Chair, Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Services

Ministry of Justice

London

  • Location London
  • Sector Central Government
  • Client Ministry of Justice
  • Job Type Fixed Term Contract
  • Salary/Remuneration £650 per day (approximately £52,000 per annum)/80 days per annum
  • Reference GSe135336
  • Closing Date 11am on Friday 25 September 2026

Every year, around 137,000 children in England rely on Cafcass to ensure their voices are heard and their welfare is protected within family court proceedings. As the independent organisation representing children in the family justice system, Cafcass plays a unique and vital role in helping courts make decisions that are in children's best interests.

Cafcass is a non-departmental public body sponsored by the Ministry of Justice, with responsibility for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children involved in family court proceedings. As England's largest employer of qualified social workers, it provides independent advice to the courts and supports children and families at some of the most critical moments in their lives. Rated Outstanding by Ofsted, Cafcass is recognised for delivering high-quality services and continues to play a leading role in shaping reform across the family justice system to improve outcomes for children and young people.

We are seeking an exceptional Chair to provide strategic leadership to the Board and guide the organisation through its next phase of development. Working closely with the Chief Executive, you will help shape Cafcass's future direction, ensure effective governance and accountability, and maintain a clear focus on achieving the best possible outcomes for children. You will also act as a visible ambassador for the organisation, engaging confidently with ministers, senior government officials, the judiciary, partner organisations and the media.

You will bring significant board-level leadership experience gained within a complex service delivery organisation operating at scale. You will have a strong understanding of child services, family support, safeguarding, health or social care, together with experience of leading transformation and improvement in public services. Strong relationship-building skills, sound judgement, resilience, and the ability to provide both support and constructive challenge will be essential. An understanding of the role of family justice and court services in improving outcomes for children will also be important.

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