Adult Mental Health:
- Lead the strategic development and oversight of specialist Adult Social Care services, including learning disability and mental health pathways.
- Partner with Children’s Services, NHS trusts and health partners to deliver integrated community and hospital-based support for vulnerable adults.
- Design and implement operational systems that ensure compliance with statutory duties and national policy.
- Lead on Department of Health transformation priorities and cross-cutting Adult Social Care responsibilities.
- Oversee assessment and care management functions within specialist learning disability and mental health services.
- Provide clear leadership and accountability for service performance, quality and continuous improvement.
- Take strategic and operational responsibility for service delivery, workforce and resource management.
Your Previous Experience as Head of Service – Adult Mental Health:
- Degree-level qualification (or equivalent) in social work, health or a related field.
- Proven track record as a Head of Service (or equivalent) within Adult Social Care, with substantial experience in learning disability and/or specialist mental health services.
- Strong operational leadership in a local authority setting, including managing complex, high-pressure services.
- Demonstrated ability to lead service redesign, transformation and continuous improvement.
- Experience of multi-agency working with health, children’s services and partner agencies.
- Strong report-writing, governance and performance-management skills.
- In-depth knowledge of Adult Social Care legislation, policy and statutory duties.
- Experience of managing significant service budgets and resources.
- Willingness to travel across the region as required.
If you’re interested in discussing this opportunity in more detail or know someone who this may be of interest to, please contact Elivia Atkinson on (phone number removed) or apply today.
(We offer a senior referral scheme upon successful placement of your recommendation so please do get in contact)
Our clients are passionate about creating and evolving a diverse workforce and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant. Recruiting decisions are based on your experience and skills. Any reasonable adjustments in the workplace will be fully supported during the application and hiring process.
Head of Service Adult Mental Health & LD in Marston employer: Baltimore Consulting Limited
As an employer, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that values the contributions of every team member. Located in Nottingham City, our hybrid working model allows for flexibility while ensuring that you are part of a dedicated team focused on making a meaningful impact in the education sector. We offer ample opportunities for professional growth and development, empowering you to enhance your analytical skills while contributing to vital local SEND reforms.
Contact Details:
Baltimore Consulting Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Service Adult Mental Health & LD in Marston
✨Get Involved in Local Community Projects
One of the best ways to land a temporary role in social work is to dive headfirst into local community projects. Volunteer your time or skills at local charities or community centres to not only gain experience but also to connect with professionals in the field. They might just have some insider knowledge on temporary positions that pop up!
✨Engage with Social Work Networks
Join online forums and social media groups specifically for social workers. Platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn have dedicated groups where professionals share temporary job opportunities. Being an active member can help you stay in the loop and even get recommendations from those already in the field.
✨Attend Workshops and Seminars
Keep an eye out for workshops, seminars, or conferences related to social work in your area. These events aren't just great for learning; they're also hotbeds for networking! You never know who might be hiring or can point you towards a temporary position while you're soaking up new skills.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website!
When you spot a role that piques your interest, especially for a temporary position, make sure to apply directly through our website! This not only shows your commitment to Baltimore Consulting Limited, but also gives you an edge by putting your application right in front of the hiring team. Let’s get you moving on that path to your next opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Service Adult Mental Health & LD in Marston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let's highlight why you're passionate about social work and how your values align with those of Baltimore Consulting Limited. Share specific experiences where you made a difference, as this field thrives on genuine motivation and connection.
Demonstrate Relevant Experience:When listing your experience, focus on any internships, volunteer roles, or temporary positions you've had in social work or related fields. Those skills are gold! Think about situations where you helped individuals or communities, and don't forget to mention any relevant certifications, like safeguarding or mental health first aid.
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Remember, for a temporary role, hiring managers want to see how you fit in and can hit the ground running. Keep your CV clear and to the point, showcasing only the experience that really matters for the role at Baltimore Consulting Limited. We recommend a two-page limit – make every word count!
Emphasise Flexibility and Adaptability:Considering this is a temporary position, it's vital to show you can adapt to new environments quickly. In your application, highlight any past experiences where you had to adjust to different teams or roles smoothly. This shows you understand the nature of temporary work and are ready for the challenge!
How to prepare for a job interview at Baltimore Consulting Limited
✨Sharpen Your Empathy Skills
In social work, it's all about understanding and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Make sure to prepare some examples from your experience where you've demonstrated empathy and resilience. Practising active listening techniques can help you articulate your approach during the interview with Baltimore Consulting Limited.
✨Know Your Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with key social work theories and frameworks, like the ecological systems theory or person-centred approaches. These concepts might pop up during your interview for the temporary Head of Service Adult Mental Health & LD role at Baltimore Consulting Limited, so it's good to have a couple of insights ready to share.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
Since this is a temporary position, showcasing your flexibility is key. Be prepared to discuss past experiences where you quickly adapted to new environments or changing client needs, which is crucial in the dynamic world of social work.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions that test your decision-making skills and ethical judgement. Think about how you would handle specific challenges you might face in the field. Having a clear structure for your answers will show Baltimore Consulting Limited that you can think critically and act effectively under pressure.
