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- Tasks: Lead and inspire a team to support children with disabilities in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Join The Whistlestop, a caring residential short breaks home in Randalstown.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, competitive salary, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Why this job: Be part of an innovative service that positively impacts young lives every day.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Diploma in Health & Social Care and relevant experience in residential care.
- Other info: Permanent role with excellent career development opportunities and on-call cover.
The predicted salary is between 36427 - 48749 £ per year.
Are you ready to lead, inspire, and make a real difference in the lives of children and young people with disabilities? The Whistlestop, our residential short breaks home in Randalstown, is looking for a passionate and skilled Deputy Residential Manager to join us on this journey!
Why Join Us? This is your chance to be at the heart of an innovative service, where your expertise will help create a nurturing, supportive environment for children and young people to thrive. You will work closely with the Registered Manager to bring our vision to life, ensuring that every short break at The Whistlestop has a lasting positive impact.
Responsibilities:
- Support the Registered Manager in maintaining high standards and compliance with RQIA regulations.
- Line manage residential staff.
- Take charge and lead the team in the Manager's absence.
- Lead on staff planning to include staff rotas and shift planning around the child specific needs for each day.
- Work collaboratively with the Trust and parents/carers in the development of care plans for the children and young people using the service.
- Provide a safe, caring, and stimulating environment where children and young people flourish.
- Handle safeguarding concerns with professionalism and care.
- Deliver on our commitment to excellence by writing insightful, professional reports.
- Train and develop the staff team in line with the requirements of the regulator, RQIA and the Children's Home Minimum Standards.
Skills and Qualifications:
- Hold the Level 3 Diploma in Health & Social Care (Northern Ireland) within your first period of Registration and be willing to work towards the Level 4 Certificate in Principles in Leadership & Management (Northern Ireland).
- Within the last 5 years, worked for at least 3 years in a position relevant to the residential care of children.
- Knowledge of completing staff, volunteer or student supervision.
- Experience in responding and coordinating responses to safeguarding issues.
- Must be registered or willing to register with Northern Ireland Care Council (NISCC) on appointment.
- A valid driving licence or alternatively be able to demonstrate how you can meet the mobility requirements of the post.
Further Information:
- Contract: Permanent (Subject to Funding)
- Hours: 37 hours per week. The hours can be worked flexibly across the week. Due to the nature of the service, there is an expectation that you will work a minimum of two days per month on either a Saturday or Sunday. Additionally, the role requires on-call cover on a rota basis alongside the Registered Manager.
- Closing Date: Midnight, Sunday 15th February 2026
- Interview Date: Week commencing 23rd Feb 2026
- Important Notes: Applicants must be registered with the NI Social Care Council (NISCC) or willing to register by appointment. A waiting list will be maintained for similar roles for up to 12 months. Successful applicants will be required to undertake an Enhanced Access NI with Child Barred List Check.
Deputy Residential Manager in Randalstown employer: Barnardo's
Contact Detail:
Barnardo's Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Residential Manager in Randalstown
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the childcare and social work sectors. Let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities like the Deputy Residential Manager role at The Whistlestop. You never know who might have the inside scoop or can put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the organisation and its values. Understand their mission to support children and young people with disabilities. This will help you align your answers with what they’re looking for, showing that you’re not just a fit for the role, but for their team too!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Think of specific examples where you've led a team or handled challenging situations in residential care. Being able to share these experiences will demonstrate your capability and passion for the role, making you stand out as a candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining The Whistlestop team. So, get your application in and let’s make a difference together!
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Residential Manager in Randalstown
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your passion for working with children and young people shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in their lives, so share your experiences and motivations that drive you to apply for this role.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight the skills and experiences that match the job description. We’re looking for specific examples of your past work in residential care, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Be Professional Yet Personal: While we want you to be professional in your writing, don’t forget to add a personal touch. Use a friendly tone that reflects your personality, as we value authenticity. This is your chance to connect with us beyond just your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you’ll find all the necessary information about the position there too!
How to prepare for a job interview at Barnardo's
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re familiar with the key responsibilities of a Deputy Residential Manager. Brush up on RQIA regulations and the specific needs of children and young people with disabilities. This will show that you’re not just interested in the role, but that you’re ready to hit the ground running.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, let your passion for working with children and young people shine through. Share personal experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to making a difference in their lives. This is your chance to connect emotionally with the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked about how you would handle specific situations, especially around safeguarding and staff management. Think of examples from your past experience where you successfully navigated challenges, and be ready to discuss your thought process and outcomes.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions prepared. Inquire about the team dynamics, the support available for staff development, or how they measure success in their care plans. This shows that you’re genuinely interested in the role and the organisation.
