At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape practice strategies to improve lives of individuals with learning disabilities.
- Company: Hft, a values-driven organisation dedicated to supporting people with learning disabilities.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Join a mission-driven team focused on rights-based, person-centred care.
- Why this job: Influence national practice and enhance quality of life for those we support.
- Qualifications: Senior experience in learning disability services and expertise in Positive Behaviour Support.
About the role
We’re looking for an experienced and values-led Head of Practice to provide strategic and professional leadership for practice across Hft.
This is a key national leadership role, responsible for shaping our approach to Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), restrictive practice reduction, PROACT-SCIPr-UK, practice standards, workforce capability and coaching, and rights-based and trauma-informed practice.
A key priority will be leading Hft’s transition to PROACT-SCIPr-UK, ensuring this is embedded within our wider PBS and restrictive practice reduction approach and translates into meaningful improvements in frontline practice and the quality of life of the people we support.
You’ll lead our PBS / Practice Team, provide expert oversight of complex situations and act as a trusted professional adviser to senior leaders on practice quality, risk, outcomes and improvement.
- What you’ll be doing
- Develop and lead an organisation-wide Practice Strategy and Practice Standards Framework.
- Provide professional leadership, advice and constructive challenge to senior and operational leaders.
- Lead and develop the PBS / Practice Team and build sustainable specialist capability.
- Lead the implementation of PROACT-SCIPr-UK across the organisation.
- Drive our restrictive practice reduction strategy, using data and evidence to identify opportunities for improvement.
- Provide specialist leadership around complex and high-risk practice situations.
- Develop workforce capability through training, coaching, observation, modelling and reflective practice.
- Embed rights-based, person-centred and trauma-informed approaches across Hft.
- Lead or contribute to practice-related policies and professional guidance.
- Provide senior leadership with clear evidence of practice quality, risk, outcomes and improvement.
- What you’ll bring
We’re looking for someone with
- Significant senior experience within learning disability and/or autism services.
- Strong professional expertise in Positive Behaviour Support.
- Significant knowledge and practical experience of PROACT-SCIPr-UK, with the ability to lead organisational implementation.
- Experience of restrictive practice reduction and least restrictive approaches.
- Experience leading specialist practice or PBS teams.
- A strong track record of developing practice standards, frameworks and guidance.
- Experience building workforce capability through coaching, training and practice leadership.
- Strong knowledge of safeguarding, Mental Capacity Act principles and relevant health and social care requirements.
- The confidence to influence, advise and constructively challenge senior leaders.
- A relevant professional qualification and evidence of continued specialist development.
A postgraduate qualification in PBS, Applied Behaviour Analysis, Psychology or a related discipline, relevant professional registration and PROACT-SCIPr-UK instructor or advanced implementation experience would be desirable.
What success looks like
Success in this role will mean better outcomes and quality of life for the people we support.
You’ll help ensure that PBS is embedded in everyday practice, restrictive practices are reduced wherever safely possible, PROACT-SCIPr-UK is successfully implemented, and managers and frontline teams have the confidence and capability to deliver consistently excellent, rights-based support.
Working arrangements
This is a national hybrid role with regular travel to Hft services and other locations across the organisation.
Why Hft?
At Hft, our mission is simple: the best life possible.
We believe people with learning disabilities should be able to live within their communities, with all the choice and support they need to live the best life possible.
This is an exciting opportunity to influence practice at a national level and make a genuine difference to the lives of the people we support.
Recruitment process
Applications close on 11 October 2026.
Interviews will take place on 27 October 2026 and will be held via Microsoft Teams
Head of Practice employer: Hft
Hft is an exceptional employer that prioritises a values-driven culture, fostering a supportive environment where employees can thrive. With a strong focus on professional development and continuous improvement, our Purchase Ledger Lead will have the opportunity to lead a dedicated team while making a meaningful impact in the charity sector. Located in a vibrant community, we offer competitive benefits and a collaborative atmosphere that encourages innovation and growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Practice
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at Hft!
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Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at Hft.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Practice
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at Hft. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to Hft and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at Hft. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Hft's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hft
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with Hft.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at Hft will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact Hft and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
