Join Our Team as a Deputy Manager!
Contract Type: Full-time, 12-month fixed-term contract
Salary: £31,668.00 - £36,036.00 per annum (dependent on qualifications and experience)
Location: Poole
Specific Hours: 40 hours per week
Why Choose Us?
At Budwood, part of Polaris Community, we are dedicated to creating a nurturing environment for young people in our Children's Homes and 16+ Supported Accommodation. Our mission is to provide a stable, caring home where young individuals can thrive, build confidence, and develop essential life skills for a successful future.
Your Role
We are on the lookout for a passionate and motivated Deputy Manager to support our two Children's Residential Homes in Poole. In this role, you will lead a dedicated team, ensure high standards of care, and guide young people towards independent living.
Key Responsibilities
* Act as Home Manager in their absence, with guidance from the Area Manager.
* Support and motivate the staff team through supervision, coaching, mentoring, and development planning.
* Ensure high-quality care and accommodation for young people, aligned with placement plans.
* Build trusted relationships with young people, promoting safety, respect, and personal development.
* Champion a culture of listening, dignity, and empowerment for all young people.
* Promote collaborative working with families, education providers, health services, and local authorities.
* Ensure staff are trained in safeguarding and compliant with policies and refresher requirements.
* Be an ambassador for Budwood's therapeutic model, CATCH.
* Assist with rotas, budget management, and timesheet oversight.
* Lead new staff inductions and conduct absence review meetings.
* Oversee record-keeping (e.g., risk assessments, placement plans, weekly reports), ensuring accuracy and clarity.
* Guide the team in supporting young people's learning and emotional development.
* Manage home finances when needed.
* Ensure domestic standards are high, including meal preparation and home maintenance.
* Support inspections, audits, and uphold health & safety and fire safety compliance.
* Participate in the on-call rota.
* Engage in supervision, appraisal, and continuous professional development.
What We Need From You
* Diploma Level 3 in Health and Social Care, Children and Young People or equivalent, or working towards.
* At least 2 years' experience in a residential children's home or Supported Living service.
* Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.
* Understanding of The Children Act 1989 and 2004 and Supported Accommodation Quality Standards.
* Knowledge of safeguarding, health & safety, and compliance in care settings.
* Experience in residential care, youth work, or working with young people with Emotional Behavioural Disorders (EBD).
* Strong leadership and team management skills.
* Excellent communication and organisational abilities.
* A proactive, flexible, and child-centred approach.
Why Work With Us?
At Budwood Limited, we are proud to be an equal opportunities employer, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults, and we expect all staff to share this commitment. Successful applicants will undergo an enhanced DBS check.
Join us in making a difference in the lives of young people. Your journey starts here!