Service Manager – Family Help and Child Protection
We’re seeking an experienced and values‑led Service Manager to provide strategic and operational leadership across Family Help and Child Protection services at Milton Keynes City Council. This pivotal leadership role drives integrated practice, strong partnership working and high‑quality outcomes so that children are safe and families are supported to thrive.
Responsibilities
* Provide visible leadership and management oversight across Family Help, Multi‑Agency Child Protection and Contextual Safeguarding services, ensuring safe, effective and timely practice.
* Lead change, co‑design and practice development aligned to the Child First, Family Led approach, driving high standards in assessment, planning and direct work.
* Develop and maintain strong partnerships with Police, Health and other agencies, contributing to and chairing multi‑agency forums where required.
* Ensure statutory duties and safeguarding guidance are applied effectively, including the Children Act 1989 and 2004.
* Oversee performance management, audit activity, risk management and service improvement, using data and feedback to improve outcomes and reduce demand escalation.
* Line‑manage Team Managers and oversee resources, including workforce development, recruitment, retention, budgets and inspection readiness.
Ideal Candidate
* A qualified social worker with current Social Work England registration.
* An experienced leader with significant post‑qualifying experience in children and families social work, including substantial management experience and a strong track record of improving practice and outcomes.
* Highly knowledgeable about safeguarding, statutory responsibilities and assessment frameworks.
* Confident in delivering robust supervision and quality assurance, using audit, performance information and feedback to drive improvement.
* Able to manage competing priorities, risk and resources in a complex operational environment.
* A clear and confident communicator who works effectively with colleagues, partners, children and families.
* Someone whose approach reflects our values of being dedicated, respectful and collaborative.
Requirements
* Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.
* Evidence of driving licence and vehicle insurance covering business use required before appointment can be confirmed.
* Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check (unless you are currently registered with the DBS Update Service).
Benefits
* 28 days annual leave (increases to 32 days after five years) plus public holidays; holiday purchase scheme allows up to 5 additional days per year.
* National Local Government Pension Scheme.
* Family‑friendly policies including enhanced maternity, adoption and paternity support and a childcare subsidy.
* Health cash plan, low‑cost bike purchase scheme, discounts on entertainment, travel and high‑street shopping.
* Salary‑sacrifice car scheme – low‑cost leasing of electric and low‑emission vehicles.
* Blue Light Card – additional discounts for employees working within social care.
About the Organisation
Milton Keynes City Council is a large, modern and financially stable employer with around 2,500 people working across eight areas. We provide local residents and businesses with a wide range of services and aim to make our city a better place to live.
Interview Information
Interviews for this role will be held on 15 June.
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