Social Services Manager

Typical Salary

£35,000 To £75,000

Typical Hours

38 to 40 a week

between 8am and 6pm

How To Become a Social Services Manager

You can get into this job through:

a university course
a college course
an apprenticeship
applying directly

College / University

You could do a degree or postgraduate qualification before applying for a management trainee place with a local authority. Most subjects are accepted, though you may have an advantage with a qualification in:

social work
mental health nursing
public health policy
health and social care

2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course

You could learn some of the skills you need for this job through a college course, like a Level 4 or 5 Diploma in Health and Social Care Management.

1 or 2 A levels, a level 3 diploma or relevant experience for a level 4 or level 5 course

Apprenticeship

You may be able to start on a higher apprenticeship for children, young people and families managers, or care leadership and management, then do further on-the-job training.

4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

Routes into this Career

Routes into this Career are not listed for this job.

You'll need several years' management experience and a relevant qualification like the Level 5 Diploma in Leadership in Health and Social Care to apply for job vacancies directly.

Employers will expect you to have a clear understanding of legislation, safety standards and social policy for your chosen field.

Other Routes

Other Routes are not listed for this job.

Skills And Knowledge

You'll need:

customer service skills
knowledge of psychology
counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
sensitivity and understanding
the ability to work well with others
leadership skills
the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
excellent verbal communication skills
to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Day To Day Tasks

Your day-to-day duties could include:

developing strategies and policies
managing a team of senior staff
planning staff and resource requirements
managing finances and controlling budgets
monitoring and improving service provision
managing changes to services and how they’re provided
analysing service data to identify areas for improvement and for reports
working closely with other agencies
supporting the professional development of your management team
negotiating contracts and buying in services from outside providers

Working Environment

You could work in the community or in an office.

Your working environment may be emotionally demanding.

Career Path & Progression

Career Path & Progression are not listed for this job.

Volunteering Opportunities

Volunteering Opportunities are not listed for this job.

Tips & Information

Registration

you'll need to register with Social Work England

Further information

You'll find more advice about working in social services from Think Care Careers.

Restrictions & Requirements

You'll need to:

pass enhanced background checks

A driving licence will be useful.