Deputy Manager Childrens Home

Job Title: Deputy Manager – Children’s Home

Reports To: Registered Manager

Purpose of the Role

To support the Registered Manager in the effective day-to-day operation of the Children’s Home, ensuring that children and young people receive high-quality care in a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment. The Deputy Manager will assist in leading the staff team, maintaining regulatory compliance, and promoting positive outcomes for all young people.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Registered Manager in the overall management and operation of the home.
• Act as the lead in the absence of the Registered Manager.
• Ensure the safeguarding and welfare of children and young people is always prioritised.
• Support the development, implementation, and review of care plans, risk assessments, and placement plans.
• Supervise, mentor, and support Residential Support Workers and Senior Residential Support Workers.
• Assist with recruitment, induction, training, and performance management of staff.
• Monitor and maintain compliance with Ofsted regulations, Children’s Homes Regulations, and company policies.
• Conduct audits, quality assurance checks, and contribute to continuous improvement plans.
• Promote positive outcomes in education, health, emotional wellbeing, behaviour, and independence skills.
• Develop effective relationships with families, social workers, local authorities, schools, and other professionals.
• Assist with rota planning and staffing requirements, including participation in the on-call rota.

Essential Requirements

• Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or equivalent).
• Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare (or willingness to work towards).
• Previous experience in a children’s residential care setting.
• Experience supervising or leading staff.
• Sound knowledge of safeguarding procedures, childcare legislation, and Ofsted regulations.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organisational skills.
• Full UK driving licence.

Desirable Requirements

• Experience as a Senior Residential Support Worker or Team Leader.
• Experience supporting children with emotional and behavioural difficulties (EBD), learning disabilities, or complex needs.
• Experience participating in Ofsted inspections and compliance audits.

Key Competencies

• Leadership and staff development
• Safeguarding and child protection
• Relationship building
• Problem-solving and decision-making
• Organisational and time management skills
• Resilience and ability to work under pressure
• Record keeping and report writing
• Child-centred approach to care

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