Deputy Manager Where Leadership Meets Heart
Location: Hitchin (SG5 1LA)
Salary: £33,000 £36,000 (depending on experience & qualifications)
Hours: Full-time, MondayFriday, 9am5pm (with shared on-call duties)
Contract: Permanent
Who We Are
Were not just a childrens residential home were a place where care feels genuine, where consistency builds trust, and where every small step forward for a young person matters deeply.
Our home has a strong reputation for providing stability, warmth, and structure for children and young people with emotional and behavioural needs. Were proud to be consistently rated Good by Ofsted but we never stop striving for Outstanding.
The Opportunity
This isnt a job for someone who wants to coast its for someone who cares, leads by example, and believes that every young person deserves a chance to rewrite their story.
As our Deputy Manager, youll work hand-in-hand with the Registered Manager to shape the culture of the home, inspire the team, and ensure that our care meets and exceeds Ofsted standards. Youll have a voice, real responsibility, and the chance to make lasting change for staff and for the young people we support.
What Youll Do
* Lead and support a passionate care team to deliver exceptional outcomes
* Ensure every childs care plan is lived, not just written
* Keep the home compliant, safe, and always ready for inspection
* Help manage rotas, budgets, and the smooth running of daily life
* Step in on shifts when needed because great leaders stay connected
* Build trusted relationships with young people, families, and professionals
* Champion independence, resilience, and emotional growth
What Youll Bring
* Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or equivalent) essential
* Level 5 in Leadership & Management or the motivation to achieve it
* 2+ years experience in a childrens residential setting
* Supervisory or senior experience thats built your confidence as a leader
* A solid understanding of safeguarding, child protection & Ofsted frameworks
* A full UK driving licence essential
* Above all, empathy, resilience, and a belief in potential
Why Join Us
We believe that people who care for others deserve to be cared for too. Heres how we look after our team:
Competitive salary £33,000£36,000
Genuine career progression & funded qualifications
Wellbeing and recognition schemes
An extra days annual leave for each year of service (up to 5)
Free meals while on shift
Free enhanced DBS check
Staff discounts, gym membership contribution & BUPA counselling support
Casual dress code because comfort counts
On-site parking and a warm, welcoming environment
Ready to Lead with Purpose?
If youre ready to bring compassion and consistency to a team that changes lives every day, wed love to hear from you.
Apply today and lets build something remarkable together.
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