Deputy Manager in Southampton

NFC is looking for a passionate and experienced Deputy Manager to work as part of our experiences care team. As a Deputy Manager, you will support and work with the Manager to deliver outstanding standards of care; providing supervisions and values-led management. You should be able to demonstrate experience in managing and developing staff, alongside leadership abilities plus excellent communication and interpersonal skills. You must also be able to show an analytical approach to reviewing practice and processes and contribute to the development of the home and the wider service.

The focus of the role is to directly support the management of the home with an emphasis on recording and reporting. There will be a requirement for some evening and weekend work, working alongside the team on shift to role model and assess practice as required by the Registered Manager. You will also be required to manage the home in the Manager's absence – assuming responsibility for the effective running of the home while the Registered Manager is away. The Deputy Manager's role is a stepping stone to becoming a Registered Manager with access to Diploma level 5 once probation is completed.

Essential requirements:

• You will be compassionate, resilient and committed to being a positive role model.
• Confident in managing challenging behaviours.
• Experience within residential childcare.
• Diploma level 3 or equivalent.
• Flexibility - the role is predominantly 8am-5pm Monday-Friday but may involve working some evenings and weekends.

Desirable requirements:

• A full UK driving licence and access to a car due to rural locations.
• Experience of supporting vulnerable young people within a residential care environment, or another professional setting.

Purpose of the role:

First and foremost to provide excellent unconditional care for our children. Supporting every child to feel valued and safe; ensuring their physical, emotional and everyday needs are met. Maintaining the home and the welfare of each child ensuring they access a healthy balanced diet and routine. Moreover, ensuring the home is clean, tidy and that each child is supported to attend health appointments and education. To provide a consistent, high-quality service that supports the assessed needs of residents and to advocate for their well-being. This will include a level of written work completing daily records and contributing to reports and assessments. Through activities, help children develop self-esteem, a feeling of safety and personal strategies to deal with unhelpful behaviour and thoughts, and ultimately to achieve their optimum potential. Support and promote a positive safeguarding culture. To actively promote and engage in promoting creativity, openness and a strong teamwork ethic. To support a culture where people are valued and supported to make a difference to the lives of others. Support or lead, where appropriate, a wide range of activities/daily tasks.

Why Choose New Forest Care?

We offer more than just a job – we provide a fulfilling career in a supportive, rewarding environment.

• High Staff-to-Child Ratios: No agency staff.
• Comprehensive Training: Regular in-house sessions and induction programs.
• Funded Qualifications: Progress your career with Diplomas in Residential Childcare and Leadership.
• Exclusive Perks: Blue Light Card eligibility, discretionary rewards, and meal provisions during shifts.
• Generous Benefits: Enhanced company sick pay scheme. 5.6 weeks annual leave (inc. Bank Holidays) increasing with service. Employee Assistance Programme. Staff Discount scheme (300 plus retailers). Enhanced DBS covered.

New Forest Care is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Applicants must be willing to undergo appropriate child protection screening, including employment references and DBS check.