Jobs

The Durham Safeguarding Children Partnership (DSCP) is committed to creating the safest possible environment for our children and young people so that they can flourish and achieve their potential.
To support the critical work of the partnership the DSCP is seeking to appoint an Independent Scrutineer with the passion, vision, and commitment to strengthen and develop the work of the partnership.
This appointment is for a three-year tenure and is covered by IR35 arrangements.
It is expected that the post holder will undertake approximately 15 – 20 days of scrutiny activity per year.
 
WHAT IS INVOLVED?
The Independent Scrutineer will support the DSCPs vision of ‘keeping children safe’ through prevention and early intervention, a joined-up response and by listening to children and families and ensuring their voices are heard through the work of the partnership. Improving outcomes and maximising impact for our children, young people and families through tenacity, curiosity and openness will embed a culture of continuous learning.

You will work alongside a highly committed number of partner agencies including Education and the Voluntary and Community Sector and a well-staffed business unit.
 
WHAT WILL I NEED?
Applicants should have a relevant academic and/or professional qualification or demonstration of equivalent senior level experience in a safeguarding children context.

This role requires an outstanding individual with proven experience of challenge, scrutinising activities, report writing and presentation to provide recommendations for improvement

The successful candidate will need to evidence they can:

• Analyse complex information and provide robust scrutiny and challenge.
• Have the ability to ensure all partner agencies in Durham collaborate. effectively to safeguard children, promote their welfare and improve outcomes.
• Demonstrate understanding of safeguarding practice and systems, including responsibilities laid out in Working Together to Safeguard Children 2026 and the Families First Partnership Guide 2026.
• Consistently provide transformational leadership and strategic vision.
• Demonstrate excellent challenge, negotiation and influencing skills.
• Demonstrate experience in building and maintaining productive partnerships.
• Work with children and families to ensure their voice and lived experience is considered as part of scrutiny and this informs policy and practice 

For an informal discussion about the role please contact Paula Mather Business Manager paula.mather2@durham.gov.uk

The Independent Scrutineer is accountable to the Safeguarding Partners.

• Corporate Director of Children and Young People’s Service – Durham County Council
• Detective Chief Superintendent – Durham Constabulary
• Director of Nursing – Integrated Care Board 

For further information on the duties and specification of the role see the attached document.

The successful candidate will require an Enhanced DBS.
 
HOW TO APPLY?
In line with the County Council's Recruitment and Selection Policy, please note that we are unable to accept CVs. Applications must be submitted on-line via the Northeast Jobs portal.

Please use the ‘Person Specification’ section of your application form to demonstrate that you have the essential and where possible, desirable experience, skills, and knowledge. Candidates who do not evidence that they meet the essential qualifications and experience listed on the person specification will not be short-listed.

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Company: Durham County Council

Salary: £500 per day (i.e. 7.5 hours), 15-20 days per year- any further days are at the agreement of Safeguarding Partners

Location: Durham, Durham

Sector: Education

Job Role: Teaching Assistant