Following our recent full inspection by Ofsted we were delighted Blackburn with Darwen’s Children’s Services are officially - Good! Our glowing report recognises the dedication, compassion, and tireless commitment of everyone involved in supporting children, young people, and families across our borough with Inspectors describing the new leadership as ‘strong, highly visible and supportive, open, honest and respectful’ and praised its ‘injection of energy and pace’ that has brought about significant improvements in the service. They described the new leadership as ‘strong, highly visible and supportive, open, honest and respectful’ and praised its ‘injection of energy and pace’ that has brought about significant improvements in the service. We are looking for an ambitious and talented Deputy Director to be a part of this strong leadership team to continue our drive to outstanding. We are very proud to have such a dedicated and compassionate workforce in Children’s Services and the collaboration from the wider Council and partner agencies who want what is best for children and young people in the borough, like they would their own children. As the successful candidate, you will act as Deputy to the Strategic Director Children’s Services and Education, in particular covering the statutory responsibilities of DCS and representation with other strategic partners. You will also work alongside the Deputy Director of Education and other senior officers both within the department’s leadership team and wider council. We embrace a systemic approach to working with our families, which is flexible, and evidence based. This helps us to think about relationships within families and how these impact on the child. It also allows us to reflect on the relationships that we build both with families and with each other as professionals. Our new Deputy Director will lead, support and motivate our talented team so that they are part of a happy, inclusive and high performing culture. Candidates will need a social work qualification and senior management experience in children’s services – as well as a focus on the child and a passion to support our most vulnerable young people. If you would like an informal discussion about the role please contact joanne.siddle@blackburn.gov.uk Closing Date Thursday 22 May 2025 To apply please click the Apply Now link below.