Team Manager

Southend-on-Sea City Council is seeking an experienced Locum Team Manager to lead their Care Proceedings Team. This is a key leadership role within the children's social care service, overseeing complex court work and ensuring high-quality, timely outcomes for children subject to care proceedings.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic and operational leadership to a team managing care proceedings and pre-proceedings cases

• Ensure compliance with court timelines, legislation, and best practice guidance

• Oversee the quality and consistency of assessments, court reports, and care planning

• Support staff through supervision, performance management, and reflective practice

• Liaise with legal services, CAFCASS, and other key stakeholders to coordinate court processes

• Drive service improvements and uphold a child-centred approach in all decision-making

Requirements:

• SWE registration

• Significant management experience in a court or safeguarding team

• Strong knowledge of public law proceedings, the Children Act, and PLO processes

• Excellent leadership, analytical, and organisational skills