Job Description

Location:

Hackney, London

Salary:

Competitive (based on local authority scale)

Job Type:

Full-time | Permanent

Contact Email:

karn@oakwood24.co.uk

About the Role

Hackney Client is seeking an experienced and strategic

Deputy Head of Service (Access & Safeguarding)

to join the

Children, Adults & Community Health Directorate

.

This is a senior leadership role responsible for managing and improving the delivery of safeguarding and access services across Hackney. The postholder will ensure high standards of professional practice, timely responses to referrals, and effective multi-agency collaboration to protect and support vulnerable residents.

You will provide strong leadership to service managers, ensuring performance, quality, and compliance with statutory responsibilities under the

Care Act 2014

,

Children Act 1989

, and other safeguarding frameworks.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the operational management of Access & Safeguarding teams including Front Door, Duty, and Assessment services. Oversee referrals and assessments to ensure timely, safe, and effective responses. Provide professional leadership on complex safeguarding cases and risk management. Support the Head of Service in implementing strategic plans and driving service improvements. Manage performance, supervision, and workforce development across teams. Ensure compliance with statutory safeguarding duties, policy, and quality standards. Represent the service at multi-agency safeguarding boards (MASH, MARAC, MAPPA). Drive quality assurance and learning from audits, incidents, and serious case reviews. Deputise for the Head of Service as required.

About You

We are looking for a confident, experienced, and collaborative leader who can balance strategic oversight with operational excellence.

Essential criteria:

Qualified Social Worker (Social Work England registered) or equivalent management experience in statutory safeguarding. Strong knowledge of safeguarding legislation, policies, and best practice. Proven track record of managing teams within access, duty, or safeguarding services. Excellent leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills. Experience in performance management, service improvement, and multi-agency collaboration. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Desirable:

Experience working within a London local authority. Post-qualifying leadership or management training.

Why Work With Us

Competitive salary and benefits package. Opportunity to shape and lead high-impact safeguarding services. Supportive senior leadership team and collaborative working culture. Professional development and leadership training opportunities. Make a meaningful difference to the lives of children, families, and adults in Hackney.

How to Apply

If you're an experienced safeguarding professional ready for the next step in your leadership career, we'd love to hear from you.

Send your CV and supporting statement to:

karn@oakwood24.co.uk

Subject line:

Deputy Head of Service (Access & Safeguarding) - Hackney

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: Up to 300.00 per day

Work Location: In person