Residential Deputy Care Manager

Job Title: Deputy/Registered Manager - Children's Residential Care Home

Location: Essex & London.

Salary: £35-45K

Contract Type: Full-Time, Permanent

Working Hours: 40 hours per week (may include evenings, weekends, and on-call duties as required)

Job Summary

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Deputy manager to transit into Registered Manager role to lead and manage the Client Children's Care Homes. This role requires a compassionate individual who is committed to providing high-quality care and support to children and young people with complex needs. As the interim Deputy/Registered Manager, you will be responsible for the overall management of the home, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, promoting the welfare of the children, and leading a team of care professionals to deliver outstanding care.

Key Responsibilities

• Leadership & Management:
• Provide effective leadership and management to the residential care team, promoting a culture of continuous improvement and high-quality care.
• Ensure the home operates in line with Ofsted regulations, Children's Home Regulations, and Quality Standards.
• Develop and implement policies, procedures, and practices to ensure a safe and supportive environment for children.
• Conduct regular team meetings, supervisions, and appraisals to support staff development and performance.
• Child-Centered Care:
• Promote the physical, emotional, and social well-being of children and young people in your care.
• Develop and oversee personalized care plans for each child, ensuring their individual needs are met and they achieve positive outcomes.
• Foster a nurturing and therapeutic environment that encourages children's growth, independence, and resilience.
• Work collaboratively with social workers, families, schools, and other agencies to support the best interests of the children.
• Compliance & Safeguarding:
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements, including Ofsted inspections, health and safety, and safeguarding protocols.
• Lead safeguarding practices within the home, ensuring all staff are trained and adhere to safeguarding policies.
• Investigate any safeguarding concerns, incidents, or complaints promptly and report to relevant authorities as required.
• Operational Management:
• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the home, including budgeting, staffing, and resource management.
• Maintain accurate records, care plans, and reports in line with regulatory and organizational requirements.
• Ensure the home is well-maintained, safe, and meets the needs of children and staff.
• Manage recruitment, retention, and development of staff to build a skilled and motivated team.
• Quality Assurance:
• Monitor and evaluate the quality of care provided, implementing improvements where necessary.
• Prepare for and manage Ofsted inspections, ensuring the home meets or exceeds the required standards.
• Regularly review care practices, outcomes, and feedback to drive service excellence.

Qualifications & Experience

• Essential:
• Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care and Children and Young People's Services (or equivalent).
• Proven experience as a Registered Manager in a children's residential care setting.
• In-depth knowledge of Ofsted regulations, Children's Home Regulations, and Quality Standards.
• Strong understanding of safeguarding policies, child protection procedures, and care planning.
• Experience in managing budgets, resources, and staff effectively.
• Full UK driving license and the ability to travel as required.
• Desirable:
• Experience working with children with complex needs, including emotional and behavioural difficulties (EBD).
• Knowledge of therapeutic approaches and interventions.
• Demonstrable track record of achieving positive Ofsted ratings.

Skills & Competencies

• Exceptional leadership and management skills.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building abilities.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Empathetic, patient, and resilient approach to working with vulnerable children.
• Ability to handle challenging situations calmly and professionally.
• Commitment to promoting diversity, equality, and inclusion.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with performance-related bonuses.
• Comprehensive induction program and ongoing professional development.
• Opportunities for career progression within the organization.
• Generous holiday entitlement.
• Company pension scheme.
• Employee assistance program and well-being support.
• Other benefits specific to your organization