Safeguarding Adults Board Independent Chair

In North Lincolnshire, there is an ongoing drive and commitment to ensure continuous improvement leading to better outcomes and experiences for adults at risk in North Lincolnshire. We are committed to a culture of continuous learning and improvement, underpinned by high challenge and high support, which contributes to our ambition of keeping people in their own homes, families, jobs and communities.

We are looking for an Independent Chair to provide strong strategic leadership and vision, and to build on and enhance the current strong partnership arrangements to support the SAB in fulfilling its functions and strategic priorities.

Under the auspices of the North Lincolnshire Safeguarding Adults Board, the role of the Board is set out in our local arrangements which can be found within our partnership agreement and strategic plan.

The role of the Independent Chair requires an outstanding individual with enthusiasm, commitment and determination to drive forward the adult safeguarding agenda in North Lincolnshire.

The Independent Chair will have significant knowledge and experience of working within services responsible for safeguarding adults, to command the respect and engagement of the Board and its constituent partners.

The Independent Chair will have experience of leading and managing in a large public, independent or voluntary sector organisation at a senior level. They will have proven experience of chairing complex partnership meetings and have extensive knowledge and experience of applying the legislation and guidance in relation to safeguarding adults. They will ensure that the SAB operates effectively to deliver its key objectives and functions as set out in the Care Act 2014

The role of Independent Chair is to:

• provide effective leadership to the board, ensuring that they complete all tasks and responsibilities to a high standard, in a timely and proportionate manner, and in accordance with the requirements of the Care Act (2014) and other relevant legislation
• lead the Safeguarding Adults Board meetings including setting the agenda, approving and distributing minutes and following up on decisions taken by the board
• ensure sound governance and due diligence is always in place
• take the lead in producing and publicising the board’s strategic plan and annual report, and monitoring and reviewing the effectiveness of the plan
• promote collaborative work and a culture of learning, constructive criticism and support within the board
• work with any conflicts or concerns within the board, supporting members to reach a positive resolution
• contribute to developing a culture where the prevention of abuse and neglect is paramount, including sharing learning from SARs within the local area, regionally and nationally (where appropriate)
• ensure that the work of the board and the outcomes from SARs inform wider training plans and learning and development priorities.
• champion and promote the prevention of abuse and neglect to adults across all relevant agencies, contributing to the broader safeguarding preventative agenda
• ensure that the voices of people who draw on care and support and their families, are heard and acted upon within the board’s work

The Independent Chair will possess an ability to lead, influence and motivate others. A robust knowledge and understanding of the adult safeguarding agenda and a clear commitment to work collaboratively with partners to improve outcomes for adults at risk of abuse and/or neglect is essential. They will also actively promote engagement with adults who need care and support, their families, and advocates to ensure their voices are heard and acted upon within the Board’s work.

This is a challenging and rewarding role, an opportunity to work at a strategic level with a wide range of multi-agency partners and professionals across North Lincolnshire.

The salary will be £600 per day, including travel expenses. It is anticipated that this role with require the post holder to undertake on average two days per month, however there would need to be a degree of flexibility.

Please note that the Independent Chair will perform Office Holder duties and IR35 rules apply to this appointment. Payments will be made through North Lincolnshire Council payroll and tax and NI deductions will be made at source via PAYE in line with current HMRC guidelines.

The appointment will be for 2 years, subject to review after 12 months, with the potential to extend for a further 2 years.

For an informal discussion regarding the role, please contact Victoria Lawrence, Director of Adults and Health via Victoria.lawrence@northlincs.gov.uk

To apply please send your CV and a covering letter of application (of no more than three sides of A4) to safeguardingadultsboard@northlincs.gov.uk. The letter should outline how your suitability and knowledge, skills and experience is relevant to the job profile below. It should also include details of a referee.

Closing date for applications: Friday 6 June 2025

Interview date: To be confirmed