At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop the Front Door service for children's safeguarding in Plymouth.
- Company: Local government client dedicated to child welfare and community support.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to continuous improvement and child-centred practices.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while leading a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Qualified social worker with strong leadership skills and experience in safeguarding.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
We're looking for a Front Door Service Manager - Children's Services for a local government client in Plymouth, Devon. To lead and develop the Front Door service during a period of transformation, ensuring timely, high-quality responses to contacts, referrals, and safeguarding concerns so children receive the right help at the right time. You will drive improvements in practice standards, decision-making, and risk management, including Section 17 and Section 47 interventions, in line with the Children Act 1989, Children Act 2004, and Working Together to Safeguard Children. Three days each week are required.
Responsibilities
- The role will focus on strengthening a consistent, child-centred practice model, supporting and developing staff capability, and embedding a culture of reflective supervision and continuous improvement.
- You will lead a multi-agency team within a MASH environment, build strong partnerships across health, police, and education, and ensure performance meets statutory timescales.
Knowledge & Experience Requirements
- Must have substantial experience in this field.
- Proven experience in managing staff and budgets.
- Substantial experience of working with children in Care and Care Leavers within the statutory, independent or third sector.
- In-depth knowledge in associated areas of management, e.g. adult services, mental health, disability, performance and financial management.
- Knowledge of legislation and statutory guidance relevant to working in children’s services.
- Knowledge of key childcare and child protection research and assessment frameworks.
- Knowledge of vision and priorities, and how it contributes to their achievement.
- In-depth knowledge of legislation relating to Data Protection and Freedom of Information.
Qualification Essential
- GCSE Grade (or equivalent) in English Language and Mathematics.
- Degree in Social Work or equivalent with significant post-qualification front-door services experience, plus evidence of CPD and Social Work England registration.
- Advanced Microsoft Office, Word, Excel, Outlook, Social Media and CRM.
Essential Compliance Requirements
- 5 years' reference, including current employment.
- Enhanced DBS & barred list check (Child & adult).
- Willing to engage in the mandatory pre‑screening application process.
Service Manager - Front Door Children's Services. Job in Plymouth LilyLifestyle Jobs employer: United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia
As a leading public-sector provider in Plymouth, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that champions a supportive and inclusive work culture. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through continuous professional development opportunities and a focus on reflective supervision, ensuring that our staff are equipped to deliver high-quality services to children and families. Join us in making a meaningful impact within the community while enjoying the benefits of a collaborative and dynamic team environment.
Contact Details:
United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Service Manager - Front Door Children's Services. Job in Plymouth LilyLifestyle Jobs
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the children's services sector, especially those who might know about opportunities at local government levels. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the latest trends and challenges in children's services. Show that you’re not just a candidate but someone who’s genuinely passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and families.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance of landing that Service Manager role. We make it easy for you to showcase your skills and experience directly to employers looking for talent like yours!
We think you need these skills to ace Service Manager - Front Door Children's Services. Job in Plymouth LilyLifestyle Jobs
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Front Door Service Manager role. Highlight your experience in children's services, especially around safeguarding and decision-making, to show us you’re the right fit for this transformation period.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:We want to see your leadership style! Share examples of how you've developed staff capability and driven service improvements in your previous roles. This will help us understand how you can lead our multi-agency team effectively.
Demonstrate Your Knowledge:Familiarise yourself with the relevant legislation and statutory guidance, like the Children Act 1989 and 2004. We’re looking for candidates who can navigate these frameworks confidently, so don’t hesitate to mention your knowledge in your application.
Apply Through Our Website:To make sure your application gets to us directly, apply through our website. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia
✨Know Your Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the Children Act 1989 and 2004, as well as the Working Together to Safeguard Children guidelines. Being able to discuss these in detail will show your understanding of the legal framework that underpins the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, especially in challenging situations. Highlight your experience in driving service improvements and how you’ve supported staff development to create a child-centred practice model.
✨Demonstrate Multi-Agency Collaboration
Be ready to talk about your experience working with various agencies like health, police, and education. Share specific instances where you built strong partnerships and how those collaborations improved outcomes for children.
✨Reflect on Continuous Improvement
Think about how you’ve implemented reflective supervision and continuous improvement in your previous roles. Discuss any frameworks or strategies you’ve used to enhance practice standards and decision-making processes.
