Head of Service – Adults, Learning and Disability Team

Job Description

Head of Service – Adults, Learning and Disability Team

Location: Dorchester (Hybrid – 2 days in the office)

Rate: £650 per day (Inside IR35)

Contract: 3–6 months

Hours: 37 per week

We are seeking an experienced Head of Service to provide strategic and operational leadership within the Adults Learning and Disability Team. This is a senior role overseeing statutory social work services, ensuring compliance with national legislation including the Children Act 1989 and the Care Act 2014.

As a visible leader, you will drive service improvements, shape outcomes, and set the highest standards of practice to support vulnerable adults, children, young people, and their families. The role requires strong partnership working, safeguarding oversight, and a clear focus on prevention and early help strategies.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and direction across allocated services and professionals.
• Safeguard and promote the welfare of vulnerable adults and children.
• Make professional decisions on complex cases within set timescales.
• Line manage operational managers and oversee large staff groups.
• Ensure services meet statutory requirements and regulatory standards.
• Contribute to strategic planning and partnership work with communities, agencies, and the voluntary sector.
• Oversee performance management, budgets, and service delivery outcomes.
• Lead on workforce development, service improvement, and governance of complex/high-risk cases.
• Write and deliver reports, service plans, and work plans as required.
• Deputise for senior leaders where necessary, influencing wider council strategies and policy.

Requirements

• Degree-level education.
• Diploma in Social Work / CQSW.
• HCPC registration.
• Evidence of ongoing professional development.
• Safeguarding Board training.
• Demonstrated experience of strategic leadership within social care services.
• Strong financial and performance management skills.

This is a challenging but rewarding role for a proven leader who can shape and deliver high-quality services for adults with learning disabilities while contributing to wider social care strategies.

To find out more information please contact Lily at Lilye@4recruitmentservices.com

Recruitment is done in line with safe recruitment practices. We are an equal opportunity agency.