Designated Social Care Officer

6 months contract with a local authority Rate: £50 per hour umbrella Summary This 6-month contract role with a local authority offers a rate of £50 per hour under an umbrella arrangement. The Designated Social Care Officer (DSCO) will provide strategic leadership and specialist expertise in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) within Children's Social Care.

The role is crucial in ensuring high-quality social care contributions to Education, Health and Care Needs Assessments (EHCNAs) and Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). The DSCO will promote statutory compliance, drive continuous improvement, and support the development of integrated services to enhance outcomes for children and young people with SEND.

Responsibilities

Ensure the quality of social care advice, assessments, and contributions to EHCNAs and EHCPs. Monitor and enhance the quality, consistency, and timeliness of social care input in SEND statutory processes. Identify non-compliance areas and service weaknesses, implementing improvement plans as needed. Lead and support audit, performance management, self-evaluation, and quality assurance activities to ensure readiness for inspections.

Develop and deliver training, workshops, and professional learning opportunities related to SEND legislation, policy, and best practices.

Requirements

Significant experience in Children's Social Care, SEND services, or a related statutory environment. Experience with Education, Health and Care Needs Assessments (EHCNAs) and Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). A Social Work qualification (Degree, DipSW, CQSW, or equivalent). Registration with Social Work England.

Evidence of continuous professional development. Additional Information Working hours are 37 hours per week. An enhanced DBS with a barred list is required. Working arrangements include 1-2 days in the office, with the remaining days home-based. The role operates on a bi-weekly payment schedule. The application deadline is approaching, so apply as soon as possible.