Team Leader for Family Help within Portsmouth's Children and Families Services, a fixed-term post for up to a year to cover maternity leave. The role gives operational leadership to social workers and Family Help Lead Practitioners, covering supervision, casework allocation and oversight of risk, thresholds and care planning. It is primarily office-based and centres on multi-agency partnership with education, health, police and the voluntary sector. Fit depends on social work registration, substantial post-qualifying experience and a DBS check.
What the job involves
- Provide day-to-day operational leadership to a team of social workers and Family Help Lead Practitioners
- Deliver reflective supervision, coaching and mentoring to practitioners
- Oversee the allocation and progression of casework
- Give confident leadership on risk, thresholds, care planning and decision-making
- Ensure children and families receive timely, proportionate, high-quality support that meets statutory requirements
- Monitor performance against KPIs and statutory timescales
- Support audits, thematic reviews and improvement activity
- Contribute to service transformation, inspection readiness and development of the Family Help approach
- Lead multi-agency meetings and work with education, health, police, Early Help and the voluntary sector
- Support co-production with children, young people, families and carers
- Model a restorative, relational and strengths-based approach and support colleagues through change
What’s required
Qualifications
- Qualified social worker
Registration & licences
- Registration with a relevant professional body
Experience
- Substantial post-qualifying experience within Children's Services
Skills & knowledge
- Strong understanding of safeguarding practice and relevant statutory frameworks
- Knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice
- Knowledge of Family Help and early intervention principles
- Provide reflective supervision and practice guidance
- Make decisions under pressure and assess and manage risk
- Work effectively within complex multi-agency environments
Checks & eligibility
- DBS check at Standard or Enhanced level before any offer
- Right to work in the UK
Other
- Strong communication, organisation, IT and analytical skills
- Explain any gaps in career history within the last 5 years
What’s offered
- Recruitment and retention package of up to £2,500, paid monthly
- Access to professional development and leadership support
- Supportive, learning-focused culture
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Team Leader - Family Help - Fixed Term contract up to 1 Year employer: Portsmouth City Council
Portsmouth City Council is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a positive and inclusive work culture that prioritises respect, integrity, and collaboration. As a SEN Team Leader, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people with special educational needs, while benefiting from professional development opportunities and a supportive team environment. Located in the vibrant city of Portsmouth, this role offers a unique chance to contribute to strategic SEND developments and be part of a forward-thinking organisation committed to service improvement and community well-being.
