Deputy Manager - Supported Living Post 16 in Southampton

Who are Fair Ways and what do we stand for? At Fair Ways we believe in making a difference through passionate care, support and education. Together we aim to build an institution that makes a difference to society and leaves a legacy greater than ourselves and our contributions. Our values sit at the heart of everything we do; we measure our wealth by the difference we make, rather than the profit we make. Fair Ways is a leading children’s services charity based in the Solent, delivering Fostering, Education, Residential and Family services and cares for over 400 children, families, young people and vulnerable adults each year.

As a leading provider of Supported Living homes, we are actively seeking an experienced Deputy Manager for our home in Southampton. Join us and lead a team that empowers young adults to navigate the path towards independence and success.

Our Post-16 supported living provision consists of a collection of small family homes and can accommodate a number of residents at a time. Each young person has their own private room and shared access to communal areas. Our aim is to provide stability, consistency and acceptance, with the emphasis on young adults being responsible for themselves.

As a Deputy Manager for Fair Ways Supported Living, you will be involved in exciting and rewarding things like:

• Day to Day Operations: To be responsible for the day to day running of the home including oversight of our young people and their wellbeing, ensuring that staff are supported and confident in their roles, managing training, Health & Safety, quality assurance and improvement and strategy ensuring all areas are compliant with regulations, policies & procedures.
• Leadership and Supervision: Leading a team of dedicated professionals who share a common goal of caring for and supporting each resident. Together, we create a nurturing environment where young people can flourish. You will provide line management to a number of direct reports offering reflective supervisions, guidance and support as part of effective professional development.
• Keeping young people safe: Leading in the monitoring of good practice within the home and ensuring safe working practices within Child Protection procedures and where appropriate manage the presenting safeguarding issues in accordance with Fair Ways Policies and Procedures to keep children and vulnerable adults safe from harm for the duration of their accommodation.
• Being a Trauma Informed professional: Using our industry recognised RiiSE training to deliver trauma informed responses through the individualised use of therapeutic and, where appropriate, physical intervention to ensure our young people are supported appropriately during times of crisis.
• Occupancy Management: Working with the service manager to maintain occupancy levels and effectively manage staffing requirements for the home. This will be done through the effective screening of referrals, oversight of the placement of young people and managing the impact of this.
• Multi Agency Working: Supporting the Registered Manager in ensuring a high-quality service is delivered and maintained through effective deputising at multi-agency meetings, leading on oversight of young people’s pathways and that they are in accordance with relevant Ofsted standards and regulations assuring that all those we support receive the highest levels of care and desired outcomes.
• Budget Management: Holding responsibility for the financial stability of the home through effective budget planning and financial management, working in partnership with the accounts team, internal reporting systems and involvement in regular review meetings ensuring that any financial risk is managed appropriately and that there is sound oversight of this at all times.

This role is offered on a 37.5 hour per week basis, Monday to Friday. All candidates must have a full driving license and have access to the use of a car although each home will have unit vehicles as a 1st option. Successful candidates will be required to provide an enhanced Disclosure (DBS). This disclosure cost will be met by Fair Ways.

You and your specialisms:

• Management roles within our frontline services play a key part in achieving our mission of making a difference through passionate care, support, and education. To support this, you will be required to have, or be working towards a minimum of the following qualification levels and/or experience:
• To have experience in working with young people aged 16-25, promoting independence.
• To hold, or be working towards a Level 5 qualification in Leadership and management or equivalent.
• To have experience in a management or deputy management role and the ability to lead and direct a team and continuously improve service delivery.

At Fair Ways, we care about your well-being, here is what we currently offer to our dedicated team:

• Exciting Opportunities: Participate in free staff lotteries with amazing prizes, such as £1000 holiday vouchers, weekends away, luxury hampers, £1000 fostering referral scheme and vouchers. Experience a workplace that celebrates your contributions.
• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a Holiday Accrual Scheme and the option to purchase additional holidays (up to 5 days). We value your time and offer flexibility to accommodate your existing commitments.
• Health and Support: Benefit from Simply Health, our health cash plan, and access to our Employee Assistance Scheme, providing emergency financial assistance and 24/7 counselling services. Access your salary when you need it with Early Pay – The ability to withdraw an amount of your salary early each month to assist with any unforeseen circumstances.
• Growth and Development: Unlock your potential with our Education Grant, offering funding for accreditation up to master’s level. Engage in leadership courses to enhance your skills and progress in your career.
• Wellbeing Matters: Experience team-building days, summer festivals, and well-being initiatives, promoting a positive work environment. Take advantage of discounted gym memberships and a cycle-to-work scheme to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
• Recognition and Rewards: Be appreciated for your dedication through annual Staff Awards and Long Service Awards. Build a secure future with our pension scheme and gain eligibility for a Blue Light Card.
• Supportive Community: Be part of our diverse workforce that embraces all communities. We value your unique perspective and encourage you to contribute to our inclusive and vibrant culture.

Benefits may differ dependant on contract type. Become a part of our community – We can’t wait to meet you! If you’re passionate about making a difference and are ready to embark on an incredible journey, apply today and be a part of something amazing at Fair Ways. Join our team and help shape brighter futures!