At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Registered Manager in leading a Children's Residential Home and ensuring high-quality care.
- Company: Local Authority focused on providing nurturing environments for vulnerable children.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, ongoing training, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to creating positive outcomes for young people.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children and young people while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in residential childcare and a Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care required.
The predicted salary is between 24.56 - 24.56 £ per hour.
3 months contract with a Local Authority.
The Deputy Officer in Charge is responsible for supporting the Registered Manager in the effective leadership, management, and operation of the Children's Residential Home. The role ensures that children and young people receive high-quality care, support, protection, and opportunities that promote their wellbeing, development, independence, and positive outcomes. The post holder will help ensure the home operates in accordance with statutory regulations, safeguarding requirements, and organisational policies while creating a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment for vulnerable children and young people. The Deputy Officer in Charge will lead by example, supervise staff, contribute to service development, and deputise for the Manager when required.
Key Responsibilities
- Leadership and Management
- Support the Manager in the day-to-day operation and administration of the Children's Home.
- Deputise for the Manager in their absence and assume responsibility for the effective running of the service.
- Lead, motivate, supervise, and support staff to deliver high-quality care and achieve positive outcomes for young people.
- Assist in maintaining staff performance, professional standards, and continuous development.
- Promote a positive, inclusive, and supportive working environment.
- Care and Support of Children and Young People
- Ensure children and young people receive high-quality, person-centred care that meets their individual needs.
- Promote the emotional, physical, educational, social, cultural, and psychological wellbeing of young people.
- Support young people to develop independence, confidence, resilience, and life skills.
- Ensure young people are encouraged to express their views and actively participate in decisions affecting their lives.
- Maintain a safe and caring environment that promotes safeguarding and positive outcomes.
- Safeguarding and Compliance
- Ensure safeguarding practices are implemented and maintained in accordance with legislation and organisational policies.
- Promote and protect the welfare, rights, and best interests of children and young people.
- Challenge poor practice and take appropriate action where safeguarding concerns arise.
- Support compliance with The Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016 and other relevant legislation.
- Ensure accurate records, reports, and documentation are maintained to regulatory standards.
- Family and Community Engagement
- Develop and maintain positive relationships with families, carers, social workers, and external professionals.
- Promote meaningful consultation and participation with young people and their families.
- Encourage community integration through educational, recreational, and social opportunities.
- Build effective partnerships with local agencies and community resources.
- Financial and Resource Management
- Assist the Manager in monitoring delegated budgets and ensuring resources are used effectively.
- Ensure financial procedures are followed and expenditure is appropriately recorded.
- Promote value for money while maintaining high-quality service delivery.
- Meetings and Reporting
- Coordinate, attend, and chair meetings as required.
- Prepare assessments, reports, care plans, and management information.
- Contribute to reviews, planning meetings, and multi-agency discussions.
- Ensure meetings are conducted professionally and achieve agreed outcomes.
Essential Experience
- Proven experience working with children and young people within a residential childcare setting.
- Experience operating at a Senior Residential Support Worker, Team Leader, Senior Practitioner, or equivalent level.
- Experience supporting vulnerable children and young people with complex needs.
- Experience implementing safeguarding procedures and promoting child welfare.
- Experience supervising, mentoring, or managing staff.
- Experience working with behaviour support and therapeutic care models.
- Experience working collaboratively with families, social workers, and external agencies.
- Experience preparing assessments, reports, and care documentation.
Desirable Experience
- Experience as a Deputy Manager within a children's residential home.
- Experience managing budgets and resources.
- Experience preparing for inspections and maintaining regulatory compliance.
- Experience supporting young people in crisis or emergency placements.
Qualifications
Essential
- Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care (Children and Young People) or equivalent.
- Qualification that meets the requirements for Social Care Wales Registration.
- Full commitment to maintaining required professional registrations.
Desirable
- Level 4 or Level 5 Leadership and Management qualification in Health and Social Care.
- Additional safeguarding or behavioural support qualifications.
- Training in Therapeutic Care, Trauma-Informed Practice, or Behaviour Support.
Knowledge and Skills
- Knowledge of The Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016.
- Strong understanding of safeguarding legislation and child protection procedures.
- Knowledge of child development and attachment theory.
- Understanding of behaviour support and trauma-informed approaches.
- Ability to undertake and complete assessments.
- Strong leadership and team management skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to chair meetings and prepare professional reports.
- Budget monitoring and resource management skills.
- Strong organisational and planning abilities.
- Effective problem-solving and decision-making skills.
- Ability to build positive relationships with young people, families, and professionals.
Personal Attributes
- Compassionate and child-focused.
- Resilient and emotionally intelligent.
- Professional and accountable.
- Motivational and supportive leader.
- Calm under pressure.
- Positive role model.
- Flexible and adaptable.
- Committed to delivering outstanding care and safeguarding standards.
Additional Information
- Location: County Hall, Atlantic Wharf, Cardiff, Glamorgan, CF10 4UW, United Kingdom.
- Working Hours: 37 hours per week.
- Pay Rate: £24.56 per hour (Limited Company/Umbrella).
- Contract Type: Temporary/Agency Contract (subject to assignment details).
- Work Schedule: Flexibility required to work shifts, evenings, weekends, sleep-ins, and bank holidays in line with service needs.
- Reporting To: Registered Manager / Officer in Charge.
- DBS Requirement: Enhanced DBS check required prior to appointment.
- Professional Registration: Successful candidate must meet Social Care Wales registration requirements and maintain registration throughout employment.
- Training & Development: Ongoing professional development, mandatory safeguarding training, leadership development, and residential childcare training provided.
- Regulatory Compliance: The role operates within the requirements of The Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016, safeguarding legislation, and Children's Residential Care regulations.
- Working Environment: Residential childcare setting supporting vulnerable children and young people with complex emotional, behavioural, and social needs.
- Leadership Responsibilities: Supervision and support of residential care staff, deputising for the Registered Manager when required.
- Performance Expectations: Deliver high standards of care, positive outcomes for young people, regulatory compliance, effective staff management, and service improvement initiatives.
- Opportunity: A key role in supporting the development and success of a new Children's Home in Cardiff, helping to create a safe, nurturing, and therapeutic environment for children and young people.
Deputy Officer in Charge employer: Civic Recruitment Limited
Civic Recruitment Limited is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment where strategic leadership in the Special Educational Needs service can truly make a difference in children's lives. With a strong focus on collaboration and professional development, employees are encouraged to grow their skills while contributing to meaningful outcomes in the Bromley community. The supportive culture and commitment to high-quality services make this an attractive opportunity for those looking to lead impactful change.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Officer in Charge
✨Get Involved in Local Community Projects
One of the best ways to land a temporary role in social work is to dive headfirst into local community projects. Volunteer your time or skills at local charities or community centres to not only gain experience but also to connect with professionals in the field. They might just have some insider knowledge on temporary positions that pop up!
✨Engage with Social Work Networks
Join online forums and social media groups specifically for social workers. Platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn have dedicated groups where professionals share temporary job opportunities. Being an active member can help you stay in the loop and even get recommendations from those already in the field.
✨Attend Workshops and Seminars
Keep an eye out for workshops, seminars, or conferences related to social work in your area. These events aren't just great for learning; they're also hotbeds for networking! You never know who might be hiring or can point you towards a temporary position while you're soaking up new skills.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website!
When you spot a role that piques your interest, especially for a temporary position, make sure to apply directly through our website! This not only shows your commitment to Civic Recruitment Limited, but also gives you an edge by putting your application right in front of the hiring team. Let’s get you moving on that path to your next opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Officer in Charge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let's highlight why you're passionate about social work and how your values align with those of Civic Recruitment Limited. Share specific experiences where you made a difference, as this field thrives on genuine motivation and connection.
Demonstrate Relevant Experience:When listing your experience, focus on any internships, volunteer roles, or temporary positions you've had in social work or related fields. Those skills are gold! Think about situations where you helped individuals or communities, and don't forget to mention any relevant certifications, like safeguarding or mental health first aid.
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Remember, for a temporary role, hiring managers want to see how you fit in and can hit the ground running. Keep your CV clear and to the point, showcasing only the experience that really matters for the role at Civic Recruitment Limited. We recommend a two-page limit – make every word count!
Emphasise Flexibility and Adaptability:Considering this is a temporary position, it's vital to show you can adapt to new environments quickly. In your application, highlight any past experiences where you had to adjust to different teams or roles smoothly. This shows you understand the nature of temporary work and are ready for the challenge!
How to prepare for a job interview at Civic Recruitment Limited
✨Sharpen Your Empathy Skills
In social work, it's all about understanding and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Make sure to prepare some examples from your experience where you've demonstrated empathy and resilience. Practising active listening techniques can help you articulate your approach during the interview with Civic Recruitment Limited.
✨Know Your Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with key social work theories and frameworks, like the ecological systems theory or person-centred approaches. These concepts might pop up during your interview for the temporary Deputy Officer in Charge role at Civic Recruitment Limited, so it's good to have a couple of insights ready to share.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
Since this is a temporary position, showcasing your flexibility is key. Be prepared to discuss past experiences where you quickly adapted to new environments or changing client needs, which is crucial in the dynamic world of social work.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions that test your decision-making skills and ethical judgement. Think about how you would handle specific challenges you might face in the field. Having a clear structure for your answers will show Civic Recruitment Limited that you can think critically and act effectively under pressure.
