What are the responsibilities and job description for the Head of Service Justice Social Work and Prison Health position at NHS Ayrshire & Arran?
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Head of Service (Justice Services) - GLA14633 | Glasgow City Health and Social Care Partnership | myjobscotland
The Head of Service for Justice Social Work and Prison Health will provide strategic and operational leadership across Glasgow City Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) and NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (GGC). The post carries responsibility for the full range of justice social work services in Glasgow, including court assessments and reports, bail supervision, community payback and drug treatment orders, unpaid work placements delivered in collaboration with third-sector partners and specialist prison social work provision. A key focus of the role is ensuring effective throughcare that supports individuals and their families both during custody and on release, alongside victim support services, all aimed at reducing reoffending and enhancing public protection. These services are delivered across courts, local social work offices, prisons, and wider community justice settings.
This position also uniquely encompasses leadership of prison healthcare services for NHS GGC within custodial establishments. The post holder will oversee the delivery, integration, and continuous improvement of healthcare provision across HMP Barlinnie, Lilias Community Custody Unit (Maryhill), HMP Low Moss, and HMP Greenock. Working closely with NHS GGC and the Scottish Prison Service, the Head of Service will ensure high-quality, safe, and responsive healthcare services aligned to inspection findings and ongoing service development requirements.
Together, these responsibilities place the role at the intersection of justice, social welfare, public health, and community safety, ensuring cohesive and effective service delivery for Glasgow’s diverse custodial population. As a senior leader within the HSCP, you will demonstrate a strong commitment to integrated working across the Council and NHS. You will play a key role in shaping and delivering the partnership’s strategic priorities, bringing a proven track record of successful change management and the ability to achieve tangible results through collaboration and influence. Excellent leadership and communication skills are essential.
As Chief Social Work Officer, you will also carry responsibility for all statutory requirements associated with the role. A clear understanding of NHS and local authority policy, particularly in relation to children’s services and child protection systems, is required.
In line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exclusions and Exceptions) (Scotland) Amendment Order 2015, applicants must declare all ‘unspent’ convictions, as the post is classified as an excepted post. Membership of the PVG Scheme for Children and Adults is essential. This role is politically restricted under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989.
Glasgow City HSCP promotes a culture of inclusion and values the diversity of its workforce. Applications are welcomed from UK, EEA, and non-EEA candidates. EU, EEA, or Swiss nationals are encouraged to ensure they have applied to the EU Settlement Scheme by the relevant deadline. Proof of EU Settlement Status will be required to demonstrate the right to work in the UK.
Informal Enquiries
Head of Service (Justice Services) - GLA14633 | Glasgow City Health and Social Care Partnership | myjobscotland
The Head of Service for Justice Social Work and Prison Health will provide strategic and operational leadership across Glasgow City Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) and NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (GGC). The post carries responsibility for the full range of justice social work services in Glasgow, including court assessments and reports, bail supervision, community payback and drug treatment orders, unpaid work placements delivered in collaboration with third-sector partners and specialist prison social work provision. A key focus of the role is ensuring effective throughcare that supports individuals and their families both during custody and on release, alongside victim support services, all aimed at reducing reoffending and enhancing public protection. These services are delivered across courts, local social work offices, prisons, and wider community justice settings.
This position also uniquely encompasses leadership of prison healthcare services for NHS GGC within custodial establishments. The post holder will oversee the delivery, integration, and continuous improvement of healthcare provision across HMP Barlinnie, Lilias Community Custody Unit (Maryhill), HMP Low Moss, and HMP Greenock. Working closely with NHS GGC and the Scottish Prison Service, the Head of Service will ensure high-quality, safe, and responsive healthcare services aligned to inspection findings and ongoing service development requirements.
Together, these responsibilities place the role at the intersection of justice, social welfare, public health, and community safety, ensuring cohesive and effective service delivery for Glasgow’s diverse custodial population. As a senior leader within the HSCP, you will demonstrate a strong commitment to integrated working across the Council and NHS. You will play a key role in shaping and delivering the partnership’s strategic priorities, bringing a proven track record of successful change management and the ability to achieve tangible results through collaboration and influence. Excellent leadership and communication skills are essential.
As Chief Social Work Officer, you will also carry responsibility for all statutory requirements associated with the role. A clear understanding of NHS and local authority policy, particularly in relation to children’s services and child protection systems, is required.
In line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exclusions and Exceptions) (Scotland) Amendment Order 2015, applicants must declare all ‘unspent’ convictions, as the post is classified as an excepted post. Membership of the PVG Scheme for Children and Adults is essential. This role is politically restricted under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989.
Glasgow City HSCP promotes a culture of inclusion and values the diversity of its workforce. Applications are welcomed from UK, EEA, and non-EEA candidates. EU, EEA, or Swiss nationals are encouraged to ensure they have applied to the EU Settlement Scheme by the relevant deadline. Proof of EU Settlement Status will be required to demonstrate the right to work in the UK.
Informal Enquiries
- Name: Lynsey Smith
- Post Title: Assistant Chief Officer
- Telephone: 07870 606191
- Email: Lynsey.smith@glasgow.gov.uk