We are creating a new Family Group Decision Making (FGDM) Lead role to design and establish this approach across Children’s Services. You will lead from the ground up, shaping how FGDM is implemented, embedded and measured across the system.

You must bring strong experience of Family Group Conferencing or similar family-led decision-making models. This is essential. You also need a proven track record of setting up or leading new services, programmes or system change in a multi-agency environment.

You will define the model, build practice standards, support practitioners, and ensure high-quality delivery that strengthens family networks and improves outcomes for children. You will be working to develop this service as part of our work towards the national Family's First reforms. You will need to be able to deliver FGDM yourself and lead others in doing so. This is great opportunity to build something from the beginning. 

This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. If your application is successful you will be required to declare any spent and unspent convictions, adult cautions (simple or conditional) that are not "protected" as defined by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended in 2013 and 2020).

Closing date: 30th July 2026.

Interviews: 20th August 2026

How to apply

When you are ready to apply, click on ‘Apply for Vacancy’; you will be asked to upload a CV and answer some application questions.  The application questions require a yes/no response.  Please make sure your CV shows how you meet the requirements for the role you are applying for, the job profile below will show the essential selection criteria.  An optional CV template is provided below.  

Please note:

The Council will not normally re-employ ex-employees in receipt of:

·                    a severance payment (within 12 months of leaving)

·                    a local government pension (applies to Senior Officers only)

unless the appointment is business critical

For further information, please email recruitment.team@bedford.gov.uk

Guaranteed interview schemes

Bedford Borough Council is proud to be a member of the Armed Forces Covenant and the Care Leavers Covenant, we pledge to interview any eligible job applicant who meets the minimum criteria for the job they are applying for.  Bedford Borough Council is also a Level 2 Disability Confident employer and guarantees to interview anyone with a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria for the role they are applying for.  

Bedford Borough Council is unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role.