Job Description

Job Summary

The Director of Care is a pivotal leadership role responsible for overseeing the delivery of high-quality care services within our organisation. This position involves developing and implementing care strategies, managing staff, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. The ideal candidate will possess strong management skills and a compassionate approach to care provision, fostering an environment of continuous improvement and excellence.

As the Responsible Person accountable to local regulatory authorities, you will ensure our homes meet and exceed standards set out by regulatory bodies, including weekly and monthly assurance audits. The Director of Care will also be responsible for securing service contracts with key stakeholders which ensures financial sustainability and building strategic partnerships.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Leadership & Governance:

Provide strategic leadership and vision for the organisation, aligning with the mission and values of the home. Act as the Responsible Person, ensuring compliance with local regulatory requirements (e.g., Health and Social Care Trusts, RQIA). Oversee the creation, implementation, and maintenance of robust policies, procedures, and systems that meet governance and operational standards. Develop, implement, and monitor long-term and short-term goals and initiatives to drive growth and operational success. Lead by example, promoting a positive, caring, and collaborative company culture. Ensure good governance practices, attending Board meetings and providing regular reports to the Board of Directors. Maintain strong, productive relationships with all key stakeholders, including regulatory bodies, local authorities, and funding partners.

2. Care and Quality Assurance:

Ensure Lifestyles Residential Services adheres to the highest standards of care, safety, and quality as prescribed by national and local policies. Lead the development and implementation of care strategies that are child-centered, supporting the emotional, educational, and social development of children in care. Oversee regular care and quality audits, ensuring adherence to policies, standards, and regulations. Conduct weekly and monthly assurance audits to monitor quality control, incident reports, and safeguarding practices. Ensure continuous improvement and the development of innovative practices in residential childcare. Take a lead role in investigating any incidents or breaches in quality standards, collaborating with external consultants and internal teams, implementing corrective actions where necessary.

3. Regulatory Compliance & Accountability:

Serve as the primary point of contact and the accountable person in dealings with regulatory authorities such as the RQIA. Ensure that the home meets all legislative and regulatory requirements, particularly around safeguarding, health & safety, and child protection. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of changes in local and national regulations and ensure that all policies and procedures reflect current best practice.

Responsibilities

Lead the care team to ensure the delivery of compassionate, person-centred care that meets organisational standards and regulatory requirements. Develop, implement, and review care policies and procedures to promote best practices across all services. Monitor service quality through audits, feedback, and performance metrics, ensuring continuous improvement. Provide leadership in staff recruitment, training, supervision, and appraisal processes to maintain a motivated and skilled workforce. Collaborate with other departments to coordinate services effectively and optimise resource utilisation. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of relevant legislation, standards, and best practices in care management. Act as a point of contact for managers, clients, families, and external agencies to address concerns and promote positive relationships. Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, safeguarding policies, and confidentiality protocols.

Experience

Proven experience in a management role within the healthcare or social care sector. Demonstrable leadership skills with the ability to motivate and develop teams effectively. Strong understanding of regulatory frameworks relevant to care services. Excellent organisational skills with the capacity to manage multiple priorities efficiently. Compassionate approach with excellent communication skills tailored to diverse audiences. Previous experience in developing policies and implementing quality assurance measures is desirable. This position offers a rewarding opportunity for an experienced management professional passionate about delivering exceptional care services while leading a dedicated team towards continuous excellence.

Stakeholder & External Relations:

Maintain strong working relationships with external agencies, stakeholders, and the local community to ensure the home's reputation and compliance with external contracts.

Key Skills & Competencies:

Proven leadership experience in a residential care or children's services setting. Strong understanding of child protection, safeguarding, and social care regulations. Strong financial acumen with experience in managing budgets and securing contracts. Ability to develop and maintain positive relationships with regulatory authorities, stakeholders, and community partners. Strategic thinker with a collaborative approach to problem-solving and decision-making. Strong commitment to maintaining high standards of care and quality assurance. Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively under pressure.

Qualifications & Experience:

A degree in Social Work or a closely related field (required). Significant experience in a leadership role within a children's services or social care environment. In-depth knowledge of Northern Ireland's regulatory environment for Residential Children's Home, including the Children's Homes Regulations and Quality Standards (Northern Ireland). Proven track record of managing compliance and governance in a regulated care environment. Act as the face of the organisation at public engagements and external forums, ensuring positive representation.
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 62,000.00-65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension Work from home
Work Location: In person