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- Tasks: Lead safeguarding and advocacy initiatives, shaping national policy for children and adults across Wales.
- Company: National Office for Care and Support, part of the Health, Social Care and Early Years Group.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and the chance to influence meaningful change.
- Other info: High-trust role with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration with key stakeholders.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on safeguarding practices and advocate for vulnerable individuals in society.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in policy development and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 61098 - 73057 ÂŁ per year.
The Head of Safeguarding and Advocacy leads the Safeguarding and Advocacy Branch within the National Office for Care and Support, part of the Health, Social Care and Early Years Group (HSCEY). The role is responsible for the strategic direction of safeguarding adults and children, ensuring children can express their views through advocacy across Wales. The incumbent advises senior leaders and Welsh Ministers, works closely with government ministers, key professionals and sector stakeholders, and delivers national safeguarding and advocacy policy.
Responsibilities
- Provide expert leadership and advice on strategic and policy direction for safeguarding adults and children and advocacy.
- Develop professional practice and support operational issues related to safeguarding adults, children and advocacy.
- Offer senior leaders and Welsh Ministers timely, high‑quality, evidence‑based professional advice on safeguarding and advocacy matters.
- Build and maintain effective networks and relationships with relevant government departments across the UK.
- Develop and sustain relationships with key stakeholders, including Directors of Social Services, the National Independent Safeguarding Board, Regional Safeguarding Boards, Commissioners for Children and Older People, and the Wales Safeguarding Procedures Project Board.
- Engage with Welsh Government departments to address cross‑cutting policy areas such as Violence Against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence (VAWDASV) and Digital Safety and Resilience.
- Provide strategic oversight, direction and leadership of the Strategy for Preventing and Responding to Child Sexual Abuse (2026–2036), the National Statutory Approach to Advocacy and the National Action Plan for Preventing the Abuse of Older People.
Development Opportunities
This is a high‑trust, high‑impact role that operates with a significant degree of autonomy. The Head of Safeguarding and Advocacy will shape national safeguarding and advocacy policy, working closely with senior leaders and decision‑makers to influence pan‑Wales safeguarding practice. The position offers opportunity to lead complex work programmes and to make direct contributions to the development of safeguarding policy at the national level.
Qualifications & Attributes
- Extensive experience in building strong internal and external relationships, based on collaboration and trust, to deliver high‑profile, sensitive policy objectives.
- Demonstrated ability to see the big picture, synthesise diverse viewpoints and gain a broad understanding of the policy landscape.
- Strong decision‑making skills, able to present reasonable conclusions from complex, sometimes incomplete evidence.
- Leadership skills that promote diversity, inclusion and equality of opportunity, respecting difference and external experience.
- Capacity to deliver at pace, maintaining performance levels in challenging circumstances and encouraging others to do the same.
Salary and Working Conditions
Salary range: £61,098 – £73,057 (Grade 7). The role is full‑time; part‑time, job share or hybrid working arrangements are welcomed. The position requires occasional travel for events and meetings relevant to the role and to support Ministers.
Head of Safeguarding and Advocacy in London employer: Llywodraeth Cymru / Welsh Government
Contact Detail:
Llywodraeth Cymru / Welsh Government Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Safeguarding and Advocacy in London
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the safeguarding and advocacy field. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that you didn’t even know existed!
✨Showcase Your Expertise
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or at networking events, make sure to highlight your experience and knowledge in safeguarding and advocacy. Share specific examples of how you've made an impact in previous roles – this will help you stand out from the crowd.
✨Stay Updated on Policy Changes
Keep yourself in the loop with the latest developments in safeguarding policies and practices. This not only shows your commitment to the field but also gives you valuable talking points during interviews. Plus, it’ll help you engage meaningfully with stakeholders.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply for the Head of Safeguarding and Advocacy role through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Safeguarding and Advocacy in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in safeguarding and advocacy. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: This role is all about leading and influencing, so be sure to include examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. We love seeing candidates who can inspire others and drive change!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. Remember, less is often more!
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 the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Llywodraeth Cymru / Welsh Government
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in safeguarding policies and advocacy practices. Brush up on current legislation and key issues affecting children and adults in Wales. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Build Your Network
Before the interview, think about how you can leverage your existing relationships with stakeholders. Be ready to discuss how you’ve built effective networks in the past and how you plan to maintain these connections in this role.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience, especially in promoting diversity and inclusion. Think about specific situations where you’ve led teams or initiatives that align with the values of safeguarding and advocacy.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle complex situations or policy challenges. Practice articulating your thought process and decision-making skills, especially when faced with incomplete evidence or sensitive issues.