Head of Health and Safety and Risk

This is a senior leadership role within the Governance Support Team, providing Trustwide oversight of health and safety, risk management and safer moving and handling. Reporting to the Director of Governance, the postholder will play a key role in supporting safe, high quality care through effective governance, assurance and risk management arrangements. The role combines strategic leadership with professional expertise. You will work closely with Executive Directors, senior leaders and clinical teams to ensure that risks are clearly understood and managed, and that health and safety responsibilities are embedded across the organisation. You will contribute to a positive, learning focused safety culture, providing credible advice and assurance at Trust and committee level. This is an opportunity to influence at scale, shape governance practice, and make a measurable impact on staff safety, patient safety and organisational resilience within a complex NHS organisation., The postholder will lead the Trust's approach to health and safety and risk management, ensuring that effective systems are in place to identify, assess and manage risk at all levels. This includes overseeing specialist teams and ensuring clear governance, escalation and assurance arrangements are maintained. You will work with senior leaders and service groups to provide expert advice on complex risk and health and safety issues, supporting improvement planning and consistent application of policy and legislation. The role involves translating complex information into clear, meaningful insight for Trust committees and the Board. The postholder will oversee the development and ongoing use of key governance tools, including risk registers and assurance frameworks, and will support a culture of openness, learning and accountability. You will also contribute to wider governance priorities, working collaboratively with colleagues across patient safety, quality and corporate governance functions.

At Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, we're committed to supporting our employees with a range of benefits designed to enhance your professional and personal life. We offer, Why Somerset? Somerset offers the perfect blend of idyllic countryside, outstanding areas of natural beauty, and breathtaking coastlines, with vibrant cities like Bristol, Bath, and Exeter just a short drive away - and only two hours to London. The region is home to excellent educational facilities, and with affordable housing compared to other parts of the country, it's a great place to build both your career and your future. Somerset truly has it all - the peaceful countryside and cosmopolitan city life, with something for everyone to enjoy.

• Flexible working options to help you balance work and life
• NHS pension scheme for long-term financial security
• Generous annual leave allowance to recharge and relax
• A strong focus on career development to help you grow and achieve your potential
Additionally, you'll gain access to our Blue Light Card, unlocking exclusive discounts on shopping, dining, and leisure activities, as well as NHS-specific perks to support you both inside and outside of work.