At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of adult neurodevelopmental policy and improve support services across Scotland.
- Company: Scottish Government's Health and Social Care Division focused on mental health.
- Benefits: Opportunity to influence significant public policy and work in a collaborative environment.
- Other info: Temporary position for 12 months with strong career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on neurodivergent adults' lives while engaging with high-profile stakeholders.
- Qualifications: Must be a substantive C1 employee with relevant experience in policy development.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
This opportunity is only open to applicants who are currently 'Priority Movers'. Applications from individuals not currently on the Priority Mover list will be rejected and not considered.
Based in DG Health and Social Care, this role sits within the Improving Mental Health Services Division within the Mental Health, Social Care and NCS Directorate. The Division currently comprises three Units working with system leaders to ensure people can access the right mental health services and neurodevelopmental support at the right time and in the right place.
As a team leader within the Care, Support and Access Unit, the postholder will be responsible for leading on adult neurodevelopmental policy. Under the leadership of the Unit Head, the postholder will work collaboratively with two other C1s working on CYP Neurodevelopment, CAMHS and specialist and regional CAMHS, perinatal and infant mental health services and eating disorders policies. The post involves direct line management responsibility for 1-2 members of staff and overall responsibility for a team of 3-4 officials, including professional advisers.
As part of its ongoing re-organisation, the Directorate is putting a focus on flexibility and adaptability, ensuring we always have the right level of resourcing to support our priorities. The postholder will model leadership in terms of flexibility, positivity, and supporting the ongoing evolution of Directorate and Division priorities and structures.
As the Adult Neurodevelopmental (ND) Policy Team Leader, you will be working in a politically high-profile, busy and exciting policy area within a small collaborative and supportive team / Unit. The role will provide opportunities to make a significant contribution in an area of Scottish Government policy that has significant public, policy and political interest, including a Manifesto commitment to roll out a new approach to support the needs of neurodivergent adults seeking services, assessment and diagnosis.
The role involves collaboration with colleagues and stakeholders working on related policy topics including Children & Young People’s ND, learning disabilities, and related health and social care spaces. The role involves significant Ministerial engagement given the profile of this policy issue, giving the postholder the opportunity to build on their current experience of delivering in a fast paced, high profile environment focused on delivery of Ministerial priorities.
Responsibilities- Lead and play an active role in progressing delivery of the Manifesto commitment to “work with partners across Scotland to adopt the Royal College of Psychiatrists’ 4-tiered national pathway for neurodevelopmental conditions to ensure anyone with or without a formal neurodevelopmental diagnosis can access the support they need when and where they need it”.
- Lead the development of policy to support improved neurodevelopmental support across Scotland, providing advice to Ministers on how to implement the 4-tiered approach, and on sound use of funding to progress this commitment, in line with agreed financial management processes.
- Lead on improvements to support for neurodivergent adults including continued work to scope a workstream to develop assessment standards for private providers delivering ND assessments, leading on advice to Ministers on assessment standards, and on development of SIGN guides for ND conditions.
- Lead on data improvement to inform approaches to development of new supports and services for neurodivergent adults.
- Play an active part in the collective leadership of the team, Unit, Division and Directorate, including driving forward delivery of agreed Ministerial / Directorate priorities, ensuring resources are matched to those priorities and that there is strong collaboration with other Team Leaders and the Unit Head in driving the priorities of the Unit’s work.
- Model leadership by providing structures that support the team, including actively managing performance and development among the team, providing constructive feedback and encouraging a focus on learning and development.
This role is a temporary position with an expected commitment of 12 months.
How to ApplyApplications for this position will only be accepted from substantive C1 employees. Please submit a statement outlining your suitability for the role, relevant skills and experience, and what you would bring to the team (maximum 500 words). Vacancy closes at 11:59pm.
Selection ProcessAll applications will be invited to an informal discussion with the hiring manager. Informal discussions are to be confirmed.
Further InformationIf you have specific questions about the role, please contact Suzi.Macpherson@gov.scot. Read our Candidate Guide for further information on our recruitment and application processes.
Adult Neurodevelopmental Policy Team Leader - C1 in Edinburgh employer: Scottish Government
The Scottish Government offers a dynamic and supportive work environment, where you can make a significant impact on customer service and safeguarding across Scotland. With a strong focus on employee development and innovation, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities while working alongside a dedicated team committed to excellence in public service. Join us in shaping a high-performing organisation that values collaboration and strives for transformative results.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Adult Neurodevelopmental Policy Team Leader - C1 in Edinburgh
✨Get Involved in Local Community Projects
One of the best ways to land a temporary role in social work is to dive headfirst into local community projects. Volunteer your time or skills at local charities or community centres to not only gain experience but also to connect with professionals in the field. They might just have some insider knowledge on temporary positions that pop up!
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✨Apply Directly Through Our Website!
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We think you need these skills to ace Adult Neurodevelopmental Policy Team Leader - C1 in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let's highlight why you're passionate about social work and how your values align with those of Scottish Government. Share specific experiences where you made a difference, as this field thrives on genuine motivation and connection.
Demonstrate Relevant Experience:When listing your experience, focus on any internships, volunteer roles, or temporary positions you've had in social work or related fields. Those skills are gold! Think about situations where you helped individuals or communities, and don't forget to mention any relevant certifications, like safeguarding or mental health first aid.
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Remember, for a temporary role, hiring managers want to see how you fit in and can hit the ground running. Keep your CV clear and to the point, showcasing only the experience that really matters for the role at Scottish Government. We recommend a two-page limit – make every word count!
Emphasise Flexibility and Adaptability:Considering this is a temporary position, it's vital to show you can adapt to new environments quickly. In your application, highlight any past experiences where you had to adjust to different teams or roles smoothly. This shows you understand the nature of temporary work and are ready for the challenge!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Government
✨Sharpen Your Empathy Skills
In social work, it's all about understanding and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Make sure to prepare some examples from your experience where you've demonstrated empathy and resilience. Practising active listening techniques can help you articulate your approach during the interview with Scottish Government.
✨Know Your Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with key social work theories and frameworks, like the ecological systems theory or person-centred approaches. These concepts might pop up during your interview for the temporary Adult Neurodevelopmental Policy Team Leader - C1 role at Scottish Government, so it's good to have a couple of insights ready to share.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
Since this is a temporary position, showcasing your flexibility is key. Be prepared to discuss past experiences where you quickly adapted to new environments or changing client needs, which is crucial in the dynamic world of social work.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions that test your decision-making skills and ethical judgement. Think about how you would handle specific challenges you might face in the field. Having a clear structure for your answers will show Scottish Government that you can think critically and act effectively under pressure.
