JOB DESCRIPTION:

We are looking for an enthusiastic and experienced Deputy Manager to join our team. As a Deputy Manager, you will work closely with the Home Manager to ensure the delivery of high-quality care, support, and safeguarding for the children and young people in our care. This role offers the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable children by leading a dedicated team and ensuring that the home is a safe, nurturing, and positive environment for all children.

KEY REQUIREMENTS:

• Experience working in a children’s residential setting.
• A minimum of a Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or equivalent); a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Health and Social Care (or equivalent) is highly desirable.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate, guide, and manage a team.
• In-depth understanding of child development, safeguarding procedures, and relevant legislation (e.g., Ofsted standards, Children’s Homes regulations).
• Proven ability in managing behavior, including the use of positive behavior management techniques and de-escalation strategies.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with children, families, and external professionals.
• A passion for supporting vulnerable children and young people to achieve their potential and improve their well-being.
• Ability to manage complex and sometimes challenging situations calmly and effectively.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• A flexible approach to working hours, including evenings, weekends, and on-call duties.

DESIRABLE SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience as a Deputy Manager or in a senior role within a children’s home or similar environment.
• Knowledge of risk management and care plan development.
• First Aid qualification.
• Understanding of the National Minimum Standards for Children’s Homes and Ofsted regulations.

• Leadership & Support: Assist the Home Manager in the daily management and operational oversight of the home, leading by example and supporting the staff team to deliver the highest standards of care.
• Care Planning: Ensure that individual care plans are created, implemented, and regularly reviewed to meet the needs of each child, ensuring they receive the appropriate care, support, and guidance.
• Team Management: Supervise, train, and mentor care staff to ensure the team is motivated, well-informed, and delivering quality care in line with the home’s ethos and regulatory requirements.
• Behavior Management: Lead on implementing behavior management strategies, ensuring a calm and structured environment while managing challenging behavior effectively and positively.
• Safeguarding: Ensure the safety and welfare of all children and young people in the home, reporting and addressing safeguarding concerns promptly and in accordance with policies.
• Collaborative Working: Work closely with social workers, teachers, external professionals, and families to ensure a holistic approach to the children’s care and development.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that the home complies with all regulatory and legislative requirements, including Ofsted regulations, and maintain high standards of practice, keeping up to date with industry developments.
• On-Call Support: Provide on-call support outside of normal working hours as needed, providing guidance to the team and ensuring the smooth running of the home.
• Quality Assurance: Support the Home Manager in monitoring the quality of care delivered and contribute to the development and implementation of improvement plans.
• Administrative Tasks: Maintain accurate records, including daily logs, incident reports, risk assessments, and care plans, ensuring compliance with confidentiality and legal requirements.