Deputy Head of Clinical Legal Services


Company:	NHS Jobs
Salary:	Negotiable
Hours:	Full-time
Location:	Bournemouth, BH7 7DW
Job type:	Permanent
Posting date:	13 Aug 2026
Closing date:	11 Sept 2026

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Summary

The Deputy Head of Clinical Legal Services is a senior specialist role responsible for supporting the delivery of a comprehensive clinical legal service across University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust. The post holder will oversee the operational management of the Trust's inquest function, ensuring timely investigation, allocation and progression of coronial matters and will manage their own caseload of inquests. The successful candidate will independently investigate and manage non-clinical claims under the Liability to Third Parties Scheme and Property Expenses Scheme, while also supporting the management of a caseload if clinical negligence claims. Working closely with NHS Resolution and external legal representatives, they will ensure compliance with relevant legislation, court procedures and NHS requirements. A key aspect of the role involves providing specialist healthcare law advice to clinical teams, supporting decision-making in relation to patient care and treatment. The role requires the ability to communicate highly sensitive and complex information with confidence and professionalism. The post holder will work in partnership with clinicians, governance teams and senior leaders, helping to identify patient safety issues, organisational learning opportunities and reputational risks arising from legal casework. The Deputy Head of Clinical Legal Services will contribute to service development by supporting the review and implementation of policies, maintaining compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, and ensuring Trust procedures reflect current legal guidance and best practice. They will also assist in the supervision and development of Clinical Legal Services staff and contribute to educational programmes across the organisation delivering training sessions for clinical staff. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated legal professional seeking a challenging and influential role within a large NHS organisation currently undertaking a significant transformation programme. You will join a supportive team dedicated to improving patient safety, supporting staff and ensuring the effective management of legal risk across the Trust.

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