Job description

3 months contract with a Local Authority

Job Summary:

• An experienced Deputy Head of Service (DHoS) – Access & Safeguarding is required for a senior interim role within the Adults, Health & Integration service.

• The postholder will provide strategic leadership and operational oversight of adult social care safeguarding services and access functions.

• The role is based in London and will support the local authority in ensuring the delivery of high-quality, compliant services for vulnerable adults.

Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample):

• Provide senior leadership for safeguarding and access services across adult social care.

• Oversee safeguarding referrals, case management, and compliance with statutory duties under the Care Act 2014.

• Manage frontline teams responsible for access to services, including initial contact, screening, and triage.

• Ensure that safeguarding investigations are undertaken in line with legal frameworks and best practice.

• Lead on service improvement initiatives and ensure performance targets are met or exceeded.

• Collaborate with internal and external partners, including NHS bodies, voluntary sector providers, and housing services.

• Provide senior management input into Safeguarding Adults Boards and multi-agency panels.

• Develop and maintain policies and procedures relating to safeguarding, information sharing, and adult protection.

• Contribute to the strategic planning and delivery of integrated care pathways.

• Support the Head of Service with reporting, budget oversight, and workforce planning.

Skills/Experience:

• Extensive post-qualification experience in adult social care and safeguarding.

• Proven track record in senior leadership roles within local government or statutory services.

• Strong working knowledge of the Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act, and Making Safeguarding Personal (MSP) principles.

• Experience managing multidisciplinary teams in access, safeguarding, or adult protection settings.

• Ability to analyse data and lead on service development and improvement.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including experience engaging with stakeholders at all levels.

• Demonstrable skills in risk assessment, crisis management, and compliance monitoring.

• Up-to-date knowledge of safeguarding frameworks, policies, and best practice.

• Health & Safety training and knowledge of relevant legislation affecting adult services.

Additional Information:

• The closing date: TODAY 16/10/2025.

• Qualified Social Worker with current registration (Social Work England / HCPC equivalent).

• Working Hours: Full-time (typically 36 hours per week).

• Compliance Requirement: Enhanced DBS and compliance documentation required.

Deputy Head of Service

Job description

Karina Nazarenko