All About the Role: Head of Learning Disabilities and Mental Health

In this blog, we’ll cover:

• What the role of Head of Learning Disabilities and Mental Health entails
• The impact this role has on Hackney’s community
• The skills, experience, and qualities required to excel
• How Connect2Hackney can help you access opportunities

Leadership roles in social care are about more than managing teams; they’re about shaping services, influencing outcomes, and making a real difference in people’s lives.

For senior positions like the Head of Learning Disabilities and Mental Health, the responsibilities are wide-ranging and impactful, combining strategic planning, operational oversight, and collaboration with a variety of stakeholders.

What the role of Head of Learning Disabilities and Mental Health entails

A day in the life of the Head of Learning Disabilities and Mental Health is varied and fast-paced, blending strategic leadership with hands-on involvement in service delivery. You’ll be responsible for overseeing multiple teams, ensuring services run smoothly, and that the needs of residents are met effectively. Collaboration is key; you’ll work closely with social care professionals, health colleagues, and community partners to make sure services are coordinated and outcomes are positive. It’s a role that demands both big-picture thinking and attention to detail, balancing administrative responsibilities with real-world impact.

Key daily tasks might include:

• Leading and supporting teams across learning disabilities and mental health services.
• Developing and implementing strategic plans, policies and procedures
• Collaborating with internal and external stakeholders, including health partners and the local council
• Monitoring service performance and ensuring compliance with statutory requirements and best practices.
• Providing expert guidance and decision-making on complex cases or service challenges

The role also involves mentoring staff, promoting professional development, and ensuring that teams are equipped to deliver high-quality support. It’s a position where leadership directly translates into better services for Hackney’s residents, allowing you to make a tangible difference while shaping the future of social care in the borough.

Teams and Departments You’ll Oversee

As the Head of Learning Disabilities and Mental Health, you’ll play a central role in leading a range of teams that deliver essential services across Hackney. This includes overseeing adult social care teams that support individuals with learning disabilities, autism, and mental health needs, as well as specialist service managers and practitioners who focus on person-centred care and community-based support. Collaboration is at the heart of this role; you’ll work closely with commissioning, safeguarding, housing, and health partners to ensure services are joined up and effective.

You’ll also have responsibility for guiding operational teams through change, developing staff capability, and embedding best practice across departments. This leadership position is not only about managing day-to-day services but also about shaping long-term strategies that align with Hackney Council’s vision for inclusive, responsive care. By supporting multidisciplinary teams and fostering strong relationships across the council and the NHS, you’ll help drive innovation and continuous improvement in how care and support are delivered to residents.

What qualifications or experience do I need?

A Head of Learning Disabilities and Mental Health role requires significant experience in social care or health services, often with a focus on leadership and management. Candidates typically need a track record of overseeing complex teams and services, along with experience in strategic planning, policy development, and service improvement. Strong knowledge of statutory frameworks, safeguarding, and best practices within social care is also essential. Advanced qualifications in social work, healthcare, or management are often preferred, as they demonstrate both expertise and readiness for a senior leadership position.

In Hackney specifically, the council looks for professionals who understand the unique needs of the borough’s diverse population. Experience working with learning disabilities or mental health services in an urban setting is highly valued, as is the ability to collaborate across local health, social care, and voluntary sector organisations. Knowledge of Hackney’s community services, local initiatives, and partnership networks helps leaders make informed decisions that directly improve outcomes for residents and support the borough’s commitment to inclusive, person-centred care.

The skills, experience, and qualities required to excel

To succeed as the Head of Learning Disabilities and Mental Health, a combination of leadership ability, professional expertise, and personal qualities is essential. The role demands someone who can inspire and guide teams, make strategic decisions under pressure, and maintain a focus on improving outcomes for residents. Strong communication skills are key, as is the ability to collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders, from health professionals to voluntary organisations, ensuring services are coordinated and effective.

Analytical thinking is also crucial, as the role requires monitoring performance, interpreting data, and ensuring compliance with statutory standards. Equally important are empathy and dedication, understanding the needs of residents, advocating for their well-being, and promoting inclusive, person-centred care. With the right combination of experience, vision, and personal qualities, this position allows you to lead teams that deliver high-quality services, driving real, positive change in the lives of people with learning disabilities and mental health needs across Hackney.

How Connect2Hackney can help you access opportunities

If you’re ready to take the next step in your career in social care leadership, Connect2Hackney can support you in finding the right opportunities. By working closely with Hackney Council and other local partners, the team helps connect experienced professionals with senior roles that match their skills and ambitions. Whether you’re looking for a permanent leadership position or a pathway to advance your career within the borough, Connect2Hackney provides guidance, advice, and access to roles that make a real difference in the community.

From providing insights into local vacancies to supporting you through the application and interview process, Connect2Hackney helps ensure your experience and expertise are recognised. For leaders in social care, this means a smoother route into impactful positions where you can shape services, influence policy, and ultimately improve the lives of people with learning disabilities and mental health needs across Hackney.

Meet our dedicated consultant:

• Jordan Peat, Talent Partner
  📞 0208 356 2391
  📧 jordan.peat@connect2hackney.co.uk

She’ll guide you through the application process, provide insights into current opportunities, and offer ongoing support to help you succeed in your new role.

👉 Explore current Head of Learning Disabilities and Mental Health opportunities with Connect2Hackney HERE

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👉 Register HERE to stay updated on the latest roles and connect with our consultants.