At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team in providing emergency social care across Berkshire.
- Company: Join Bracknell Forest Council, a respected leader in social services.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28-33 days annual leave, hybrid working, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals and families.
- Qualifications: Must be a registered Social Worker with strong leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are looking for an Operational Lead to join the Berkshire Emergency Duty Service (EDS) hosted by Bracknell Forest Council, a highly respected service delivering out‑of‑hours emergency social care across all six Berkshire authorities. This permanent part‑time role (28‑32 hours per week on a fixed rota of Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays) offers the opportunity to support vulnerable children, adults and families during times of crisis while working with skilled professionals.
As Operational Lead, you will be a registered Social Worker with significant experience leading multi‑disciplinary services. You will have a person‑centred approach underpinned by a sound understanding of the legal, policy and practice frameworks across social care and health, ideally with substantial knowledge of Children’s Social Care. Adult Social Care and mental health knowledge is also desirable.
You Will Bring
- Strong operational leadership experience, with the ability to lead complex services and deliver high‑quality outcomes in fast‑paced environments
- Strategic resource management skills, ensuring effective prioritisation and deployment in the context of competing demands
- Confidence to challenge and influence partners, driving improved service delivery for children and vulnerable adults across Berkshire
- Experience using data and systems to monitor performance, evaluate impact, and support continuous improvement
- Financial awareness, including budget monitoring and resource oversight
- A strong commitment to workforce development, supporting and developing staff to achieve their full potential
- Experience managing sensitive complaints and customer relations, with professionalism and sound judgement
- Inspirational leadership, with the ability to innovate, motivate and embed a culture of excellence and continuous improvement
Key Responsibilities
- Drive improved outcomes for individuals and families by leading high‑quality responses in complex out‑of‑hours situations
- Provide decisive, visible leadership across a fast‑paced, multi‑disciplinary Emergency Duty Service
- Shape and deliver an ambitious performance, quality assurance and workforce development agenda
- Lead collaboratively with a high‑performing management team to embed excellence and continuous improvement across the service
Benefits
- 28 days annual leave increasing to 33 days after 3 years’ continuous service, with the opportunity to buy up to 10 days and sell up to 5 days (pro‑rata for part‑time)
- Hybrid working opportunities to support wellbeing and work‑life balance
- Paid employee volunteering scheme
- Local government pension scheme with life insurance cover
- Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme (subject to eligibility)
- Reimbursement of Social Work England registration
- Recognition of continuous service attained within the NHS and UKHSA for certain benefits (terms and conditions apply)
- Career development through internal and external training opportunities
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, adoption and fostering leave
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support health and wellbeing
- Inclusive and social working environment with a variety of staff networks and a sports and social club (pro‑rata for part‑time)
Our values at Bracknell Forest Council are inclusive, ambitious and always learning. These values influence how we work together, serve residents and engage communities. We make our values real by demonstrating them in how we behave every day.
Bracknell Forest Council is proud to be an inclusive employer. Candidates will be guaranteed an interview if they meet the essential criteria, regardless of disability, armed forces veteran status or care leaver background.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All successful candidates will be subject to a DBS check as part of the pre‑employment checks process.
Operational Lead - Emergency Duty Service (part time 28 to 32 hours per week) (pay award pending) in Bracknell employer: Bracknell Forest Council
Bracknell Forest Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment for those passionate about making a difference in the lives of individuals facing addiction challenges. With extensive training programmes, generous leave policies, and opportunities for career development, employees can thrive both personally and professionally while contributing to the well-being of the community in Bracknell. The council's commitment to employee welfare, including hybrid working options and a strong emphasis on work-life balance, makes it an attractive place for meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operational Lead - Emergency Duty Service (part time 28 to 32 hours per week) (pay award pending) in Bracknell
✨Get Involved in Community Events
Dive headfirst into community events and social work fairs in your area. These are great opportunities to connect with potential employers like Bracknell Forest Council, grab some insider info, and showcase your passion for social work. Plus, meeting people face-to-face can really make you stand out!
✨Join Social Work Networks
Tap into social work networks and online communities, like local charities and organisations. Engaging in discussions or volunteering can help you build a strong reputation and could lead to part-time roles just like the one at Bracknell Forest Council. The connections you make could be the key to landing your next opportunity!
✨Make Your Passion Shine
When approaching part-time roles, be sure to highlight your passion for social issues in conversations and informal chats. Bring your experiences to life through storytelling – this can resonate well with organisations looking for someone who genuinely cares about making a difference!
✨Keep an Eye on Local Job Boards
Part-time roles in social work might not always be advertised in the usual places. Keep checking local job boards or community centres for openings, and don't hesitate to apply directly through Bracknell Forest Council's website – we love seeing proactive candidates who take the initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace Operational Lead - Emergency Duty Service (part time 28 to 32 hours per week) (pay award pending) in Bracknell
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let your passion for social work shine through. Talk about why you're drawn to this field and how you've been involved in community service or support roles. We want to see your commitment and the heart you bring to the table!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to spotlight any hands-on experience you have! Whether it's internships, volunteering, or relevant coursework, detail how your past experiences relate to the role at Bracknell Forest Council. We love seeing candidates who have practical skills and a real understanding of social issues.
Certificates and Training Matter:If you've got any relevant certifications or training specific to social work (like safeguarding training or counselling qualifications), don’t forget to include these in your CV! These details can set you apart and show us you’re serious about your professional development.
Be Flexible with Your Availability:Since this is a part-time role, explain your availability clearly in your application. Let us know when you can start and how many hours you’re looking to work. Being upfront about your schedule will help us see how you fit into the team at Bracknell Forest Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bracknell Forest Council
✨Show Your Passion for Helping Others
In social work, it's all about your commitment to making a difference. Be ready to share specific experiences that highlight your passion for helping others, whether that's through volunteering, placements, or personal stories. We want to see that genuine drive during your chat with Bracknell Forest Council.
✨Know Your Social Work Theories
You might be quizzed on social work theories or models that inform your practice, like the person-in-environment approach. Brush up on these concepts and be prepared to discuss how you'd apply them in a practical setting. This could be a game changer in your interview for a Operational Lead - Emergency Duty Service (part time 28 to 32 hours per week) (pay award pending) at Bracknell Forest Council.
✨Flexibility and Availability are Key
As you're going for a part-time role, highlight your flexibility and how it would fit with the organisation's needs. Have examples ready that demonstrate your availability for various shifts or urgent situations—that's just gold for a social work role.
✨Prepare for a Situation-Based Discussion
Expect scenario-based questions where you'll need to demonstrate how you'd handle specific situations with clients or stakeholders. Think of a couple of real-life scenarios you've encountered and articulate your thought process. This will show Bracknell Forest Council that you're ready to hit the ground running in the Operational Lead - Emergency Duty Service (part time 28 to 32 hours per week) (pay award pending) role.
