Job Description

- Registered Manager (Children's Home)

Location:

Havering, Essex

Salary:

45,000 - 50,000 per annum (depending on experience)

Hours:

40 hours per week (with flexibility to respond to safeguarding matters outside of these hours)

About Us

First Steps Residential is committed to providing safe, nurturing, and supportive environments where children and young people can thrive. We are opening a new residential home in Havering and are seeking a passionate and experienced

Registered Manager

to lead the team, ensure the highest standards of care, and promote positive outcomes for the children in our care.

Role Overview

As the Registered Manager, you will be responsible for the day-to-day running of the home in line with the

Children's Homes (England) Regulations 2015

and the

Quality Standards

. You will provide leadership, direction, and support to the staff team, ensuring that children receive the highest quality care in a safe, stimulating, and nurturing environment.

This role requires resilience, strong safeguarding knowledge, and the ability to balance operational management with a child-centred approach. You will play a critical role in shaping the ethos, culture, and success of the home.

Key Responsibilities

Take full responsibility for the operational management of the home, ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation, regulations, and Ofsted requirements. Provide strong and inspirational leadership to staff, developing a culture of professionalism, teamwork, and continuous improvement. Safeguard and promote the welfare of children, ensuring that individual care plans, risk assessments, and placement plans are implemented and regularly reviewed. Build and maintain effective relationships with children, families, social workers, external agencies, and the wider community. Oversee recruitment, supervision, training, and development of staff to ensure a skilled and motivated workforce. Monitor, evaluate, and report on the home's performance, ensuring continuous improvement and readiness for Ofsted inspections. Manage budgets and resources effectively, maintaining financial sustainability and value for money. Be available and willing to work outside normal hours in the event of safeguarding concerns or emergencies.

Requirements

Essential:

Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare (England)

(or equivalent). This qualification is vital, as it is a regulatory requirement for registered managers under Ofsted. It demonstrates the knowledge, leadership skills, and practical expertise needed to run a children's home in compliance with legislation and quality standards.*
Significant experience of working in a children's residential home, including experience at a supervisory or managerial level. A strong understanding of safeguarding, child protection, and the legal framework governing children's residential care. Excellent leadership, organisational, and communication skills. The ability to build strong relationships and maintain professional boundaries. Flexibility and resilience to respond to the demands of the role.

Desirable:

Previous experience as a Registered Manager with Ofsted inspection outcomes. Strong links with local authorities, commissioners, and partner agencies. Knowledge of therapeutic approaches to supporting children with complex needs.

Perks & Benefits

Competitive salary (45,000 - 50,000 depending on experience).

Performance-based bonuses.

On-site parking.

Casual dress policy.

Free meals provided.

Autonomy in the role

with full support from the senior leadership team. Opportunities for career progression within a growing organisation.

Why Join Us?

This is more than just a management role - it is an opportunity to truly make a difference in the lives of children and young people. By joining First Steps Residential, you will have the autonomy to shape a home that feels safe, stable, and inspiring, while also enjoying the support and investment of a dedicated organisation.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 45,000.00-50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Casual dress Company events Company pension Discounted or free food Free parking On-site parking
Ability to commute/relocate:

Upminster RM14: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)
Application question(s):

Level 5 qualification or working towards
Experience:

children's home: 3 years (required)
Language:

English (required)
Work authorisation:

United Kingdom (required)
Location:

Upminster RM14 (preferred)
Work Location: In person