Job Description

Responsible Individual - Liberty Trail Children's Homes (McGoldrick House, Nottinghamshire)

About Liberty Trail Children's Homes - McGoldrick House

McGoldrick House, part of

Liberty Trail Children's Homes

, provides high-quality residential care and accommodation for up to four young people aged 8-17 with

Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH)

needs and

mild learning difficulties

.
Our home's ethos is to

"Empower and Nurture"

- creating a therapeutic, trauma-informed environment that promotes trust, healing, and independence through

Dyadic Developmental Practice (DDP)

and the

PACE model

(Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, Empathy).

We are passionate about delivering exceptional care that transforms lives, helps young people build resilience, and supports them in achieving their individual goals.

The Role of the Responsible Individual

As the

Responsible Individual

, you will take

strategic leadership

and

operational oversight

of McGoldrick House, ensuring full compliance with

Ofsted regulations

,

Children's Homes (England) Regulations 2015

, and

Quality Standards

.
You'll work collaboratively with the

Registered Manager

, senior leaders, and local authorities to guarantee outstanding care, safeguarding, and governance across all areas of service delivery.

This is a pivotal role for a passionate, values-driven leader who believes every child deserves to feel safe, loved, and supported to thrive.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Governance

Lead the overall operational management and quality assurance of McGoldrick House. Ensure compliance with all regulatory frameworks, including Ofsted, Children's Homes Regulations (2015), and Working Together to Safeguard Children. Develop and embed the home's ethos, aims, and objectives in line with Liberty Trail's mission to empower and nurture young people.

Safeguarding & Quality Assurance

Act as the

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

alongside the Registered Manager. Oversee safeguarding practices, ensuring every young person's welfare and protection is central to decision-making. Monitor monthly KPI reports (e.g., incidents, education, missing from care, physical interventions) and drive improvement plans. Oversee

Regulation 44

and

Regulation 45

reports and ensure continuous improvement through reflective practice.

Team Leadership & Development

Support and supervise the Registered Manager to lead a high-performing, compassionate team. Drive a culture of professional growth through reflective supervision, mentoring, and development. Ensure staff are trained in therapeutic and trauma-informed approaches such as DDP and CPI.

Operational Excellence

Collaborate with Directors to implement strategies, budgets, and service development plans. Oversee workforce planning, recruitment, and retention in line with Liberty Trail's safer recruitment policy. Maintain strong relationships with local authorities, Ofsted, commissioners, and partner agencies.

Culture & Ethos

Champion Liberty Trail's values of

respect, integrity, compassion, and empowerment

. Promote equality, diversity, and inclusion across the service. Ensure the home remains a safe, nurturing, and inspiring environment for children and staff alike.

About You

Essential Qualifications & Experience

Level 5 Diploma in Leadership & Management for Residential Childcare (or equivalent). Social Work qualification (DipSW, CQSW, or equivalent) - desirable. Extensive experience (minimum 5 years) in residential children's care, including senior or RI-level leadership. Proven experience in working with children with SEMH, trauma, and behavioural needs. Strong knowledge of Ofsted frameworks, safeguarding legislation, and regulatory compliance.

Skills & Attributes

A passionate advocate for children and young people. Exceptional leadership, communication, and mentoring skills. High emotional intelligence, empathy, and integrity. Ability to drive excellence, lead inspections, and maintain 'Good' or 'Outstanding' Ofsted ratings. Reflective, resilient, and committed to continuous improvement.

Why Join Liberty Trail Children's Homes?

A supportive, values-driven organisation with a genuine commitment to improving young lives. Ongoing professional development, supervision, and leadership coaching. Opportunities to shape policy and contribute to Liberty Trail's growing portfolio of therapeutic homes. Competitive salary and benefits package.

How to Apply

If you are an experienced and passionate children's home professional looking to make a meaningful difference, we'd love to hear from you.

Job Types: Part-time, Freelance

Pay: 938.49-2,323.15 per month

Expected hours: 8 - 16 per week

Work Location: In person