SEND Designated Clinical Officer

We are currently recruiting for an experienced SEND DCO for our client in London. This is a strategic role focused on improving health outcomes for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) by ensuring health services comply with the Children and Families Act 2015 and SEND Code of Practice. Key responsibilities include fostering collaboration between health services and local authorities, providing expert advice, contributing to strategy, and ensuring high-quality health contributions to Education, Health and Care (EHC) plans. 

Key Responsibilities of a DCO

• Strategic Contribution:
  To influence and develop health strategies that support the implementation of SEND reforms and improve outcomes for children and young people with SEND. 
  
  
• Joined-Up Working:
  To facilitate and support collaborative working between health services, local authorities, and other partners to ensure smooth pathways for children and families. 
  
  
• Expert Advice:
  To act as a central point of expertise, providing guidance and advice to health professionals, schools, local authorities, parents, and young people on SEND-related matters.
  
  
  
• Compliance and Quality Assurance:
  To ensure health services meet their statutory obligations under the SEND legislation and to promote high-quality contributions to EHC plans. 
  
  
  
• Stakeholder Engagement:
  To work with stakeholders, including children, young people, parents, and providers, to identify gaps in services and inform future planning. 
  
  
  
• Training and Awareness:
  To raise awareness and understanding of SEND reforms among health professionals and providers, often through training and discussions.