At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team to improve outcomes for children in care.
- Company: Join Havering's dedicated safeguarding and corporate parenting service.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Be part of an exciting improvement journey in children's services.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Social Work qualification and experience managing children's social care teams required.
The predicted salary is between 59511 - 63966 € per year.
We are seeking an experienced and inspirational Team Manager to lead a Children in Care / Looked After Children social work team within our Safeguarding and Corporate Parenting Service. Reporting to a Service Manager, you will be responsible for the day‑to‑day operational leadership of the team, ensuring high‑quality, child‑centred, relationship‑based social work practice that delivers improved outcomes for children and young people in our care. Team Managers are integral to our service. You will provide support, challenge, and direction, motivating social workers and promoting consistent, high‑quality practice in line with legislation, guidance, and local priorities. You will be required to attend the office for three days per week.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage a statutory Children in Care social work team
- Ensure effective delivery of services in line with legislation, statutory guidance and best practice
- Provide high‑quality supervision, appraisal and professional development
- Promote systemic, relationship‑based and face‑to‑face practice
- Ensure robust recording, care planning and permanence planning, evidencing the voice of the child
- Chair and attend multi‑disciplinary meetings and reviews
- Manage performance, workloads and delegated budgets
- Work collaboratively with internal and external partner agencies
- Contribute to service development alongside the Service Manager and Head of Service, escalating issues and risks as required
About You
You will hold a recognised Social Work qualification, be registered with Social Work England, and have experience managing statutory children’s social care teams. You will demonstrate strong knowledge of relevant legislation and statutory responsibilities, with a proven ability to lead, supervise and motivate staff within a systemic model of practice. Experience of working with Children in Care is desirable.
Our Improvement Journey
Following a recent Ofsted inspection, we are undertaking a significant improvement journey to re‑establish and strengthen high‑quality practice across Children’s Services in Havering. We are looking for committed and resilient leaders motivated to improve services, promote children’s wellbeing, and contribute confidently to sustainable service improvement.
What We Offer
- A 10‑day learning and development offer each year
- Access to our Social Care Academy and Systemic Practice framework
- Strong senior leadership commitment to improvement
- A supportive environment focused on professional development and reflective practice
Equal Opportunities
We want everyone to choose Havering. When you apply for a job with us, your application is considered on its merits regardless of your age, disability, ethnicity, faith, gender identity or sexual orientation. Our residents and service users come from all walks of life, and so do our employees. Find out what it means to Choose Havering.
Legal Requirements
The London Borough of Havering has important responsibilities for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. If you are appointed to a job that involves working with these groups, you may be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
Team Manager Children in Care in London employer: London Borough of Havering
Havering is an excellent employer for those passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and young people. With a strong commitment to professional development, including a 10-day learning offer and access to our Social Care Academy, we foster a supportive work culture that values resilience and collaboration. Join us in our improvement journey, where your leadership will directly contribute to enhancing the quality of care and outcomes for children in our community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Team Manager Children in Care in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the social work field, especially those who have experience with Children in Care. They might have insider info on job openings or can even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of relevant legislation and best practices in children’s social care. We want you to showcase your expertise and passion for improving outcomes for children and young people.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll be part of our improvement journey right from the start!
We think you need these skills to ace Team Manager Children in Care in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience and skills that align with the role of Team Manager. We want to see how your background in managing statutory children’s social care teams makes you the perfect fit for us!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a Team Manager, you'll be leading a team, so don’t forget to emphasise your leadership experience. Share examples of how you've motivated and supported your team in the past – we love hearing about your successes!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and passion for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at London Borough of Havering
✨Know Your Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the relevant legislation and statutory responsibilities related to children in care. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with the rules, but that you understand how they impact your practice.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a team in the past. Think about specific situations where you motivated staff or improved service delivery. This will demonstrate your ability to inspire and manage a team effectively.
✨Emphasise Relationship-Based Practice
Be ready to talk about your approach to relationship-based social work. Share experiences where you’ve built strong connections with children and families, as well as how you’ve supported your team in doing the same.
✨Prepare for Multi-Disciplinary Meetings
Since you'll be chairing and attending multi-disciplinary meetings, think about your experience in this area. Prepare to discuss how you’ve collaborated with other agencies and how you handle challenges in these settings.
