Are you an experienced deputy manager, senior support worker or team leader passionate about supporting autistic people to live happy, meaningful and as independent as possible?
Autism West Midlands is a leading charity in the West Midlands for people on the autism spectrum. We use our expertise to enrich the lives of autistic people and those who love and care for them. Our passionate, expert staff and volunteers work across all age groups and abilities, by providing personalised support.
Where will you be working?
You will be working at our residential home 'Upper Ford Lodge' based in Droitwich Spa.
Upper Ford Lodge is home to 9 autistic adults who enjoy meaningful activities and accessing the community. Upper Ford Lodge benefits from a built-in trampoline, sensory garden, sensory room and a communal kitchen for group cooking sessions. Upper Ford Lodge also comprises of 2 lounge areas where residents can choose to partake in crafting activities, 'Friday fun days' or even an international night that takes place once a month in which different cultures are celebrated with traditional food, activities and decorations.
Working alongside the Registered Care Manager, you will play a key role in leading the team, maintaining high-quality care and ensuring the people we support are at the heart of everything we do.
Working days will include three office-based days and two days of direct support each week.
The Shifts are 7.00am - 2.30pm and 2.15pm - 9.45pm. All staff work a mixture of early and late shifts as well as working every other weekend.
As the Deputy Manager at Upper Ford Lodge, you will be responsible for:
- Lead and support the team; working alongside the RCM to provide strong day-to-day leadership, support and developing seniors and support workers through supervision, mentoring and team meetings.
- Ensure the people we support receive high-quality, person-centred support that promotes choice, independence, well being and meaningful opportunities within their home and community.
- Maintain quality and compliance; oversee safeguarding, medication, health & safety, risk management, record keeping and quality audits, ensuring the service meets CQC and organisational standards.
- Work in partnership; build positive relationships with families, advocates, healthcare professionals and other agencies to ensure effective communication, support and outcomes.
- Support the running of the service; assist with rota planning, staffing, recruitment, induction, performance management, budgets and the smooth day-to-day of the service.
- Lead when required; take responsibility for the service in the absence of the RCM, manage incidents, complaints, inspections and other operational matters.
- Contributing to the on-call rota.
What we are looking for:
- Previous experience in adult social care, ideally within residential services.
- Experience supporting autistic adults and/or people with learning disabilities.
- Experience supervising or managing a care team.
- A good understanding of person-centred care, safeguarding and the mental capacity act.
- Knowledge of CQC requirements
- The ability to lead by example and remain calm under pressure.
- Level 3 qualification in health & social care or equivalent
- A willingness to work towards a level 5 in leadership & management qualification is desirable.
Benefits:
- Starting salary of £30,104.52 per annum
- A supportive management team
- Up to 33 days annual leave
- Free DBS check paid for by Autism West Midlands
- Employee assistance scheme providing support to you and your family
- Specialist autism training you are paid to attend and travel to
- All staff are provided with a Life assurance
- Company Sick Pay Scheme
- Free onsite parking
- Additional payments for on call
- Refer a friend scheme – £200 for each referral!
As the Deputy Manager you will play a key role in developing the service whilst enriching the lives of the people we support.
We do reserve the right to close the advert earlier if we receive a high volume of applicants.
Interviews will take place week commencing the 2nd of November 2026
If you do not receive contact by Friday the 30th of October 2026, please assume that you have not been successful.
Autism West Midlands is an equal opportunities employer and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.
If you have a disability or identify as neurodivergent and require reasonable adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know.
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Deputy Manager – Upper Ford Lodge employer: AUTISM WEST MIDLANDS
Autism West Midlands is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being of its staff and the communities it serves. With a strong commitment to employee growth, you will have the opportunity to lead a dedicated maintenance team in a supportive work culture that values autonomy and impact. Located at the head office Sense Touchbase Pears, you will enjoy a collaborative environment that fosters innovation and ensures meaningful contributions to health and safety across various services.
