Job Description

Progress to Change

is a Leeds-based charity that operates two Independent Approved Premises (IAPs):

Ripon House

, a 22-bed facility for women, and

Cardigan House

, a 26-bed facility for men. These facilities serve individuals released from prison on licence, primarily those assessed as high risk, under the supervision of probation practitioners. The charity's mission is to assist and rehabilitate some of the most vulnerable members of society focusing on providing structured support and purposeful activities aimed at resettlement within the community. Progress to Change operates in close partnership with the Ministry of Justice and the Probation Service, and is a member of the National Approved Premises Association (NAPA).

Job Purpose

The Deputy Manager will play a key role in supporting the Approved Premises (AP) Managers in the day-to-day running of the service, ensuring high standards of care, safety, and rehabilitation opportunities for residents. This includes overseeing staff support, organising shift coverage, coordinating training, and maintaining strong relationships with external partners. The role requires a proactive approach to resident engagement, activity planning, and staff development while working a variety of shifts, including weekends and late shifts.

The candidate will be required to work across two sites in Leeds.

Key Responsibilities

Staff Support & Rota Management

Assist the AP Manager in organising and ensuring appropriate rota coverage, including managing last-minute changes. Provide day-to-day support to support staff, ensuring clear communication and guidance. Disseminate relevant information to staff to ensure smooth service operation. Support AP manager to develop good practice across the teams. Demonstrate a thorough understanding of risk of harm in the context of Approved Premises, contributing to effective public protection through informed decision-making, staff guidance, and adherence to safeguarding protocols.

Training & Development

Ensure new team members receive appropriate induction and training. Deliver training sessions, including First Aid and other relevant development opportunities. Support continuous professional development for staff, ensuring a skilled and competent workforce. Co-ordinate the submission of Enabling Environments on-going award process. Support the AP manager in preparing for HMIP Inspections.

Meetings & Partnership Working

Attend and contribute to Equality, Inclusion, and Diversity (EID) meetings and other relevant meetings as required by the AP Manager, within the MOJ Liaise with partner organisations, building and maintaining strong links with the local community to enhance support services.

Resident Engagement & Activities

Liaise with the AP Manager and Activities co-ordinators to ensure a full calendar of activities is available for residents, promoting engagement and rehabilitation. Manage the activity calendar, coordinating and overseeing planned events and programmes.

Shift & Working Hours

The role is primarily Mon-Fri office hours. However, there will be an expectation to provide some flexibility and work occasional evenings and weekends when business need requires. Provide hands-on support within the AP, ensuring a visible leadership presence.

Person Specification

Essential Criteria:

Experience working within a criminal justice, supported housing or rehabilitation setting. Previous experience in a leadership or senior role within a similar setting. Strong organisational and time-management skills. Ability to build effective partnerships with external organisations and community groups. Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage staff and residents effectively. This role is mainly Monday to Friday, but we do ask for a bit of flexibility. Occasionally, there may be a couple of later evenings and some part-day weekend work, depending on business needs.

Desirable Criteria:

Relevant qualifications in criminal justice or social care or a related field. Knowledge of safeguarding policies and procedures. Experience delivering training. Understanding of Equality, Inclusion, and Diversity (EID) in the workplace. Relevant qualifications in social care, criminal justice, or a related field.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your experience and how you meet the specific requirements set out. Please include relevant examples to demonstrate these abilities. Please ensure that your application is no more than 2 x A4 Sides.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 39,500.00 per year

Work authorisation:

United Kingdom (preferred)
Work Location: In person