Description
We are seeking an experienced and strategic Designated Social Care Officer (DSCO) to play a pivotal role in shaping and driving the social care elements of Barnet’s Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) agenda.
As the DSCO, you will lead the development and implementation of social care priorities within the local authority's SEND Strategy, ensuring compliance and supporting the delivery of high-quality outcomes for children and young people with SEND and their families.
This is a highly influential role, providing expert leadership, intelligence, and insight to inform the direction of SEND services across the council. You will use your extensive knowledge of both social care and the SEND reforms agenda to strengthen practice, identify opportunities for improvement, and develop innovative solutions to complex challenges.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide strategic leadership for the social care elements of the SEND Strategy across the local authority.
- Ensure compliance with statutory requirements and best practice guidance relating to SEND and social care.
- Influence and shape the development of wider SEND services through analysis, intelligence, and professional expertise.
- Drive continuous improvement by strengthening social care practice and developing effective solutions to emerging issues.
- Build, maintain, and nurture strong partnerships with colleagues, schools, health partners, families, and other key stakeholders.
- Champion co-production, ensuring children, young people, and families are actively involved in shaping services.
- Act as the council's expert adviser on SEND reforms and social care, keeping abreast of national developments and evidence-based practice.
Requirements:
- Significant knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice and the national SEND reforms agenda.
- Extensive experience within children's social care and/or SEND services.
- A strong understanding of statutory responsibilities relating to SEND and social care.
- Excellent relationship-management, influencing, and negotiation skills.
- Experience of leading change, service improvement, and partnership working across organisational boundaries.
- The ability to analyse complex information and use insight to inform strategic decision-making.
- A commitment to co-production and person-centred approaches.
What we offer:
- 31 days annual leave, plus public and bank holidays
- Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme
- A comprehensive Flexible Working Policy
- A vast range of lifestyle discounts
- Broad range of payroll benefits
- Excellent training and development opportunities
- Employee well-being training programs