Head of Safeguarding & QA

Head of Safeguarding & Quality Assurance
South West local authority
2‑month contract | Start ASAP
£500–£550 per day
Inside IR35 (via umbrella)
Hybrid working (2 days on site)

CVs are being reviewed immediately and interviews will be taking place week commencing 25 May 2026.

Step into a pivotal leadership role where your expertise will directly influence the safety, quality and outcomes for children and young people across a complex multi‑agency landscape. As Head of Safeguarding & Quality Assurance you will report into the Director of Children and Families and play a central role in shaping, challenging and improving safeguarding practice at both strategic and operational level. This is a high‑impact contract with immediate visibility, clear priorities and the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy within a short timeframe. You will be trusted as a senior safeguarding authority, advising leaders and partners, driving quality assurance, and ensuring that the voice of children and young people is embedded in everything you do. With inspections, performance and partnership effectiveness firmly in focus, this is a role for someone who thrives on pace, influence and accountability.

Your role as Head of Safeguarding & Quality Assurance

• Lead safeguarding quality assurance systems that drive high standards of practice for vulnerable children and those in care
• Provide expert safeguarding advice across the council and multi‑agency partnership, influencing strategic decision‑making
• Use performance data and ICS insight to challenge practice, set targets and plan focused inspection activity
• Strengthen multi‑agency partnership working, ensuring statutory responsibilities are delivered to a high standard
• Champion the voice of children and young people, ensuring it shapes service delivery and improvement activity

Your previous experience as  Head of Safeguarding & Quality Assurance

• Senior‑level safeguarding experience within children’s services, ideally in a local authority setting
• Proven inspection and improvement leadership, with confidence managing readiness, responses and outcomes
• Strong understanding of quality assurance frameworks, performance management and practice auditing
• Experience influencing complex stakeholder environments, including elected members and partner agencies
• Credibility as a leader and advisor, able to challenge constructively and drive measurable improvement

This is a fast‑moving opportunity with an immediate start, offering autonomy, influence and the chance to make a tangible difference quickly. If you are ready to step into a visible leadership role and deliver impact from day one, this Head of Safeguarding  & Quality Assurance contract is ready for you.

If you’re interested in discussing this opportunity in more detail or know someone who may be a strong fit, please contact Sarah Macrae on 0117 313 7110 or apply today.
(A senior referral scheme is available upon successful placement of your recommendation.)
Our clients are committed to building a diverse workforce. Recruiting decisions are based on experience and skills, and any reasonable adjustments will be fully supported throughout the application and hiring process.

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