Deputy Head of Communications

• Deputy_Head_of_Communications_-_Job_Description_-_March_2026

Please apply online via the link provided.

The Vacancy

Would you like to work in a purpose driven communications role that has a direct impact on 130,000 children and families every year? Cafcass (the Children and Family Court Advisory Support Service) is a national organisation that supports children by understanding their experiences and speaking up for them when the family court makes critical decisions about their futures. It is an arm’s-length body of the Ministry of Justice and the largest employer of qualified social workers in England.

If you are a senior communications professional with a strong sense of purpose, who enjoys rising to a challenge and making a tangible difference, then this could be the right role for you.

About the role

We are seeking an experienced and strategic communications professional to join us as Deputy Head of Communications, providing senior leadership for the Cafcass communications team, closely working with the Head of Communications and senior leadership.

As Deputy Head of Communications, you will play a pivotal role in shaping, delivering and evaluating creative and effective communication strategies that support our organisational priorities. You will lead Cafcass’ media function and be a trusted adviser who works pragmatically with senior leaders and key stakeholders to develop media strategies.

You will also act as our senior digital communications lead, driving the continued development of Cafcass’ social media channels, digital platforms and online presence. Your expertise will ensure that our digital communication is strategic, responsive and insight‑led, supporting engagement with children, families, partners and colleagues.

You will work closely with our suppliers including our media monitoring service and our website developers ensuring effective contract management and value for money.

Leadership and Team Development

In this role, you will provide confident, supportive and empowering line management to members of the communications team. You will promote a culture of accountability, excellence and continuous learning, ensuring colleagues are supported to grow, innovate and deliver high-quality work.

Your leadership approach will balance professional challenge with coaching and development, modelling the values and behaviours expected across Cafcass.

Location

This is a national role within a flexible, predominantly remote-working team. Travel to our Central London office will be required for key meetings, events and project delivery. London weighting or expenses will apply depending on your contracted location.

About you

• Degree-level education or equivalent professional experience in communications, media, PR or a related field.
• Significant experience leading communications teams in complex, fast-paced, politically aware environments. Thrives working across multiple projects with a variety of stakeholders.
• A strong track record of advising senior leaders and influencing decision‑making at an organisational level.
• Expertise in developing and delivering integrated communication strategies, managing channels and producing engaging content for diverse audiences.
• Excellent judgement and communication skills, with the ability to write clearly, concisely and with impact.
• A strong understanding of the public sector context, including political sensitivity and awareness of risk.
• Robust project management and analytical skills, using audience insight and evaluation to inform continuous improvement.
• Experience in media relations, including proactive and reactive press handling, and an ability to build constructive relationships with partners across sectors.
• Experience developing and enhancing digital platforms, working closely with external suppliers to ensure optimum impact.
• A commitment to inclusive, sensitive and non‑discriminatory practice, demonstrating professional integrity in all interactions.

Next steps / Timelines

Below we have given you an indication of a timetable we are hoping to work towards, although dates are subject to change.

 Closing date:

  6th April 2026

 Telephone interviews (via Teams):         

16th &17th April

 Final Interview (in person Grays Inn Road, London):

22nd April

Vacancy Contact - Priya.Kadara@cafcass.gov.uk