Job Description
Role: Deputy Service Manager – Autism Specialist Service
Location: Stockton
Contract: Full time permanent
Salary: £37, pa plus benefits
Defour Partnership is working closely with a Social Care Charity who excel in their field and offer a values driven supportive environment for their staff to thrive in. Are you an experienced care professional ready to further your career in leadership? We’re looking for a passionate and driven Deputy Service Manager to support the delivery of an outstanding residential service for individuals with autism and complex needs.
💼 The Role
As Deputy Service Manager, you’ll play a key role in supporting the Registered Manager with the day-to-day running of the service. You’ll lead by example, inspire your team, and ensure high-quality, person-centred support is consistently delivered.
You’ll also step up to deputise in the Manager’s absence, taking responsibility for the service and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
🌱 What You’ll Be Doing
Supporting the leadership and development of a high-performing care team
Promoting person-centred, outcome-focused support that enables independence
Embedding best practice in autism support and Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)
Coaching and mentoring staff through hands-on leadership
Monitoring quality, compliance, and continuous improvement across the service
Supporting recruitment, training, supervisions, and performance management
Ensuring the service meets and exceeds CQC standards and regulatory requirements
Working collaboratively with professionals, families, and individuals we support
💙 About You
We’re looking for someone who is:
Experienced in a leadership role within an autism or complex needs service
Knowledgeable in Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) approaches
Passionate about delivering high-quality, person-centred care
A natural leader who can motivate and inspire others
Organised, proactive, and solution-focused
Confident in managing teams, performance, and service quality
Flexible to work across a rota including evenings, weekends, and on-call
✅ Essential Requirements
Level 3 Diploma in Health & Social Care (or equivalent)
Minimum 3 years’ experience in a senior role within a relevant service
Strong understanding of safeguarding, compliance, and care standards
Experience in support planning, reporting, and audits
Full UK driving licence
⭐ Desirable
Leadership & Management qualification (or willingness to work towards)
PBS Coach qualification (or similar)
Experience working towards service accreditation
🎯 What’s in It for You?
Opportunity to progress into a Registered Manager role
Ongoing training and professional development
Supportive leadership environment
The chance to make a genuine difference in people’s lives
If you’re ready to take the next step in your care career and lead a team delivering exceptional support, we’d love to hear from you.
To apply or find out more, please contact Defour Partnership.