Role: Programme Manager

Overview

This case study highlights two significant programmes that demonstrate my ability to work creatively, at pace, and under acute pressure while working directly to the Director of Children’s Services (DCS).

Ofsted readiness and inspection management: Dorset Council’s Children’s Services embarked on a comprehensive improvement journey following a ‘Requires Improvement’ judgement. This required developing a detailed performance dashboard, establishing governance arrangements, and creating a system-wide improvement plan that was implemented and monitored.

COVID-19 response: During the COVID-19 pandemic, I supported the DCS in managing the directorate’s emergency response. This included overseeing communications, designing and implementing short-term stand-up services, tracking workforce status, and establishing a food voucher program for schools.

Achievements

• Social care improvement plan: Designed and implemented the initial Ofsted readiness and improvement plan. Conducted a detailed assessment of performance against the ILACS framework. Developed a robust performance dashboard and implemented governance arrangements. Created a comprehensive improvement plan with task and finish groups, and monitored outcomes.
• Inspection coordination: Managed both an Ofsted focused and full ILACS visit. Worked directly with the leadership team to ensure a smooth, calm, and coordinated inspection. Responsible for scheduling, coordinating key lines of enquiry, internal communications, consents, and partner stakeholder engagement.
• COVID-19 response: Designed and implemented several rapid-response services and initiatives, including a free school meals voucher program, a workforce health tracker and dashboard, a support program for foster carers, a laptop distribution program for school children, an internal communication strategy, and a workforce skills exchange program to match underutilised council staff with areas of high demand.

Impact

• Conducting an internal self-evaluation against ILACS criteria established a crucial baseline, guiding the development and implementation of a targeted and effective action plan. This foundational step ensured focused improvements and measurable progress.
• The improvement plan was evolved into Dorset’s strengthening services plan, resulting in an Ofsted ‘Good’ judgement in 2021.
• During COVID-19, the Director of Children’s Services was effectively supported, enabling her to manage the crisis with confidence. Critical stand-up services were promptly established and proved effective, ensuring continuity of care and support to families.
• Clear communication reassured staff and partners, fostering a sense of safety and support during the initial weeks of the pandemic. This assurance helped maintain stability and morale in a challenging and rapidly evolving situation.

Skills

Project management:

• Developed and executed complex plans under tight deadlines.
• Coordinated multiple stakeholders and ensured effective communication and collaboration.

Leadership:

• Directed the work of colleagues, including those senior to me, maintaining clear focus and direction.