Children's Deputy Manager

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