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