Job Introduction
Full Remote Working (Homebased)
Working for the Bradford Children and Families Trust offers the opportunity to work with some great people who are passionate about delivering change in a city whose culture offers as much diversity as it’s geography. You can make a real difference to families and children and be an active part in delivering the service Bradford families should receive.
We are fully committed to equal opportunities and we welcome applications from all backgrounds.
About the Role
We’re looking for a Bank of Independent Persons’ who can champion fairness, transparency, and the rights of children and families. In this key role, you’ll provide impartial oversight of Stage 2 statutory complaint investigations and help shape the integrity of Stage 3 Review Panels. Your expertise ensures that every complaint is handled with professionalism, that the voices of children and families are central to the process, and that our work remains compliant, accountable, and continually improving.
Our strategic vision and values https://www.bradfordcft.org.uk/about-us/our-vision-and-values/ are upheld across the Trust, fostering a reliable and supportive environment for both staff and the children in our care.
Our approach is rooted in restorative and relational practice, fostering trust, mutual respect, and meaningful relationships with children, families, and professionals.
You’ll also:
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Ensure Stage 2 complaint investigations are fair, proportionate, child‑centred, and fully aligned with statutory guidance and Trust policy.
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Work alongside an Investigating Officer to:
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Review case files and documentation
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Test and evaluate evidence
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Provide constructive, independent challenge
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Keep the investigation focused on the issues raised at Stage 1
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Participate in Stage 3 Review Panels, offering objective insight into the adequacy and fairness of the Stage 2 investigation.
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Support transparent, well‑informed panel deliberations that uphold trust and accountability.
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Take on assignments on an ad‑hoc, flexible basis, working within statutory timescales:
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Stage 2 investigations typically completed within 25–65 working days
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Stage 3 panels held within 30 days of request
To be successful in this role you will need:
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Experience of complaints handling or investigations in children’s services, social care, or related public sector domains.
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Understanding of statutory complaints frameworks, including the Children Act procedures and Ombudsman principles.
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Strong analytical skills, balanced judgment, and excellent written communication.
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Ability to engage empathetically and professionally with children, families, and staff.
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Understanding of equality, diversity, and inclusion principles.
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Understanding of safeguarding principles and the importance of hearing and representing the child’s voice.
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Ability to explain findings to complainants and professionals in accessible, appropriate language.
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Ability to meet statutory timescales and avoid delays.
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Ability to evaluate investigation reports and assess compliance with procedures.
Appointment Requirements and Selection Process
Before an appointment can be confirmed, applicants must provide:
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Evidence of current Professional Indemnity Insurance, minimum of £5,000.
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Evidence of current Public Liability Insurance, minimum of £1 million.
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A valid Standard DBS certificate registered with the DBS Update Service.
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Two satisfactory professional references.
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Cannot have worked as a paid employee for either Bradford Council or Bradford Childrens and Families Trust within the last 3 years.
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Cannot be a spouse of an employee or an Elected Member of BMDC
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Applicants who are shortlisted for the Role must provide the required information within 3 weeks of contact.
Please note that applicants must have all the above requirements in place to be considered for appointment to the Independent Person bank.
Following an initial review of applications, suitable candidates will be invited to a discussion with the Trust's Customer Care Manager. This conversation will provide an opportunity to explore relevant experience, discuss the requirements of the role, and assess suitability for the position. Appointments will be offered to candidates who successfully demonstrate the skills, experience, and independence required for the role.
You will be contacted directly by the trust’s customer care manager – following review of your application,
You’ll also be joining an organisation that truly values its people, what we are offering:
Competitive fee rates per assignment-
Flexible, ad‑hoc working arrangements
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Full induction and mandatory safeguarding training
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Support from the Customer Care Team throughout each investigation
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Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion across all roles within the Trust
Bradford Children and Families Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all employees to share this commitment.
Applicants must hold an Enhanced DBS certificate registered with the DBS Update Service, together with the required insurance documentation and satisfactory
To arrange an informal discussion, please contact Samantha Charlston (Head of Governance & Risk) on [email protected]
Closing Date: 16th August 2026
Please note the Job Posting will close early if sufficient numbers of applications are received
Interviews: tbc
