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We are seeking an experienced and committed Head of Service to lead a Family Safeguarding Team within a children’s social care service in Somerset. This is an influential role for a qualified social work professional who can provide strong, visible leadership and ensure children, young people and families receive effective, strengths-based support.

You will be responsible for the operational management and development of the Family Safeguarding Team, promoting high standards of practice, sound professional judgement and positive outcomes for children. Working closely with service managers, social workers and partner agencies, you will help embed a collaborative approach that keeps children’s voices, safety and wellbeing at the centre of decision-making.

Key responsibilities will include providing professional leadership and direction; overseeing the quality and timeliness of assessments, plans and interventions; monitoring performance and managing risk; and ensuring practice complies with statutory requirements, relevant guidance and safeguarding procedures. You will also support workforce development, contribute to service improvement activity and ensure learning from audits, reviews and feedback is translated into practice.

The successful candidate will hold a recognised social work qualification and current registration with Social Work England. You will have substantial post-qualification experience in children’s social care, including experience of safeguarding, child protection and working with families facing complex challenges. Experience of managing social work teams, leading change and improving practice within a family safeguarding or multi-disciplinary setting would be highly desirable.

You will be an inspiring and accountable leader with excellent communication, decision-making and partnership-working skills. A thorough understanding of statutory children’s services, quality assurance and risk management is essential, alongside the ability to motivate staff and create a culture of reflective practice and continuous improvement.

This is an excellent opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to children and families while helping shape high-quality, integrated safeguarding services. A commitment to equality, inclusion and relationship-based practice is essential.