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- Tasks: Lead and manage the Independent Reviewing Officer service to ensure quality safeguarding for children.
- Company: Cheshire West and Chester Council, a values-driven organisation focused on teamwork and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive pay up to £44.84 per hour and an early finish on Fridays for work-life balance.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while shaping safeguarding practices at a senior level.
- Qualifications: Degree in Social Work and proven experience in managing children's services teams.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to positive outcomes for families and children.
The predicted salary is between 35 - 45 £ per hour.
Cheshire West and Chester Council is recruiting an experienced Agency Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) Operational Manager to be based at The Portal, Ellesmere Port. This is a senior operational leadership role within Children's Services, offering the opportunity to play a pivotal part in driving quality, safeguarding, and positive outcomes for children and families. This role sits within the Families First for Children reform, offering exciting opportunities to influence leadership, practice, and partnership working across the service.
Role Details
- Location: The Portal, Ellesmere Port
- Hours: 37 hours per week
- Finish time: 16:30 on Fridays
- Pay rate: Up to £44.84 per hour umbrella
Job Responsibilities
- Manage and oversee the Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) service within the council.
- Ensure statutory reviews for children in care are completed on time and in accordance with regulations.
- Monitor and report on the quality of care plans, making recommendations for improvements.
- Liaise with social workers, foster carers, and other professionals to ensure the welfare of children.
- Provide guidance, support, and supervision to IRO staff.
- Contribute to policy development and service improvements within the department.
- Maintain accurate records and prepare reports for senior management.
What We're Looking For
- Degree-level qualification in Social Work (or equivalent) with current regulatory body registration.
- Proven experience managing children's services teams at an operational level.
- Strong track record of overseeing statutory reviews and ensuring high-quality, outcome-focused practice.
- In-depth understanding of the Families First for Children framework and safeguarding principles.
- Excellent knowledge of Children's legislation and statutory guidance, including Care Planning, Placements, and Case Review Regulations.
- Demonstrable experience in care planning for children and families.
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and develop staff.
- Skilled in partnership working, service delivery, and performance management.
Why Join Cheshire West and Chester Council?
- Competitive umbrella rate up to £44.84 per hour.
- Opportunity to shape safeguarding practice at a senior operational level.
- Be part of an ambitious and values-led organisation.
- Work within a council committed to Teamwork, Honesty, Respect, Innovation, Value for Money, and Empowerment.
- Early Friday finish supporting work-life balance.
Independent Reviewing Officer Operational Manager in Ellesmere Port employer: Cheshire West and Chester Council
Contact Detail:
Cheshire West and Chester Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Independent Reviewing Officer Operational Manager in Ellesmere Port
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the social work field, especially those who have experience with Independent Reviewing Officer roles. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of the Families First for Children framework and safeguarding principles. We want you to showcase your expertise and passion for improving outcomes for children and families!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on organisations that align with your values. Check out our website for opportunities at Cheshire West and Chester Council, where you can make a real difference in children's services.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can keep you fresh in their minds and show your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’re the perfect fit for the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Independent Reviewing Officer Operational Manager in Ellesmere Port
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in managing children's services. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: In your application, emphasise your leadership experience and how you've motivated teams in the past. We want to see how you can drive quality and safeguarding excellence within our organisation.
Demonstrate Your Knowledge: Be sure to mention your understanding of the Families First for Children framework and relevant legislation. This will show us that you're well-versed in the principles that guide our work.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people and helps us keep track of all applicants.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cheshire West and Chester Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the Families First for Children framework and relevant legislation. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're not just familiar with the role but also passionate about safeguarding and improving outcomes for children.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in children's services before. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you motivated your team to overcome them. This will demonstrate your capability as an operational manager.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Quality Assurance
Since the role involves overseeing statutory reviews and care plans, be prepared to talk about your approach to quality assurance. Share any strategies you've implemented in the past to ensure high-quality, outcome-focused practice.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Don’t just wait for questions; engage with your interviewers. Ask insightful questions about their current practices and challenges. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if the council's values align with yours.
