South West Regional Health Lead Practitioner

Dorset Council; Dorchester; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A local council in the UK is seeking a strategic lead for health integration focused on children and young people with SEND. The role involves overseeing the South West SEND plan, establishing regional health networks, and ensuring high-quality health services. Candidates should have relevant master’s level qualifications and professional health credentials, as well as experience in children’s health services. The position requires effective leadership, communication, and project management skills, along with significant travel requirements.

Qualifications

• Master’s level qualification in public health, healthcare management or a related field.
• Professional health qualification such as nursing or therapies.
• Experience in children’s health services and/or working with SEND.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic planning and delivery of the South West SEND plan.
• Establish and maintain regional health networks.
• Promote high-quality, person-centred health services.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Negotiation

Project management

Partnership building

Education

Master’s level qualification in public health or related field

Professional health qualification (e.g., nursing, therapies)

Job description

Overview

Work alongside regional senior leaders, Integrated Care Systems (ICSs), NHS trusts, and national partners. Be part of a dynamic, forward‑thinking team committed to inclusion and equity. Access professional development and leadership opportunities to support your career progression.

Are you passionate about improving health outcomes for children and young people with SEND? This is an exciting opportunity to lead strategic health integration across the South West, strengthening partnerships and driving reforms that make a real difference.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic planning and delivery of the South West SEND plan.
• Establish and maintain regional health networks involving ICs, NHS trusts and local authorities.
• Promote high‑quality, person‑centred health services and ensure co‑production with partners and communities.
• Advise on alignment of education, health and care priorities and represent the region in national forums.
• Manage regional health grants and ensure compliance with statutory duties and emerging health policies.
• Lead strategic health integration across the South West, strengthening partnerships and driving reforms that make a real difference.
• Work at the heart of a supportive collaborative network, influencing policy and practice in the region.
• Be part of a team that works together for a better Dorset, have access to a range of benefits and support, and receive training and development opportunities to help your career progress.

Qualifications

• A Master’s level qualification (or equivalent) in public health, health care management or a related field.
• Professional health qualification (e.g., nursing, therapies, public health).
• Experience in children’s health services and/or SEND and multi‑agency working.
• Strong knowledge of health legislation, integrated care systems and the SEND Code of Practice.
• Proven ability to lead change, manage complex projects and build strong partnerships.
• Excellent communication, negotiation and leadership skills.

Requirements

• Significant travel required; you must have a vehicle (or suitable transport) available for use as needed.
• Post involves working with children and/or vulnerable adults and requires access to significant information about them.
• Subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service check.
• See our policy on the employment of ex‑offenders.
• See our policy on safeguarding children and young people.

About Dorset Council

At Dorset Council, it’s not just about the work we do, it’s about how we do it. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation where different skills, perspectives and backgrounds strengthen both our council and the communities we serve.

• Provide essential services that support over 300,000 residents.
• Work in partnership to make a real difference.
• Value every role and the impact it has on our communities.
• Support our employees to grow, develop and thrive.

We welcome applications from everyone and are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. If you declare a disability and meet the essential criteria for the role, we will offer you an interview. If you need reasonable adjustments, just let us know on your application.

This role is UK‑based and we will need to confirm your Right to Work as part of the appointment process. We use generic job descriptions and person specifications; if needed, we will provide additional details in a context statement.

If you’re passionate about making a difference, we’d love you to join us.