DSCO for SEND Inspection

Designated Social Care Officer (DSCO)

Location: North West England (Hybrid – approx. 3 days on-site)
Contract Length: 3 months initially
Day Rate: £450/day (Inside IR35)
Start Date: Immediately

 
We are seeking an experienced Designated Social Care Officer (DSCO) with a strong Children’s Social Care background (not just SEND). This role is instrumental in progressing the local SEND and Children with Disabilities (CWD) agendas and ensuring readiness for an upcoming SEND Ofsted/CQC inspection.
 
Working closely with the Senior Manager for Cared for, Care Experienced and CWD, the DSCO will lead on aligning care services with the SEND framework and improving support pathways for children and young people.
 
 
Your role as a Designated Social Care Officer –
 

• Lead work to align Education, Health and Care (EHC) planning with improved social care outcomes
• Collaborate with partners to develop and review support pathways for children not known to social care
• Ensure clear thresholds for social care involvement are defined and followed
• Promote early identification of need and joint work with partners to support families
• Drive forward the SEND Local Offer, including co-production with families and service users
• Lead joint commissioning within statutory services (e.g. short breaks, direct payments)
• Ensure consistent advice and information is available at all levels
• Strengthen transition planning across the SEND and children’s frameworks
• Support the local authority’s self-evaluation and inspection preparation
   

 
Essential Criteria

• Qualified Social Worker
• Previous experience as a DSCO or Service Manager in Children’s Social Care
• In-depth knowledge of the SEND agenda
• Proven ability to lead strategically and work cross-functionally
• Available for on-site work in Carlisle 3 days/week
   

 
 If you meet the above criteria and would like to apply for this role, please email your updated CV to m.barry@baltimoreconsultingltd.com or call Maddison Barry on 0117 313 7110
 
Our clients are passionate about creating and evolving a diverse workforce and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant.  Recruiting decisions are based on your experience and skills.  Any reasonable adjustments in the workplace will be fully supported during the application and hiring process.

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