Job Description

Job Overview

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced

Deputy Manager

to join our team within a

children's residential home

. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong leadership skills, a nurturing and child-centred approach, and a thorough understanding of safeguarding, behaviour management, and trauma-informed care practices.

This role involves supporting the Registered Manager in the day-to-day running of the home, ensuring the highest standards of care and support are delivered in line with Ofsted regulations and company policies. The Deputy Manager will supervise and mentor staff, promote a positive and stable environment, and ensure that each child's individual care plan is implemented effectively.

The successful candidate will play a key role in maintaining a safe, supportive, and nurturing home where young people feel valued, listened to, and empowered to achieve positive outcomes in their lives.

Key Responsibilities

Support the Registered Manager in the smooth and effective running of the home. Lead, manage, and motivate the staff team to deliver high-quality, child-centred care. Promote the physical, emotional, and psychological wellbeing of children and young people. Take responsibility for the home during the Registered Manager's absence. Oversee staff rotas, supervision, performance management, and training. Mentor and support staff in their professional growth and confidence. Manage and guide staff in responding to behaviours that challenge. Maintain accurate and compliant records and reports. Participate in the on-call rota (20 per night plus time off in lieu). Ensure compliance with the home's Statement of Purpose and company policies. Lead by example to achieve the best outcomes for each young person. Apply and guide staff on relevant legislation, including Children's Homes Regulations 2015 and Quality Care Standards. Implement recommendations from Ofsted inspections promptly. Ensure adherence to safeguarding policies, Working Together to Safeguard Childrenguidance, and local authority procedures. Work collaboratively with professionals, agencies, and team members. Notify local authorities and Ofsted of significant incidents within required timeframes. Promote equality, diversity, and respect for each young person's identity and needs. Carry out administrative tasks and ensure compliance with Health and Safety regulations. Action findings from Quality Assurance and Regulation 44 reports. Support staff supervision, appraisals, and ongoing performance development. Keep up to date with mandatory and role-specific training. Undertake other duties as required to support the effective running of the home.

Essential Criteria

Minimum

1 year's experience

working in a residential children's setting. At least

1 year of line management or supervisory experience

. Proven experience as a

Team Leader or Deputy Manager

, demonstrating strong leadership and problem-solving skills. Experience working collaboratively with

professionals, children, and families

.

GCSEs in Maths and English (Grade C or above)

. Experience supporting

children with social, emotional, and behavioural needs

. Ability to

handle sensitive and confidential information

in line with GDPR and Data Protection regulations. Experience supporting

children and young people from diverse backgrounds

, including those who have experienced trauma. Hold a

Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care (Children and Young People)

or equivalent qualification. Strong ability to

communicate effectively

with children to understand their wishes and feelings.

Calm, approachable, adaptable

, and

non-judgemental

manner. Commitment to

equality, diversity, and inclusion

. Excellent

organisational, written, and verbal communication

skills. Commitment to

continuous professional and personal development

. Must be

aged 21 or over

(as required by Children's Homes Regulations.

Desirable Criteria

Level 5 Diploma

in Leadership and Management for Children's Residential Services (or working towards). Experience attending and contributing to

child-focused meetings

(e.g. LAC Reviews, Care Planning, Strategy Meetings). Strong

verbal communication and interpersonal skills

with children, families, carers, and professionals. Understanding and knowledge of a

therapeutic approach to childcare

. Ability to

work independently and collaboratively

within a team. Skilled in

building positive relationships

and promoting positive change. Awareness of

children's and adolescents' mental health needs

. Possession of

transferable skills

, such as First Aid training. Ability to

remain resilient and composed

in challenging situations.

Full, valid driving licence

.
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 33,500.00-40,000.00 per year

Ability to commute/relocate:

Maidstone ME14: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)
Application question(s):

Do you have Level 3 in Residential Childcare or higher?
Experience:

f line management of staff and supervisor responsibilities : 1 year (preferred)
Work Location: In person