At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage high-quality social work practice to support children and families.
- Company: Join Bedford Borough Council’s passionate Children's Services team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive culture, and impactful work environment.
- Other info: Inclusive team atmosphere where every voice matters.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families.
- Qualifications: Qualified Social Worker with strategic management experience.
The predicted salary is between 64868 - 72562 £ per year.
It’s an exciting time to join Bedford Borough Council’s Children's Services. We want every child in Bedford Borough to be safe and to achieve their potential. We support families in this aim and where necessary act as a Corporate Parent to promote good outcomes for the more vulnerable children and young people from birth through to their 25th birthday.
We believe that every family can be supported through evidenced-based approaches to build on their own strengths so they can support themselves. We aim to achieve this by providing access to high-quality, evidenced-based interventions which ensure all children, young people and their families get the right support and action at the right time.
We’re a friendly, supportive, passionate team. Our commitment to creating positive outcomes is second to none, our young people actively help shape the service. What truly sets us apart is our inclusive and supportive culture, where teamwork is celebrated and every voice matters. Our Children’s Services team is known for its welcoming atmosphere and impactful work - staff consistently say how rewarding and fulfilling it is to be part of such a dedicated team.
Following a restructure, we are looking for a suitably qualified and experienced individual to lead and manage the delivery of high-quality social work practice across the Integrated Front Door (IFD), Assessment teams, and Bedford’s response to domestic abuse. The postholder will combine operational leadership with strategic workforce development to improve outcomes for children and families and ensure a strong pipeline of capable practitioners. They will also lead on the Families First Partnership government programme, support the implementation of multi-agency child protection reforms and make greater use of Family Group Decision Making.
The successful applicant will be a qualified Social Worker registered with Social Work England. They will also have in-depth knowledge of current issues and latest legislation relating to all services covered by this role, and significant strategic management/service planning at a senior level.
When you are ready to apply, click on ‘Apply for Vacancy’; you will be asked to create an account, upload a CV showing you meet the requirements of the role, and answer some application questions.
Closing Date: 11th June 2026
Head of Social Work Practice & Family Services in Bedford employer: Bedford Borough Council
Bedford Borough Council’s Children's Services is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment where every team member's contributions are valued. With a strong focus on professional development and a commitment to improving outcomes for children and families, employees enjoy meaningful work that makes a real difference in the community. The friendly atmosphere and collaborative culture ensure that staff feel empowered and fulfilled in their roles, making it a truly rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Social Work Practice & Family Services in Bedford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Bedford Borough Council on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info about the team and the role, plus it shows your genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by understanding the latest legislation and issues in social work. We recommend jotting down key points and examples from your experience that align with the job description. This will help you shine when discussing your qualifications.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for supporting families! During the interview, share specific stories where you've made a positive impact. This not only highlights your skills but also aligns with the council's mission of promoting good outcomes for vulnerable children.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it’s super easy to create an account and upload your CV. Let’s get you that interview!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Social Work Practice & Family Services in Bedford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for social work and supporting families shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in the lives of children and young people.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your relevant experience and qualifications. We’re looking for someone with a strong background in social work, so don’t be shy about showcasing your achievements!
Answer Application Questions Thoughtfully:Take your time with the application questions. We want to hear your thoughts on current issues in social work and how you would approach challenges. This is your chance to show us your strategic thinking!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and keep track of everything. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our friendly team at Bedford Borough Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bedford Borough Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest legislation and current issues in social work. Familiarise yourself with Bedford Borough Council’s approach to children's services, especially their focus on evidence-based interventions and family support. This will show that you're not just qualified, but genuinely interested in their mission.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a potential Head of Social Work Practice, you'll need to demonstrate your operational leadership experience. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past, particularly in challenging situations. Highlight your strategic planning skills and how you've improved outcomes for children and families.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Inclusivity
Bedford Borough Council values a supportive and inclusive culture. Be ready to discuss how you've fostered teamwork in previous roles. Share specific instances where you’ve encouraged diverse voices and collaboration within your team, as this aligns perfectly with their ethos.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, you’ll likely have the chance to ask questions. Use this opportunity to inquire about their current initiatives or challenges they face in children's services. This not only shows your interest but also gives you insight into how you can contribute effectively if hired.
