At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead community-driven services that empower individuals and activate communities.
- Company: Dynamic organisation focused on wellbeing and inclusive practices.
- Benefits: Flexible working, 36 days leave, pension scheme, and learning opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive culture that values diversity and promotes career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while leading innovative change.
- Qualifications: Experience in mental health or community services and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 35678 - 37596 £ per year.
Location: Southampton
Salary: £35,678 to £37,596 per annum
Hours: 35 per week
Contract: Fixed term contract (12 months)
Additional Requirement: Applicants must have a full licence (2 years) and access to a vehicle.
Are you ready to lead innovative, community-driven services that make a real difference in people's lives? Are you passionate about improving wellbeing and reducing reliance on formal care? Do you thrive in a leadership role that blends strategy, service delivery, and community engagement? As a Senior Service Lead, you'll guide specialist teams to deliver strength-based interventions that empower individuals and activate communities. You'll work closely with the Community Mental Health Team, Adult Social Care and other partners to shape services that are safe, effective, and sustainable. Your insights will help us continuously improve and maximise impact - are you ready to lead change?
What will a day in the life of a Senior Service Lead involve?
- Coaching teams to deliver personalised, holistic support that builds resilience and independence.
- Overseeing safe, outcome-focused interventions and reviewing complex casework.
- Building strategic relationships with health, social care, and voluntary sector partners.
- Analysing service data and feedback to drive improvements and inform future commissioning.
To be a successful Senior Service Lead, what will you need?
- Experience in casework across mental health, substance use, or other community-based services.
- Strong knowledge of the health and social care system and experience managing dispersed teams.
- Excellent coaching, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
- A proactive, solutions-focused mindset with a passion for quality improvement.
- Emotional intelligence, resilience, and a commitment to inclusive practice.
Interested? The closing date for applications is 23.59 on Thursday 23rd July 2026.
In return for your commitment and expertise, you'll get:
- Flexible working: Remote and hybrid working, flexitime, compressed hours, and job sharing.
- Holidays: 36 days annual leave (including bank holidays) + option to buy 5 extra days.
- Pension scheme: Up to 6% contributory pension.
- Learning & Development: A range of career & learning opportunities.
- Discounts: Blue Light Discount Card, Tickets For Good & employee benefits platform.
- Wellbeing Support: Peer Supporters, CiC (EAP) & Headspace App.
- Cycle2Work: Lease a bicycle through the scheme.
We are proud to be a Disability Confident and Carers Confident employer. We are dedicated to building an inclusive, equitable and wellbeing-focused culture where everyone feels safe, valued and can thrive. Guided by our Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Wellbeing Strategy, we foster belonging, psychological and physical wellbeing, and work to remove barriers to fair opportunities. Grounded in compassion and anti-racist practice, we listen to diverse voices, value lived experience and create environments where staff and volunteers can succeed. Join us and be part of an organisation that leads with care, celebrates difference and helps everyone succeed.
Service Manager - Planning Policy in England employer: British Red Cross
The British Red Cross is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and flexible work environment in Glasgow that prioritises the well-being of both employees and those they serve. With a strong commitment to employee growth and development, the organisation provides comprehensive benefits and fosters a culture of compassion and teamwork, making it an ideal place for individuals passionate about making a meaningful impact in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Service Manager - Planning Policy in England
✨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 British Red Cross, 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 Service Manager - Planning Policy in England
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 British Red Cross. 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 British Red Cross. 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 British Red Cross
✨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 British Red Cross.
✨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 Service Manager - Planning Policy role at British Red Cross, 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 British Red Cross that you can think critically and act effectively under pressure.
