At Avenues, we’re more than just a workplace — we’re a community where people feel valued, supported, and empowered to achieve great things together.
We’re delighted to be recruiting an Assistant Service Manager to join our team across two of our Stowmarket services – Bridge Street and Takers Lane. It would be preferable if you hold a UK driving licence as this role includes providing cover to an on‑call rota. You should also be able to cover occasional Sleep‑In shifts. Our Takers Lane service includes 3 males with mild learning disabilities and autism. One of the gentlemen we support here has a stoma. Bridge Street supports two females. One lady has a Positive Behaviour Support plan, Speech and Language Therapy (SALT) guidelines and Pica‑like behaviours. The other lady has an Acquired Brain Injury and is a wheelchair user, so the position also requires moving and handling knowledge and experience.
The Role
As an Assistant Service Manager, you will work in close partnership with the Service Manager to support the effective day‑to‑day running of the service. You’ll provide hands‑on leadership, inspiring and mentoring staff to deliver high‑quality, person‑centred support using Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) and Active Support. Your focus will be on promoting meaningful activities, positive relationships, and genuine inclusion.
You’ll support compliance with regulatory and statutory requirements, relevant legislation, and organisational policies and procedures, and you’ll confidently act on behalf of the Service Manager when required. Throughout everything you do, you’ll champion high standards, dignity, and inclusion for the people we support and the teams you lead.
What We’re Looking For
We’re looking for an enthusiastic and proactive Assistant Service Manager with experience in supporting people with learning disabilities and complex needs. You’ll have strong practice leadership skills, experience coaching and developing teams, and a clear understanding of how to balance safeguarding with positive risk‑taking.
Flexibility is essential. You’ll be expected to work across rota patterns, including bank holidays and shifts between 7:00am–2:30pm, 2:30pm–10:00pm and some sleep‑in shifts. Occasionally, you may be required to work extended hours to provide one‑to‑one support, guidance, or staff supervision, including support for night staff when needed.
While not essential, being a driver with a full UK license is highly desirable, as it supports travel to the service and the use of service vehicles.
Benefits you can expect!
- High‑quality training that supports your career development.
- Paid enhanced DBS check.
- Flexible working.
- Shopping discount via Blue Light Card and The Benefits website.
- Paid annual leave (pro rata).
- Contributory pension scheme with life assurance.
- Free and confidential 24/7 access to a health portal, counselling and support.
- Recommend a Friend scheme – earn up to £500.
As part of our commitment to the Disability Confident Scheme, candidates who declare a disability and meet the essential criteria for this role will be offered the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities at interview.
Assistant Service Manager in Stowmarket employer: Avenues Group
At Avenues, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where your contributions truly matter. With flexible hours, comprehensive training, and a strong focus on employee wellbeing, we empower our staff to grow both personally and professionally while making a meaningful impact in the lives of those we support. Join us in creating joyful communities where everyone can thrive and enjoy fulfilling careers in social care.
