Designated Social Care Officer

The post holder will lead strategically in framing and developing social care elements of the SEND Strategy across the local authority, in compliance with legislative requirements of the SEND Code of Practice (2015). The role will inform and influence the direction of wider SEND services and support the Local Area Nominated Officer and Designated Clinical Officer in building capacity and local collaboration to support the cultural change required to develop SEND reforms across Health, Education and Children's Services. We are looking for someone who will deliver improvement through system development, service improvement projects and reviews working with managers and staff in Children and Young People's Services. Lead and support the workforce and their development, and work with a wide range of colleagues across not only Children and Young People's Services but also partners to ensure improvement and impact can be demonstrated through effective planning and joined up service delivery. The candidate will be a source of expert professional advice on SEND relating to social care within the service and County and the post holder should demonstrate a clear commitment and passion for improving outcomes for children and young people with SEND. The post holder will have the ability to negotiate and influence others, build and nurture effective partnerships and work collaboratively with a range of stakeholders and exploit opportunities for co-production.

This is a unique opportunity, and we are looking for a post holder with an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the social care and SEND agenda. Someone who can identify areas for improvement, agree and implement service transformation and practice improvement to ensure the best possible outcomes for vulnerable children and their families specifically those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).,

• Educated to degree level in a related subject (social care field) OR
• Professional qualification to Degree Standard in Social Work, Teaching, Health or Youth WorkOR
• Management qualification to level 5 or equivalent
• Proven commitment to Professional Development.
If successful, you will be required to apply for a Disclosure and Barring Service Enhanced Disclosure.

We offer a competitive rewards package that includes attractive salaries, a generous annual leave entitlement of 27 days (rising to 32 after five years' continuous local government service), membership of the excellent contributory career average Local Government Pension Scheme, and a range of flexible working arrangements including hybrid working (home and office) where applicable. Explore the full range of rewards and benefits on our website Rewards and benefits are subject to individual terms and conditions.