Are you passionate about making a real difference in the lives of children and young people with complex health needs and disabilities? We're looking for a committed and compassionate Assistant Manager to join our short breaks residential team providing children with a safe, nurturing, and structured environment where they can feel valued and supported. As Assistant Manager, you'll work closely with the Registered Manager and play an active role in the day-to-day running of the service. You'll support the management team to provide clear leadership to staff helping to recruit, motivate, and develop the team to deliver high-quality, person-centred care. Your role will also include assisting with inductions, in-house training, and staff supervision, while promoting a supportive culture that fosters professional growth and emotional resilience. This is a varied role that includes working with children and young people who may have significant medical needs and display behaviours that challenge. You will work in a multi-disciplinary manner with a wide range of internal and external agencies to ensure each child's care is coordinated, safe, and personalised. You'll support the development and implementation of care plans, behaviour strategies, and risk assessments, always promoting emotional and social development. You'll also help ensure positive links are maintained with families, friends, and carers. At times, this may include providing emotional support to families and children. In such circumstances, it's essential to show empathy, compassion, and professional strength. This role may require you to support across our other residential sites when needed. You should be comfortable with the emotional demands of the role and committed to delivering care that empowers and supports young people to grow in confidence and independence. What we're looking for: Experience working with children with complex needs and behaviours that challenge Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or equivalent) - with a commitment to working towards Level 5 Strong leadership, organisational and problem-solving skills Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities A genuine commitment to child-centred, inclusive care The ability to inspire, guide and support a diverse team Willingness to work on a rota that includes evenings, weekends, nights, and Bank Holidays Ability to cope with emotionally demanding situations with empathy and professionalism Why Wakefield Council? Full-time permanent post - 37 hours per week Generous annual leave entitlement A comprehensive training programme to support your professional development and career progression Access to Wellbeing Coaching, support for carers, and a strong sense of belonging within the team Discounted and subsidised public transport including Arriva Bus Annual Travel Ticket and MetroCard (NTL) Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) Access to a wide range of employee benefits including: Discounted gym memberships and leisure facilities Free 12-week personal trainer programme Cycle to work scheme Retail, entertainment, health, and lifestyle discounts This is more than just a job it's an opportunity to make a meaningful and lasting impact on the lives of children and young people in our care. If you are ready to take the next step in your career and want to work in a supportive, values-driven environment, we'd love to hear from you. For more information contact: Darren Higgins/ Karen Lee 01977 722815 To apply please click the Apply Now link below.