SEND Senior Manager | Inclusion Service

SEND Senior Manager

Inclusion Service – Lancashire County Council
Salary: £66,336 – £72,150
Location: Lancashire (Hybrid / Countywide)

the Lancashire SEND Service is currently recruiting to a number of new and existing roles following a service redesign aimed at strengthening capacity and improving support for children and young people with SEND. This has created additional posts across teams resulting in more opportunity to join the team. This period of growth is a positive and intentional step toward building a skilled, resilient and high‑performing service.

We are looking for motivated, committed individuals who are ready to contribute to our improvement journey and make a real difference to families across Lancashire.

Lead a Service That Changes Lives. Shape a Future That Matters.

If you’re a passionate SEND leader ready to influence real, lasting change across one of the largest local authorities in the country—this is your moment.

Lancashire is on a transformative journey to strengthen and elevate support for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities. We’re building an Inclusion Service that is ambitious, compassionate, forward‑thinking and driven by the belief that every child deserves the chance to thrive.

As our new SEND Senior Manager
, you will be at the forefront of this mission—driving strategy, leading talented teams and shaping high‑quality, inclusive services felt across the county.

This is more than a management role. It’s a chance to leave a legacy.

As a key leader within the Inclusion Service, you’ll oversee strategic and operational delivery of SEND services across Lancashire. You will guide high‑performing teams, ensuring clear direction, strong supervision and a culture built on shared values.

Your work will influence every part of the SEND system—from ensuring Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) processes are timely and person‑centred, to leading improvement activity, shaping local SEND strategy, strengthening multi‑agency partnerships and overseeing performance, quality and resources.

You’ll work closely with children, families, schools, senior leaders and partners to ensure their voices help drive inclusive practice and service design. The decisions you make will directly improve outcomes for children and young people across the county.

This is a role for someone who thrives on challenge, collaboration and meaningful impact.

You will bring senior experience of managing SEND services or large‑scale provision, alongside a strong understanding of SEND legislation, statutory responsibilities and local authority operations.

As a leader, you’re values‑driven, inspiring and confident in motivating teams through change. You think strategically, make sound decisions and have the communication and partnership skills needed to influence at every level—from families and schools to senior leaders and external organisations.

Above all, you are committed to inclusion, continuous improvement and ensuring children and young people receive the support they need to reach their potential.

A workplace built on trust, balance and flexibility

Hybrid working, flexible hours, and a culture shaped around wellbeing. You’ll receive 26 days’ annual leave (rising to 32 with service), 10 bank holidays, and the opportunity to purchase up to 20 extra days. Plus a generous Local Government Pension Scheme, access to our Employee Assistance Programme and a broad range of staff discounts and salary‑sacrifice benefits.

Development that grows with you

From your first day, we invest in your professional growth. Expect a thorough induction, ongoing CPD, opportunities for formal qualifications and clear progression pathways across the organisation. Regular supervision, reflective practice and peer support are central to how we work.

A culture grounded in inclusivity

We know people work best when they feel trusted and supported. We value flexibility, celebrate diversity and encourage staff to bring their strengths and ideas into a service that is continually improving and evolving.

Please use your application to show how you meet the criteria outlined in the Job Description and Person Specification. Attach a supporting statement and resume. We’re excited to welcome a leader who shares our ambition and commitment.

Sunday 29th March 2026
Interviews: TBC

The post you are applying for is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended in 2013). If successful you will be required to apply to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) for a 'disclosure'. Further information can be found on the 'Our Recruitment Process' tab

You will be required to provide a car for use in connection with the duties of this post and must be insured for business use. However, we may consider you if you cannot drive because of a disability.

Job Description and Person Specification