We are recruiting for two separate Heads of Practice opportunities within a high performing and effective service region covering Kent Service Area and Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire Service Area. We currently have a permanent and 12-month fixed term opportunity. The location of the permanent and fixed-term opportunities will be determined based on the experience, skills and preferences of the successful candidates.
You will lead and support teams across either our Stevenage Service Area or our Kent Service Area, depending on your appointed location. Successful candidates will be based at either our Stevenage office or our Maidstone office, with responsibility for supporting teams and service delivery across the respective areas.
Let us tell you a bit more about the role…
As a Head of Practice, you will draw on your considerable, professional Social Work experience to lead and inspire those around you to ensure the delivery of high-quality services and practice.
You will set high standards and combine this with high levels of support so the Service Managers you lead can create the conditions for our Family Court Advisers, who engage directly with children and families, to deliver exceptional experiences.
Reporting directly to the Assistant Director - who has overall leadership responsibility for operational service areas that covers Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire and Kent you will lead on internal practice improvement as well influence local delivery partners while also working on a mix of strategic and operational matters.
By ensuring Cafcass priorities, policies and plans are delivered to the highest possible standard, you and your teams will deliver positive outcomes for children and young people going through significant events including care proceedings, adoption and parental separation.
More detailed information about the role responsibilities can be found in the job description, which you are encouraged to read prior to applying.
What We’re Looking For…
We are looking for someone who can demonstrate their experience and capability as a highly effective Leader who guides, influences and inspires others to consistently fulfil their responsibilities and to identify individual and collective opportunities for professional improvement.
You must be a qualified social worker with extensive experience in court proceedings and child protection. Also to be able to demonstrate a proven track record of working at a senior level in order to deliver the organisations strategic aims within a busy operational area.
You will also thrive on the responsibility of ensuring quality of practice and service delivery across the operational area is not only sustained but continually improved. You will be motivated to achieve performance standards by supporting Service Managers to ensure strong, consistent performance management behaviours and processes are embedded.
Further information
Whilst you can expect to work remotely some of the time, reflecting the seniority of the role there is a requirement for some national travel.
Similarly, as a Senior Leader, you will be expected to have a regular, visible office presence not only for formal meetings but to also model the importance and value of staff using office spaces to connect and collaborate.
As a guide, it is reasonable to expect you may be in the Stevenage or Kent office - or other offices across the service areas - twice per week, on average. Therefore, whilst you don't necessarily need to live close to the office(s) this may be something for you to consider.
We understand that considering a new role is a big decision, and you may require further information before applying. If so, please contact Richard Morris (Assistant Director) providing your contact details and best times to contact you.
Please be advised successful applicants will be subject to a range of pre-engagement checks, including a Disclosure and Barring Service check (DBS). In accordance with the DBS code of practice and our own policy, should an individual have a declared criminal offence an individual assessment will be completed. Further information on what the assessment covers can be found by viewing the Cafcass DBS policy.
We look forward to hearing from you.
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Head of Practice in Stevenage employer: Cafcass (Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service)
Cafcass is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises the well-being of families and children. With opportunities for professional growth and development, employees are encouraged to engage in meaningful work that makes a real difference in the community. Located in Newcastle, the company provides a collaborative environment where staff can thrive while contributing to vital family support services.
Contact Details:
Cafcass (Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service) Recruitment Team
