Children's Deputy Manager

Key Responsibilities Leadership & Team Management · Support the Registered Manager in leading the home, deputising in their absence · Mentor, guide, and supervise Team Leaders and staff to achieve high standards · Conduct regular supervisions, appraisals, and performance reviews · Assist with recruitment, induction, and training of staff · Plan and manage staff rotas to meet the needs of children and maintain safe staffing levels Care & Support · Ensure high-quality, child-centred care is delivered consistently across the home · Support children in daily routines, education, activities, and life skills development · Build positive relationships with children and families while promoting a safe and nurturing environment Safeguarding & Professional Practice · Promote and maintain a strong safeguarding culture throughout the home · Ensure care plans, risk assessments, and behaviour management strategies are followed consistently · Support staff in managing challenging behaviour and maintaining professional boundaries · Ensure accurate recording and reporting, and contribute to care planning and reviews Compliance & Operational Oversight · Ensure the home meets regulatory requirements, including Ofsted standards · Support the Registered Manager in auditing records, monitoring policies, and maintaining quality standards · Oversee health and safety, fire safety, and risk assessments · Contribute to budgeting, resource management, and operational planning Partnership & Development · Build positive relationships with families, social workers, and other professionals · Support children in maintaining meaningful connections where appropriate · Undertake mandatory and ongoing professional development, and support staff to do the same Other Duties · Ensure compliance with organisational policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements · Promote equality, diversity, and inclusion in practice · Undertake additional duties as required to support the safe and effective running of the home · Model the organisation’s values in practice and ensure they are embedded across the team Qualifications Essential * Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare or equivalent * Enhanced DBS check valid for working with children and young people Desirable * Level 5 leadership/management qualification in residential childcare * Experience as a Team Leader or Deputy Manager * Experience supervising or mentoring staff * Full UK driving licence Skills & Attributes Essential * Genuine motivation to make a difference to children’s lives * Calm, reflective, and resilient under pressure * Strong leadership, mentoring, and supervisory skills * Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal * Commitment to safeguarding and promoting children’s welfare * Ability to manage competing priorities and support a high-performing team Desirable * Experience working within a regulated residential care environment * Experience supporting children with complex needs or challenging behaviours * Budgeting or operational management experience Knowledge Essential * Understanding of the needs of vulnerable children and young people * Knowledge of safeguarding, child protection, and residential care regulations * Awareness of equality, diversity, and anti-discriminatory practice Desirable * Knowledge of behaviour management strategies and risk assessment * Understanding of staff supervision and coaching * Understanding of HR processes relevant to residential care, including recruitment, disciplinary and grievance procedures, and performance improvement plans Living Our Values Essential * Demonstrates professional, respectful, and accountable behaviour * Acts with integrity and consistency, even in challenging situations * Communicates openly and works collaboratively with others * Shows compassion, patience, and commitment to supporting children * Takes responsibility for their development and contributes positively to team culture