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- Tasks: Lead and innovate in adult social care services for learning disabilities and autism.
- Company: York Council, committed to community and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Why this job: Shape the future of adult care and empower individuals towards independence.
- Qualifications: Social work qualification and experience in managing teams and services.
- Other info: Join a supportive environment focused on continuous improvement and community connection.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Overview of the Head of Service – Learning Disabilities, Autism and Preparation for Adulthood at York Council. Full‑time, 37 hours per week, temporary 6‑month assignment based in York with a hybrid working arrangement (3 days in office, 2 days at home).
Responsibilities:
- Provide strategic leadership and direction across a portfolio of adult social care services, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements.
- Ensure effective delivery of adult social care services across York, aligned with the Adult Social Care Vision and a strengths, place and relationship focused approach.
- Lead and manage multidisciplinary teams, specialist areas and strategic partnerships within the council.
- Develop and implement integrated approaches with York Council and external partners to connect people to communities, enhance independence and prevent, reduce or delay care needs.
- Deputise for the Assistant Director of Adult Social Care where required, maintaining efficient and effective service provision.
- Drive continuous improvement of practice, fostering a culture of integrity, openness and honesty.
Qualifications & Experience:
- Social work qualification (DipSW, CQSW, CSW, CSS) and registration with Social Work England.
- Demonstrated ability to apply statutory responsibilities within adult social care.
- Extensive experience managing frontline staff and services, including business planning, workforce planning and performance management.
- Proven collaboration and engagement skills with partners, communities, stakeholders and the workforce.
- Management experience involving complex decision making and problem resolution at senior level.
- People‑management experience at team and individual levels, including performance review, training and development.
- Strong knowledge of council and national policies, personalisation, safeguarding and best practice in strengths‑based support.
- In‑depth understanding of partnership working relevant to social care delivery in York.
- Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, with a solid track record of promoting positive initiatives.
Requirements:
- Duty of the post holder to undertake an Enhanced – Adult Workforce Criminal Record Check via the Disclosure and Barring Service.
- Valid right to work in the United Kingdom.
Head of Service - Learning Disabilities, Autism and preparation for Adulthood employer: City of York Trading Ltd (WorkwithYork)
Contact Detail:
City of York Trading Ltd (WorkwithYork) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Service - Learning Disabilities, Autism and preparation for Adulthood
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the field of adult social care, especially those involved with learning disabilities and autism. Attend local events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and partners; you never know who might have the inside scoop on job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills! When you get the chance to chat with hiring managers or during interviews, share specific examples of how you've led teams and improved services. Highlight your experience in managing multidisciplinary teams and driving continuous improvement – it’s what they want to hear!
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to pop up. Reach out directly to York Council or similar organisations to express your interest in roles related to adult social care. Sometimes, creating a connection can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 4
Utilise our website! We’ve got loads of resources and tips to help you prepare for interviews and showcase your qualifications effectively. Make sure to check out our platform for insights on best practices in social care and how to present your experience in the best light.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Service - Learning Disabilities, Autism and preparation for Adulthood
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in adult social care, especially around learning disabilities and autism. We want to see how your skills align with our vision at York Council!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As the Head of Service, you'll be leading multidisciplinary teams. Use your application to demonstrate your leadership experience and how you've successfully managed teams in the past. We love seeing examples of collaboration and engagement!
Highlight Your Commitment to Inclusion: We value equality, diversity, and inclusion highly. Make sure to include any initiatives or experiences that showcase your commitment to these principles. It’s a big part of what we do at StudySmarter and York Council!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at City of York Trading Ltd (WorkwithYork)
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the key responsibilities of the Head of Service role. Brush up on adult social care policies, especially those relevant to learning disabilities and autism. Familiarise yourself with York Council’s vision and how your experience aligns with their strategic goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in leading multidisciplinary teams and managing complex decision-making processes. Think about specific situations where you’ve driven improvements or fostered a culture of integrity and openness within your team.
✨Engage with the Community Focus
Demonstrate your understanding of community engagement and partnership working. Be ready to discuss how you’ve successfully connected people to communities and enhanced independence in previous roles. This will show that you’re aligned with the council's strengths-based approach.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Diversity
York Council values equality, diversity, and inclusion. Prepare to talk about initiatives you’ve led or been part of that promote these values. Highlight your track record in creating inclusive environments and how you plan to continue this in the new role.