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- Tasks: Lead and support teams to advocate for children's best interests in family court.
- Company: Cafcass, a dedicated service representing children in family court cases.
- Benefits: Generous holidays, excellent pension, flexible working, and exclusive discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children and families while enjoying a supportive work environment.
- Qualifications: Registered with Social Work England and experience in children's social work.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to wellbeing and professional development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are Cafcass - the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service. We represent children in family court cases in England, independently advising the family courts about what is safe for children and in their best interests. We speak up for children when the family court makes critical decisions about their futures, ensuring their needs, wishes and feelings are heard. We offer flexible and independent working with access to strong technology and resources. We encourage development across teams and locations, with opportunities to make a difference for children and families.
Wellbeing and Diversity
We prioritise wellbeing with four dedicated days per year for health and wellbeing activities. We offer a health and wellbeing cash plan (basic premium paid by Cafcass, with optional family coverage) to help with routine health expenses. Our in-house wellbeing team supports physical, mental and financial health, including guidance for specific health conditions. An Employee Assistance Programme provides free confidential support 24/7, with access to clinical and professional expertise. Over 125 colleagues are trained as Health and Wellbeing Champions, and nearly 100 are Mental Health Allies. We value diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from diverse backgrounds. We are a disability confident leader and accommodate reasonable adjustments in our recruitment process. We have Diversity Networks to support inclusive working environments and celebrate the diversity of children and families we serve.
Role and Responsibilities
Being a Service Manager is rewarding and challenging. You will be registered with Social Work England, and you will be organised, resilient, empathetic, supportive and able to work independently. Responsibilities include:
- Expert knowledge of children's social work, including safeguarding, statutory and assessment frameworks
- A track record of highly effective practice management or supervisory experience
- Experience as a practice educator with the skills to monitor, develop and improve team and individual performance
- Proven ability to establish strong networks with other agencies
- Experience of leading individuals and teams through change
Qualifications and Requirements
Registered with Social Work England. Evidence of sound professional practice and ability to work with children and families in safeguarding and related contexts.
Location and Working Arrangements
We trust and empower colleagues to work in a hybrid way, with resources, equipment, and support to act as the voice of children and young people. The role is based from our offices in Grays Inn Road or Croydon, but teams work flexibly and remotely where possible. We are a diverse, inclusive organisation and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
Benefits
- Generous holidays: 28 days rising to 33 with five years’ service, with option to buy/sell holidays
- Excellent pension: 18.1% employer contribution to the Local Government Pension scheme
- Flexible working: hybrid model with potential 9-day fortnights
- Exclusive discounts across leisure, technology, travel, personal finance, fashion and supermarkets
- Professional fees: Social Work England membership fees reimbursed for colleagues
- Car leasing scheme with competitive rates
Next steps
We look forward to welcoming new colleagues who share our values and commitment to children and families. If you are intrigued by this opportunity, please apply through our careers site.
Service Manager - Private Law - Flexible London Location employer: Cafcass
Contact Detail:
Cafcass Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Service Manager - Private Law - Flexible London Location
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the field, especially those already working at Cafcass. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by knowing your stuff! Brush up on current issues in children's social work and think about how your experience aligns with Cafcass's mission. Show them you’re passionate about making a difference!
✨Tip Number 3
Be yourself during the interview! Cafcass values authenticity and diversity, so let your personality shine through. Share your experiences and how they’ve shaped your approach to supporting children and families.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! A quick thank-you email after your interview can leave a lasting impression. It shows you’re genuinely interested in the role and appreciate the opportunity to chat.
We think you need these skills to ace Service Manager - Private Law - Flexible London Location
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences that match the Service Manager role. Highlight your knowledge of children's social work and any relevant supervisory experience to show us you’re the right fit.
Showcase Your Empathy: As a Service Manager, empathy is key! Use your application to demonstrate how you've supported children and families in the past. Share examples that illustrate your ability to listen and advocate for their needs.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your qualifications and experiences shine through without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application via our careers site! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity to make a difference.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cafcass
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of children's social work, safeguarding, and the relevant statutory frameworks. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're not just familiar with the role but also passionate about making a difference for children and families.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that highlight your practice management or supervisory experience. Think about times when you've led teams through change or developed individual performance – these stories will demonstrate your capability and resilience.
✨Network Like a Pro
Cafcass values strong networks with other agencies, so be ready to talk about how you've built relationships in previous roles. Share examples of how these connections have helped improve outcomes for children and families, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Emphasise Wellbeing and Diversity
Familiarise yourself with Cafcass's commitment to wellbeing and diversity. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to an inclusive working environment and support the wellbeing of your team. This shows that you align with their values and are ready to be a positive force within the organisation.