Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead safeguarding initiatives and shape policies to protect individuals with complex disabilities.
- Company: Join Sense, a charity dedicated to supporting people with complex disabilities and promoting inclusion.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, excellent training, generous leave, and a Group Personal Pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in safeguarding while working in a diverse and supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Expertise in safeguarding, social care legislation, and experience in health & social care or charity sectors.
- Other info: We encourage applications from underrepresented backgrounds and value diversity in our workforce.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Join Sense at this exciting time and lead safeguarding across an organisation that puts people with complex disabilities at the heart of everything we do. We’re looking for a strategic safeguarding leader to take on a pivotal role as our Head of Safeguarding, supporting both Sense and Sense International. This is a unique opportunity to step into a high-impact leadership role just as we launch our new organisational strategy—and shape how safeguarding is not only embedded across our work but championed as a core value across every part of Sense.
About the Role
This is your chance to drive a culture of safety, accountability and learning across all parts of our organisation—from frontline services and education settings to our vibrant charity shops and international programmes. As our Head of Safeguarding, you will:
- Lead the strategic direction of safeguarding at Sense
- Shape, implement and monitor policies that protect and empower the individuals we support
- Support and advise teams across our UK and international operations
- Embed person-led, trauma-informed, and inclusive safeguarding practices
- Be our subject matter expert and represent Sense across national boards, networks and sector events, as well as advising senior leaders and the Board to ensure governance excellence
- Keep the voices and rights of people we support at the centre of all decisions
- Lead on serious case reviews, reporting, and continuous improvement
What We’re Looking For
- A safeguarding expert with deep knowledge of social care and education legislation across the UK
- A strategic thinker who can influence at Board level while supporting our frontline staff
- An inspiring leader who thrives on collaboration, learning and challenge
- Someone with a demonstrable commitment to addressing diversity and inclusion in all elements of Safeguarding policy and practice, including the ‘Making Safeguarding Personal’ initiative
- Proven experience working in health & social care and/or the charity sector
About Sense
For everyone living with complex disabilities. For everyone who is deafblind. Sense is here to help people communicate and experience the world. We believe that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Sense are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer.
Working at Sense can be incredibly rewarding; we offer the opportunity to work in a large, diverse and successful charity where people can develop their skills, knowledge and careers in a supportive and flexible environment. In addition, we have excellent training and development, the opportunity for you to join our Group Personal Pension scheme and a generous annual leave entitlement.
To apply
Please use the link below to complete your application. Managers will use your application to shortlist candidates for interview; in relation to the Personal Specification. Therefore, it is very important you complete this section thoroughly. We would recommend that you read the job description and person specification before applying.
Please note to avoid disappointment, we advise you to submit your application as soon as possible as we reserve the right to close posts at any time. No agency submissions please: any submissions without prior authorisation from the Sense Recruitment Team will be treated as our own and as such no fee will be payable.
Sense is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable children and adults and expects all employees to share this commitment. Therefore, all offers of employment, where appropriate, are subject to a DBS check; level dependent on the nature of the role.
For this role we particularly welcome applications from candidates from underrepresented ethnic minority backgrounds and candidates with disabilities. Sense is committed to equality of opportunity, and to promoting and celebrating the diversity of staff, volunteers and the people we work with. Everyone's contribution is valued and we ensure they’re given the opportunity to realise their potential. We welcome applications from talented people from all sections of the community who share our values and belief that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential.
Head of Safeguarding employer: Sense
Contact Detail:
Sense Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Safeguarding
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest safeguarding legislation and best practices in social care and education. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role and its responsibilities.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the safeguarding field, especially those who have experience in charity organisations. Engaging with these individuals can provide insights into the challenges and expectations of the role, which can be invaluable during discussions with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples from your past experiences that showcase your leadership skills and strategic thinking in safeguarding. Highlighting your ability to influence at a board level while supporting frontline staff will set you apart as a candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Sense's current safeguarding policies and initiatives, particularly their approach to diversity and inclusion. Being able to speak knowledgeably about their values and how you can contribute to their mission will show your genuine interest in the organisation.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Safeguarding
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take the time to thoroughly read the job description and person specification. Understand the key responsibilities and required qualifications for the Head of Safeguarding position at Sense.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in safeguarding, social care, and education legislation. Emphasise your leadership skills and any previous roles that demonstrate your ability to influence at a strategic level.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for safeguarding and your commitment to diversity and inclusion. Use specific examples from your past experiences to illustrate how you align with Sense's values and mission.
Complete the Application Form Thoroughly: When filling out the online application form, ensure that all sections are completed in full. Pay attention to detail and provide clear, concise answers that reflect your understanding of the role and your suitability for it.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sense
✨Understand the Organisation's Values
Before your interview, take some time to research Sense and its core values. Understanding their commitment to safeguarding and inclusion will help you align your responses with their mission during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your deep knowledge of social care and education legislation. Highlight specific examples from your past experience that demonstrate your ability to lead safeguarding initiatives effectively.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
As a strategic leader, it's crucial to show how you can work collaboratively with both frontline staff and senior leaders. Prepare examples of how you've successfully influenced teams and driven change in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your approach to real-life safeguarding scenarios. Think about how you would handle serious case reviews or implement trauma-informed practices, and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
