At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and support teams in delivering compassionate mental health transport services.
- Company: Join Secure Care UK, a pioneer in safe mental health transport.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, training opportunities, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives during their most challenging moments.
- Qualifications: Leadership experience in healthcare or related fields is essential.
The predicted salary is between 8 - 8 £ per hour.
Full Time (40.3 hours/week) Location: The Old Stables, Tonbridge Road, Mereworth, Maidstone, ME18 5LR
Reports To: Area Care Operations Manager
Job Type: Full-time
Shift Pattern: 4 on / 4 off (alternating between 4 days and 4 nights 12-hour shifts)
Pay: Annual Remuneration starting from £31,043.20.
If you’re an experienced leader in healthcare or secure services, this is your opportunity to step into a meaningful management role with purpose. At Secure Care UK, we don’t just transport patients—we care for them through some of the most challenging moments in their lives. As a Deputy Care Operations Manager, you will support, mentor, and lead teams to deliver safe, respectful, and person-centred mental health transport services. You’ll act as a role model for quality care, manage operational performance, and ensure your team embodies the values that set us apart.
We’re looking for passionate individuals with strong leadership skills, calm under pressure, and committed to making a positive difference. This is a highly unpredictable and emotionally demanding role, often supporting individuals in distress or crisis. Candidates must demonstrate compassion, patience, and emotional resilience. You will need to manage sensitive and sometimes distressing information, adapt quickly to changing situations, and maintain professionalism in high-pressure environments. In return, you will be part of a supportive and inclusive team making a meaningful difference every day.
Equal Opportunities
Secure Care UK is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. We welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation, in line with the Equality Act 2010.
What You’ll Be Doing
- You will support a wide range of transport needs involving individuals detained under the Mental Health Act, including:
- Hospital transfers, court or prison escorts, and medical appointments
- House extractions under Section 135, working with police and mental health professionals to move individuals from their home to a place of safety
- Community assessments, supporting local authority mental health reviews in people’s homes
- Bed watch services, supervising and supporting admitted patients during hospital stays
- Suite work, caring for patients held in psychiatric suites under Section 136 or 135, often for up to 24-36 hours
You’ll work in crews of two or more, rotating between driving, escorting, and supervising patients, using secure, specially adapted vehicles (under 3.5 tonnes or larger Safe Area Vehicles for complex cases). This isn’t just a driving job—it’s about accompanying patients with care, dignity, and compassion through their most difficult transitions.
As a Deputy Care Operations Manager, you’ll also be responsible for:
- Leading and coaching teams to deliver safe, effective care
- Monitoring compliance with health & safety and company protocols
- Managing rotas, vehicle readiness, and resource allocation
- Supporting recruitment, onboarding, and retention of staff
- Acting as the first point of contact for operational escalations
- Ensuring accurate use of electronic systems and data reporting
- Promoting a positive team culture through regular communication and support
- Contributing to business development and building client relationships
- Working collaboratively with other departments for service delivery
Requirements
- Full UK Manual Driving License (Required)
- Enhanced DBS within the last 3 years (Preferred)
- At least 12 months driving experience (Preferred)
- Prior leadership or supervisory experience in healthcare, security, emergency services, or a related field
- Strong communication and coaching skills
- Calm under pressure and passionate about quality patient care
- Confident using IT systems for scheduling, reporting, and communication
Who We Are
Secure Care UK was founded in 2013 in response to a growing need for safe, compassionate mental health transport. We are proud to be the first and only secure transport provider in the UK meeting Restraint Reduction Network (RRN) standards. With operations spanning the UK and some international services, we work with NHS trusts, local authorities, and private care settings to deliver essential support every day. Our values are at the heart of what we do: Patient First | Respect | Openness | Unity | Determination.
What We Offer
- Training & Development
- Full induction including de-escalation, physical intervention, handcuff training, and First Aid
- Specialist training, NVQ Diplomas, and mentoring programmes
- Leadership development and career progression opportunities
- Benefits
- Company pension
- Cycle-to-work scheme
- Refer-a-friend bonus
- Health Care Cash Plan (after 6 months)
- Eligibility for Blue Light Card
- Employee Assistance Programme (from day one)
- Full uniform and enhanced PPE
- Wage Stream financial wellbeing platform
- Additional annual leave after 2 years of service
- Monthly Care Awards and driver recognition schemes
- Suggestion scheme with rewards for implemented ideas
Pay Enhancements
- Over runs paid at an additional £8 per hour.
- Enhanced pay of £1.20 p/h for Place of Safety and Bed Watch
- Additional shift enhancement of £1.75 p/h for call-ins or extra shifts
PLEASE NOTE: WE DO NOT PROVIDE SPONSORSHIPS.
We are Veteran Aware. We are exempt from the Rehabilitation Offenders Act 1974.
Flexibility & Commitment
Due to the nature of our services, flexibility is essential. While we operate on structured 4-on/4-off rotas, there may be occasions when shift overruns or changes are necessary to meet patient needs. We appreciate and support a responsive, team-first approach.
Ready to Make a Lasting Impact? If you’re passionate about supporting teams and patients, ready to lead with integrity, and want to grow within a company that values its people and purpose—apply today to begin your next chapter with Secure Care UK.
Locations
Deputy Care Operations Manager in Dartford, Kent employer: Secure Care UK Limited
Secure Care UK is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees are empowered to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals during challenging times. With comprehensive training and development opportunities, including leadership programmes and specialist training, staff can grow their careers while enjoying benefits such as a company pension, health care cash plan, and additional annual leave after two years of service. Located in Maidstone, our team-oriented culture fosters collaboration and resilience, ensuring that every employee feels valued and equipped to provide compassionate care.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Care Operations Manager in Dartford, Kent
✨Tap into Local Healthcare Networks
Getting involved with local healthcare communities is a game-changer for nursing roles. Join nursing associations or attend local events and workshops where you can meet fellow professionals and potential employers. It’s all about building those connections – your next full-time gig could be just a chat away!
✨Showcase Your Skills in Real-Life Settings
Consider volunteering at clinics or hospitals if you can squeeze in some time. Not only does this help you gain practical experience, but it also shows your commitment to patient care. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to network and potentially land a full-time role at a facility you enjoy!
✨Use LinkedIn like a Pro
Make your LinkedIn profile pop by highlighting your nursing skills prominently. Share articles, insights, or case studies that demonstrate your knowledge in patient care. Engaging with content in nursing forums can also put you on the radar of recruiters looking for full-time talent like you!
✨Direct Applications are Key!
When you spot a role that excites you, don't hold back – apply directly through our website! Tailor your application to show off how your specific experiences align with the needs at Secure Care UK Limited for the Deputy Care Operations Manager role. Companies appreciate candidates who take initiative and show genuine interest!
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Care Operations Manager in Dartford, Kent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Qualifications:When applying for a full-time nursing role with Secure Care UK Limited, it's crucial to highlight your nursing qualifications. Make sure to include any relevant certifications, such as your NMC registration and any specialisations. List them front and centre on your CV so we can see your expertise at a glance!
Craft a Compassionate Cover Letter:Your cover letter is the perfect place to express your passion for patient care. Talk about your experiences, how you handle challenging situations, and your approach to teamwork. This gives us insight not just into your skills but also into your caring nature, which is essential in nursing.
Emphasise Soft Skills:In nursing, technical skills are important, but we're also keen on soft skills. Make sure to highlight your communication abilities, empathy, and problem-solving skills. These attributes are often just as critical in delivering exceptional patient care and will help differentiate you from other candidates.
Tailor Your Experience to Patient Care:When detailing your experience, be specific about your direct patient care roles. Focus on the impact you’ve made on your patients’ lives—mention specific tasks, challenges you've overcame, or improvements you’ve contributed to. This helps us visualise you in action at Secure Care UK Limited, and how you can make a difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at Secure Care UK Limited
✨Brush Up on Clinical Scenarios
In nursing, you might face questions around patient scenarios, so sharpen your clinical judgment skills. Think through common cases—like managing a patient with specific needs or handling emergencies—and be ready to articulate your approach confidently.
✨Showcase Your Soft Skills
Beyond technical skills, nursing is all about communication and empathy. Prepare to share examples from your experiences that highlight your ability to connect with patients and work effectively in a team, as this is crucial for a full-time role at Secure Care UK Limited.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Healthcare Regulations
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest healthcare regulations and policies relevant to your role. This knowledge not only shows your commitment to patient safety but also signals that you're proactive and engaged—qualities that full-time employers like Secure Care UK Limited appreciate.
✨Ask AboutCareer Development Opportunities
Since this is a full-time position, show your ambition by asking how Secure Care UK Limited supports growth and development. Inquire about ongoing training, mentorship programmes, or opportunities to specialise in particular areas, as this illustrates your long-term interest in nursing.
