The Opportunity

We are recruiting a Deputy Manager for a regulated children’s residential home.

This is a senior leadership role supporting the Registered Manager in delivering high-quality, child-centred care. You will help lead the home, embed culture and standards, and ensure full compliance with Ofsted regulations.

This role requires operational oversight, safeguarding leadership and the ability to manage and develop a high-performing team.

The Role

Leadership & Team Management

• Support the Registered Manager in leading the home and deputise in their absence • Supervise and mentor Team Leaders and Residential Support Workers • Conduct supervisions, appraisals and performance reviews • Support recruitment, induction and staff development • Plan and manage rotas to ensure safe staffing levels

Care & Support

• Ensure consistent delivery of high-quality, child-centred care • Support children with routines, education and life skills • Promote resilience, stability and positive outcomes • Maintain a safe, structured and nurturing home environment

Safeguarding & Professional Practice

• Lead and maintain a strong safeguarding culture • Ensure care plans, risk assessments and behaviour strategies are followed • Support staff in managing complex or challenging behaviours • Oversee accurate recording and reporting

Compliance & Operational Oversight

• Support regulatory compliance in line with Ofsted standards • Assist with audits, quality monitoring and policy implementation • Oversee health and safety and risk management • Contribute to budgeting and operational planning

Partnership Working

• Build strong relationships with families, social workers and external professionals • Promote meaningful connections for children where appropriate

Essential Requirements

• Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or equivalent) • Enhanced DBS suitable for working with children and young people • Experience within a regulated children’s residential environment • Experience supporting children with complex needs or challenging behaviours • Experience supervising or mentoring staff • Strong safeguarding knowledge • Ability to manage competing priorities • Willingness to work shifts, weekends and sleep-ins

Desirable

• Level 5 qualification in Leadership/Management (or working towards) • Experience as a Team Leader or Deputy Manager • Operational or budgeting experience • Full UK driving licence • Knowledge of HR processes within residential care

Ideal Candidate

You are calm, structured and resilient under pressure. You lead by example and hold others to high standards. You understand Ofsted frameworks and regulatory compliance. You combine compassion with accountability.

You are ready to step into a senior leadership role where safeguarding, culture and quality are non-negotiable.

What’s On Offer

• Permanent senior leadership role • Career progression within a regulated children’s service • Ongoing professional development • Opportunity to influence culture, quality and outcomes