Deputy Manager - Children's Home - Milton Keynes

Deputy Manager – Children's Residential Home

Location: Milton Keynes
Salary: From £35,000 up to £38,000 with benefits

Portman Recruitment is seeking a compassionate and motivated Deputy Manager on behalf of our client, supporting children and young people with complex social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs.

This is an opportunity to support the Registered Manager, develop a dedicated staff team and help create a stable home where children feel safe, listened to and valued.

About the Home

Our client's semi-detached home in Bletchley, Milton Keynes provides residential care for up to two children and young people of all genders, aged 7–17 on admission, with complex SEMH needs.

The home places children's voices at the heart of decision-making. Its approach recognises each child's individual experiences, builds resilience, promotes healing through relationships and encourages learning for life.

By offering a stable, secure and supportive environment, the team helps young people develop confidence, strengthen relationships and build the skills they need to fulfil their potential.

About the Role

As Deputy Manager, you will support the day-to-day running of the home and deputise for the Registered Manager in their absence. You will mentor Team Leaders and Residential Support Workers, promote consistent care and help maintain high safeguarding and regulatory standards.

The role combines practical leadership with direct support for children, requiring emotional resilience, sound judgement and a commitment to improving outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Registered Manager in leading the home and maintaining a positive, child-centred culture.
• Supervise, mentor and develop staff through regular supervision, appraisals and performance reviews.
• Assist with recruitment, induction, training and staff rotas.
• Support children with daily routines, education, activities and life skills.
• Build trusting relationships with children and families, encouraging children's participation in decisions about their care.
• Promote robust safeguarding practice and ensure care plans, risk assessments and behaviour support strategies are followed.
• Maintain accurate records and contribute to care planning, reviews and quality assurance.
• Support compliance with Ofsted requirements, organisational policies and health and safety standards.
• Contribute to budgeting, resource management and operational planning.
• Work collaboratively with social workers, families and other professionals.
• Promote equality, diversity and inclusion throughout the home.

About You

Essential requirements:

• Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare or an equivalent qualification.
• An enhanced DBS check suitable for working with children and young people.
• Knowledge of safeguarding, child protection and residential care regulations.
• An understanding of the needs of vulnerable children and young people.
• Strong leadership, communication, mentoring and organisational skills.
• A calm, reflective and resilient approach to challenging situations.
• A commitment to professional development and promoting children's welfare.

Desirable experience and qualifications:

• Experience as a Team Leader or Deputy Manager.
• Experience supervising or mentoring staff.
• Experience in regulated residential care, particularly supporting children with complex needs or challenging behaviour.
• A Level 5 leadership or management qualification in residential childcare.
• A full UK driving licence.
• Experience of operational management, budgeting or relevant HR processes.

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