We’re Kirklees…are you?

In Kirklees we are focused on outcomes more than process and believe that to achieve the best outcomes for local citizens we need to be thinking “People, Place, Partners” and “working with rather than doing to.” We have a significant programme of investment in the physical infrastructure of our towns and villages that builds on our rich history. We are committed to an inclusive Kirklees and to ensuring that everyone benefits from improved outcomes.

Children and our services to young people are the heart of our vision and we are investing accordingly. Within our Children and Families Directorate, the council and its partners are responding to our challenges and are determined to deliver long-term change with pace, determination and focus. Improving outcomes for children and young people is our number one priority, and we have a rigorous and robust implementation plan to achieve this.

You will be responsible for ensuring our children and young people have outstanding homes that enable them to feel safe, loved and to thrive. This includes leading the team that ensures homes are provided for our children, both with foster carers and also residential homes. Working with the Head of Service for Psychosocial Support you will lead our multi-systemic therapy home to help our young people and families/carers to stay together. You will lead our short break provision developing innovation and ensuring our services are personalised for our children, young people and families. You will be an integral part of further developing and implementing our model of care for our children and young people, working closely with our Head of Service for Quality Assurance, to drive forward our vision and ambition to have outstanding children’s services.  You will also work closely with our Head of Children’s Integrated Commissioning to realise our ambitious capital delivery programme in relation to our children’s homes.

A strong understanding of children’s social care, ideally with operational experience in a children’s residential home  background, and a strong track record of forming excellent relationships with partners, service users and providers will be key to your success in this role. Equally important will be your values, attitude and approach, and the ability to work collaboratively with staff, partners, stakeholders and Elected Members and deliver excellent results. You will champion a high support and high challenge approach across our services and partnerships, developing a shared culture of reflection, learning and improvement.  You will need a proven track record that demonstrates your ability to build relationships and influence innovation in service delivery.

This is an exciting time to join Kirklees and you will have the opportunity to make a real difference to lives of children in our diverse and varied communities.

Financial support for relocation is available subject to meeting criteria.  

For an informal conversation please contact Tom Brailsford on 01484 221000.

Closing date  

07 November 2021, 11:55 PM

This job is subject to a DBS check at the appropriate level, please refer to the Job Description/Profile.  A conviction may not exclude candidates from appointment but will be considered as part of the recruitment process.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable adults and children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Important Information

Head of Service - Homes for Children.pdf – 204KB