Locum Safeguarding Team Manager

Children’s Team Manager – Adoption

Location: Durham County Council

Contract Type: Locum / Temporary

Salary: £negotiable

Start Date: ASAP

About the Role

Durham County Council is seeking an experienced and motivated Adoption Team Manager to join our dedicated Adoption Service. Working alongside another Team Manager, you will play a pivotal role in leading two well-established adoption teams, driving performance, and shaping the continued development of adoption practice across the county.

Main Responsibilities

 
• Provide effective leadership and management across two adoption teams, ensuring high standards of performance and quality service delivery.
   

• Work collaboratively with the existing Adoption Team Manager to deliver consistent management, supervision, and support to social work staff.
   

• Act as the Adoption Panel Advisor, ensuring the panel operates effectively and in line with statutory guidance and best practice.
   

• Quality assure all Stage 2 adoption assessments to maintain consistency, accuracy, and adherence to legal and ethical frameworks.
   

• Lead and contribute to the ongoing development of adoption services, identifying and implementing improvements that enhance outcomes for children and families.
   

• Oversee specialist areas of practice, including Access to Records and Non-Agency Adoption.
   

• Support the professional development of staff, fostering a culture of learning, reflection, and continuous improvement.
   

• Collaborate with internal partners, regional adoption agencies, and external stakeholders to ensure joined-up, effective service delivery.
   

• Monitor and evaluate service performance against local and national targets, ensuring compliance with Ofsted standards and relevant legislation.

Requirements

 
• Essential qualification: Social Work Degree, DipSW, CQSW, CSS, or equivalent.
   

• Registration: Registered with Social Work England.
   

• Minimum of 3 years’ post-qualifying experience in adoption, with a strong understanding of adoption legislation, assessment, and matching processes.
   

• Proven management or supervisory experience within children’s social care.
   

• Excellent leadership, communication, and organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities effectively.
   

• Strong commitment to improving outcomes for children and adoptive families.

Why Join?

This is a fantastic opportunity to take a leading role within a forward-thinking local authority committed to delivering excellence in adoption services. You’ll work collaboratively with an experienced management team, influence service development, and contribute to lasting, positive change for children and families across County Durham.

Interested? Apply today to join Durham County Council’s dedicated Adoption Service and help shape the future of adoption practice.