Deputy Area Inclusion Lead

Service Care Solutions; Chatham; Hybrid; GBP 37,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent local authority is seeking a Deputy Area Inclusion Lead in Medway. This full-time hybrid position involves managing the EHC assessment process and ensuring compliance with statutory requirements. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, knowledge of SEND legislation, and experience in similar roles. Salary ranges from £37,732 to £43,695 annually, with a supportive working environment focused on collaboration and inclusion.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of effective EHCP and statutory assessment processes.
• Proven experience managing SEND processes within a local authority.

Responsibilities

• Manage the statutory EHC assessment process across all age groups.
• Ensure EHCPs are comprehensive and aspirational.
• Provide quality assurance and mentor assessment officers.

Skills

Leadership capabilities

Excellent communication skills

Organizational skills

Knowledge of SEND legislation

Job description

Overview

Deputy Area Inclusion Lead (Assessment Team) - Permanent | Full Time | Hybrid (3 days office-based)

Salary: £37,732 - £43,695 per annum | Location: Medway

About the Role

Medway Council is seeking a proactive and experienced Deputy Assessment Hub Lead - EHC (Senior EHC Coordinator) to join our dedicated Inclusion team. This is a key leadership position where you will support the Team Manager in overseeing the Education, Health and Care Needs Assessment (EHCNA) process, ensuring statutory timelines are met and that high-quality Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) are delivered in line with the SEND Code of Practice.

This role offers an exciting opportunity to make a tangible difference in improving outcomes for children and young people with SEND, while shaping and driving forward best practice within the service.

Responsibilities

• Support the Team Manager in managing the 20-week statutory EHC assessment process across all age groups, from Early Years to Post-16.
• Ensure EHCPs are comprehensive, aspirational, and outcome-focused.
• Provide quality assurance for plans and support officers in maintaining high standards of practice.
• Promote effective use of the SEND case management system, ensuring accurate and timely updates.
• Work collaboratively with multi-agency partners to ensure delivery of identified outcomes.
• Support, supervise, and mentor assessment officers, offering guidance and expertise.
• Manage a small caseload of complex cases requiring your specialist knowledge.
• Monitor and review timelines to ensure compliance with statutory processes.
• Advise colleagues, service users, and partner agencies on SEND legislation and best practice.
• Contribute to the inclusion agenda, ensuring appropriate placements that meet individual pupil needs.

About You

We are looking for someone who can bring leadership, expertise, and commitment to SEND services. You will have:

• A strong understanding of what makes an effective EHCP and the statutory assessment process.
• Proven experience supporting or managing SEND statutory processes within a local authority.
• Excellent organisational, communication, and leadership skills.
• A collaborative, child-centred approach to service delivery.
• In-depth knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice (2015) and relevant legislation.

The Offer

Permanent, full-time hybrid position (3 days office-based).

Salary range: £37,732 - £43,695 per annum.

Opportunity to shape SEND services and improve outcomes for children and families in Medway.

Supportive working environment with a strong emphasis on collaboration and inclusion.