St Helens is a modernising Council which is passionate and ambitious for the children and families we support, our communities and our workforce. As part of our transformation journey, we continue to build on our progress and put children firmly at the centre of our care. We can only do this because of our highly valued, skilled, and supported workforce.

We are incredibly proud of our Children’s Services improvement journey, which has seen our Ofsted rating go from ‘Inadequate’ in 2019 to ‘Good’ with outstanding features in 2024.

We are committed to making a difference to the lives of children and young people who live in the borough. To do so we need to build on the positive momentum of the last five years and ensure we continue to improve outcomes for all children, whilst tackling deprivation and child poverty and protecting children from vulnerable backgrounds.

As Director of Children & Young People’s Services you will play a key part in the council’s senior leadership team and will be responsible for the full range of services to the children & young people of the borough.

We’re seeking an inspirational leader with significant senior management experience within local government children’s services. You’ll have a proven track record and a passion for making a positive difference and improving outcomes for children. You’ll also have excellent partnership skills, a strong political understanding, and the ability to deliver results.

As the statutory DCS, you will drive our children’s services ongoing journey, supported by the council’s senior leadership team, political leaders, and Cabinet. This is an exceptional opportunity to join a vibrant and energetic senior leadership team, for someone who wants to make a real difference to the children, young people and families across our borough.

We are a strong, resilient council that respects and values the individuality and diversity that every employee brings to the organisation. We strive to create a positive, open and inclusive working environment.

For an informal discussion about the role with our interim DCS or Chief Executive please contact michellebirchall@sthelens.gov.uk

St Helens Council is a Disability Confident Leader: The Council guarantees an interview to disabled applicants who demonstrate that they meet the essential criteria for the job, as detailed on the Person Specification, and will, for qualifying disabled candidates, make reasonable adjustments within the interview/selection process. Disability Confident Leaders lead the way in helping to take action that changes attitudes, behaviours, and cultures for the better.

Equality & Diversity: We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds, who share our values, our commitment to inclusion, and who will help us on our journey to transform our organisation. Further information about Equality & Diversity at St Helens Borough Council can be found here https://www.sthelens.gov.uk/equality.

Closing date: 24 March 2025.

To apply please click the Apply Now link below.