Job Title: Independent Chair - Children's Services
Main Purpose of the Role
Myn, on behalf of our client, is seeking an experienced Independent Chair to oversee statutory reviews for Children in Care, Child Protection Conferences, and Child in Need meetings. The role involves monitoring, rigorously assessing, and scrutinising the local authority's planning and support for children in care, those subject to child protection plans, and children in need. You will provide independent challenge where planning does not meet children's needs and chair strategy meetings related to allegations against adults who work with children.
Key Duties
Monitoring and Assessment
Rigorously monitor, assess, and challenge, where necessary, the quality and effectiveness of local authority assessments, planning, and support for children in care (including pathway plans), those subject to child protection plans, and children in need.
Independent Chairing
Act as an independent chair for Child Protection Conferences, statutory reviews for Children in Care, Child in Need reviews, and other meetings as requested by the Head of Service.
Consultation and Decision-Making
Consult with children in care to determine necessary actions to meet their needs, ensuring that their views are fully understood and taken into account. Make recommendations for achieving outcomes and endorse care plans.
Advocacy and Challenge
Act as a responsible adult for identified children and young people, advocating on their behalf and challenging decisions or actions taken by the local authority that may not align with appropriate care planning and support arrangements.
Ensure children are informed about how an advocate could support them and their entitlement to one.
Ensure children, where appropriate, understand their right to apply for various legal orders.
Refer unresolved disputes to CAFCASS for resolution within the Family Court.
Reporting and Best Practice
Monitor, review, and report both best and poor practices within Children's Services to the Lead Member for Children and Young People and the Strategic Director for Children's Services. Use formal or informal channels to resolve complaints.
Escalation of Concerns
Report unresolved concerns to senior managers, the Strategic Director for Children's Services, or the Chief Executive of the Council for resolution.
If you have the required skills and experience to support and advocate for children, ensuring their needs are met and rights protected, we would love to hear from you.
Myn is an equal opportunities Employment Agency & Business. We positively encourage applications from all suitably qualified and eligible candidates.