The Role

Are you an experienced tribunal professional with an ability to respond to SEND appeals and represent local authorities at hearings?

If you answered yes, we want to hear from you!

We are looking to recruit a permanent Disagreement Resolution and Tribunal Manager to join our SNAS team in Wandsworth and help play a leading role in responding to appeals and both prepare and represent the Local Authority at Tribunal hearings.

About the role

As the Disagreement Resolution and Tribunal Manager you will be responsible for the preparation of the LA’s response to appeals to the SEN & Disability Tribunal. You will plan, research and present legal issues and work alongside the Head of SNAS, schools and other key professionals and witnesses. The role will also involve representing the LA at Tribunal hearings as determined by the Head of SNAS.

The successful candidate will also oversee the implementation of disagreement resolution procedures and provide advice and training for SNAS staff on their roles and responsibilities in relation to disagreement resolution and tribunals.

To be shortlisted your CV and personal statement will demonstrate:

• An ability to prepare responses to appeals and represent Local Authorities at Tribunal hearings
• Knowledge of other associated legislation e.g. Children’s Act 2014; Disability Discrimination Act 2005; Care Act and Equality Act 2010; Disability Act 2001; the Equalities Act 2010
• Experience of analysing complex written information and presenting to others
• Experience of implementing disagreement resolution procedures
• The ability to work closely with other key stakeholders, agencies and parents / carers
• Detailed knowledge of relevant SEND case law
• Experience of working in a Local Authority/public or third sector or legal role with accountability for working with the public and/or schools/education settings
• Educated to degree level or equivalent

Benefits

In return, we can offer you working arrangements that will enhance your work-life balance and a generous holiday allowance of 31 days plus bank holidays.  

In addition, we offer a range of staff benefits such as membership of the Local Government contributory pension scheme, HMRC childcare scheme, new technology scheme, interest-free loans on annual travel cards, discounts at many leisure activities, restaurants, shops, and other establishments. A wide range of developmental opportunities is also offered.

Wandsworth is a vibrant borough with great transport links. You can visit anywhere in the borough through public transport as this is an extremely accessible borough. There are excellent shops, local leisure facilities and each area of the borough has its own unique range of amenities.

Indicative Recruitment Timeline

• Closing Date: 11:59pm on Sunday 20th September 2020
• Shortlisting Date: Week commencing 21st September 2020
• Interview Dates:  Week commencing 28th September 2020

Useful Information:

Please note that these dates are only indicative at this stage and could be subject to change.

The closing date is given as a guide. We reserve the right to close this vacancy once a sufficient number of applications has been received. Therefore, it is strongly advised that you complete and return your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

Equality Statement

Richmond and Wandsworth Councils are committed to making our recruitment practices as inclusive as possible for everyone. We are committed to promoting equality and diversity and developing a culture that values differences, recognising that employees from a variety of backgrounds bring important and positive contributions to the Councils and can improve the way we deliver services.

We are pleased to be Disability Confident employer.

Important Information

This post is exempted under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and as such appointment to this post will be conditional upon the receipt of a satisfactory response to a check of police records via Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) helps employers make safer recruitment decisions and prevent unsuitable people from working with vulnerable groups, including children. It replaces the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) and Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA).

Richmond and Wandsworth Councils are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people/vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

How to apply?

To be considered for interview your CV and supporting statement (no longer than 1 side of a4) must highlight your knowledge, skills and experience listed in attached Job Profile located at the bottom of the advert.

For an informal discussion about the role please contact Gail Bailey by email Bailey.Gail@RichmondandWandsworth.gov.uk

Richmond and Wandsworth Councils