Head of Children in Care & Care Leavers

Head of Children in Care, Care Leavers & UASC
3–6 month contract | Immediate start
£550–£600 per day
Inside IR35 (via umbrella)
Hybrid working

CVs are being reviewed immediately and interviews will be taking place week commencing 22nd June 2026

Are you ready to step into a pivotal leadership role where your impact will be felt across the entire service? As Head of Children in Care, you will report directly into senior leadership and take ownership of high-performing teams delivering critical services across Through Care, Leaving Care and UASC. In this Head of Children in Care position, you will lead strategy, drive service improvement and ensure exceptional outcomes for vulnerable young people – this is your opportunity to shape services at pace and leave a lasting legacy.

Your role as Head of Children in Care, Care Leavers & UASC:

• Drive strategic leadership across Children in Care, Leaving Care and UASC services
  • Ensure statutory compliance with Children Act legislation and inspection readiness
  • Oversee Pathway Plans, housing, and transitions to independence
  • Lead strong partnership working with health, education and external agencies
  • Champion quality, workforce development and trauma-informed practice

Your experience as Head of Children in Care, Care Leavers & UASC:

• Proven senior leadership experience within Local Authority Children’s Social Care
  • In-depth knowledge of looked-after children, leaving care and UASC services
  • Strong grasp of legislation, safeguarding and corporate parenting
  • Track record of delivering service improvement and high performance
  • Ability to lead, motivate and develop multi-disciplinary teams

This Head of Children in Care opportunity offers you the chance to step into a high-impact role quickly, influence strategic direction and work within a forward-thinking environment that values strong leadership and innovation. If you’re a confident, experienced leader ready to hit the ground running, this role is not one to miss.

If you’re interested in discussing this opportunity in more detail or know someone who this may be of interest to, please contact the team on 0117 3137110 or apply today.

(We offer a senior referral scheme upon successful placement of your recommendation so please do get in contact)

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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