Deputy Manager - Residential Children’s Home (Learning Disabilities) in Compton

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Deputy Manager to join our team in a Residential Children’s Home that provides care and support for children with learning disabilities. The Deputy Manager will play a key role in helping young people with learning disabilities lead fulfilling and independent lives by assisting with their day‑to‑day activities, personal care, and emotional development. The role requires patience, empathy, and a passion for working with children with additional needs, and you will work as part of a close‑knit team to deliver high‑quality care that promotes the children’s physical, emotional, and social well‑being.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and support to children with learning disabilities, ensuring their safety, dignity, and well‑being at all times.
• Oversee and support staff to effectively manage the behaviours of young people, helping them progress to self‑control.
• Safeguard children and young people and promote their general well‑being.
• Assist the manager with daily and weekly tasks as required.
• Ensure referrals are appropriately matched and share information with team members.
• Conduct informative handovers and delegate appointments where necessary.
• Ensure team members adhere to company policies and procedures.
• Provide effective supervision and mentorship to enhance staff practice.
• Maintain up‑to‑date documentation (e.g., Statement of Purpose, Regulation 45 reports, location risk assessments).
• Assist with personal care tasks such as hygiene, dressing, and feeding.
• Support children in educational and recreational activities, both within the home and in the community.
• Develop positive, trusting relationships with children to promote emotional development and self‑confidence.
• Implement individual care plans tailored to each child’s needs.
• Collaborate with colleagues, parents, and external professionals (social workers, therapists) to ensure holistic care.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and nurturing environment.
• Monitor and document children’s progress, behaviours, and changes in care requirements.
• Assist children with managing emotions and behaviours using de‑escalation techniques and positive reinforcement.
• Participate in team meetings, training, and development opportunities.
• Build relationships with relatives and outside agencies, facilitating and supervising family visits.
• Identify potential abuse or neglect and follow whistle‑blowing and safeguarding procedures.
• Promote development within the team to enhance the experiences of young people.

Qualifications and Skills

• Previous experience working with children, particularly those with learning disabilities or additional needs.
• Some supervisory experience is beneficial.
• Diploma Level 4 in Health and Social Care (Children and Young People) or equivalent qualification.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with children and work effectively in a team.
• A caring, patient, and empathetic attitude, committed to promoting the rights and well‑being of children with learning disabilities.
• Ability to manage challenging behaviours calmly, professionally, and positively.
• Flexibility to work shifts, including evenings, weekends, public holidays, and overnight duties.
• A desire to progress within the role and embrace growth opportunities.
• Up‑to‑date knowledge of legislation, national and local policies, and relevant issues.
• Exercise vigilance regarding health and safety and report hazards promptly.
• A full driving licence (including business insurance) is required.
• All professional staff may be asked to undertake other duties reasonably required by line management.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with opportunities for progression.
• Full induction programme and ongoing training to support professional development.
• Supportive working environment with a dedicated and caring team.
• Access to employee well‑being programmes.
• Opportunities for additional qualifications and certifications.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all candidates who meet the required qualifications.