Hamptons are proud to be supporting a local authority in the South-West, in the search of an Interim Service Manager for their IRO Service
The Role: Interim Service Manager – IRO Service
About You:
To lead and manage the IRO Service, ensuring that looked-after children and young people receive high-quality, timely reviews in line with statutory guidance.
The postholder will provide strategic oversight, ensure robust challenge and scrutiny within the service, and drive continuous improvement to promote better outcomes for children.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead and oversee the IRO service, ensuring statutory responsibilities under the Children Act 1989 and subsequent legislation are met.
Line manage a team of Independent Reviewing Officers, ensuring performance, supervision, and professional development are of a high standard.
Monitor and report on service performance and compliance with statutory timescales, escalating risks where necessary.
Ensure IROs offer appropriate challenge and escalation to improve outcomes for children in care.
Promote a child-focused approach that ensures the voice of the child is central to planning and decision-making.
Work closely with operational teams, senior leaders, and partner agencies to support effective care planning and permanence.
Contribute to strategic planning, inspection readiness, and quality assurance across children's services.
Review and implement service improvements, using data and audit findings to inform practice.
Represent the service at panels, strategic forums, and multi-agency meetings as required.
Person Specification:
Essential:
Qualified Social Worker with current Social Work England registration.
Substantial experience in children’s social care, including in management roles.
In-depth knowledge of statutory responsibilities of the IRO role and relevant legislation.
Proven track record in service leadership, performance improvement, and quality assurance.
Strong understanding of child protection, care planning, and looked-after children processes.
Ability to lead, inspire, and develop a team during a period of change.
Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
Desirable:
Previous experience managing or working within an IRO service.
Experience in preparing for and responding to Ofsted inspections.
Understanding of the impact of trauma and adversity on children in care.
What's On Offer: Start ASAP, a rate £450 per day for an initial 3 months. Hybrid working – 3 days onsite, 2 days remote working.
About The Client: The client is based in the South-West
Recruitment Timeline: Applications close on Tuesday 15th April 2025 at 4.00pm with interviews conducted via MS Teams.
To apply, please complete the below form and include an up to date CV.
Or for a confidential discussion about the role, please contact Marcus Hall on marcus@hamptonsresourcing.com or 01926 695224
Hamptons is passionate about equality, and is committed to developing an inclusive workforce. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant regardless ofyour individual needs. Any reasonable adjustments will be fully supported during the application and hiring process
Role Details
Type:
Location:
Sector:
Salary: Vacancy Id:9508
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