Childrens Residential Deputy Manager

We are seeking an experienced and compassionate Deputy Manager to support the Registered Manager in leading a solo children's residential home for a young person with learning disabilities, autism and additional complex needs. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Senior Residential Support Worker, Team Leader or current Deputy Manager who wants to progress within specialist children's residential care.

As Deputy Manager, you will work closely with the Registered Manager to ensure the home operates safely, effectively and in line with regulatory requirements. You will support staff to deliver individualised care that promotes communication, independence, emotional wellbeing and positive outcomes. As this is a solo home, the role requires a strong understanding of personalised support, communication needs, sensory needs, behaviour support and consistent care practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Registered Manager with the day-to-day leadership and management of the home.
• Provide guidance, supervision and support to the residential staff team.
• Ensure the young person is supported in line with their care plan, behaviour support plan and risk assessments.
• Promote independence, communication and daily living skills.
• Support staff to use individual communication methods and person-centred approaches.
• Promote Positive Behaviour Support and reduce restrictive practice.
• Ensure safeguarding concerns are reported and managed appropriately.
• Oversee medication administration and related records where required.
• Conduct staff supervisions, appraisals and performance reviews.
• Support staff training in autism, learning disabilities, communication and behaviour support.
• Assist with rota planning and maintain appropriate staffing levels.
• Oversee accurate daily records, incident reports and handovers.
• Support the Registered Manager with audits, quality assurance and regulatory monitoring.
• Build effective relationships with families, social workers, education providers, health professionals and therapists.
• Support multi-agency meetings and reviews.
• Deputise for the Registered Manager during periods of absence.
• Support compliance with the Children's Homes Regulations 2015 and Quality Standards.
• Contribute to Ofsted preparation and inspection processes.
• Promote a stable, structured and nurturing environment.

Essential Requirements

• Experience working within a children's residential home.
• Experience supporting children or young people with learning disabilities, autism or complex needs.
• Previous experience as a Senior Residential Support Worker, Team Leader, Deputy Manager or in a similar leadership role.
• Experience leading shifts and supporting staff.
• Knowledge of safeguarding and child protection.
• Knowledge of the Children's Homes Regulations 2015 and Quality Standards.
• An understanding of Positive Behaviour Support and person-centred care.
• Strong leadership, communication and organisational skills.
• A full UK driving licence.

Qualifications

• Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare, Children and Young People's Workforce, or an equivalent qualification.
• Desirable: Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare, or willingness to work towards it.
• Autism-specific training.
• Positive Behaviour Support training.
• Medication Administration training.
• Communication training such as Makaton, PECS or similar.

What We Are Looking For

• Compassionate and child-centred.
• Experienced in supporting learning disabilities and autism.
• Confident leading and developing staff.
• Calm, patient and resilient.
• Organised and attentive to detail.
• Proactive in improving care quality and compliance.
• Committed to promoting independence and positive outcomes.
• Able to build strong relationships with professionals and families.

Salary and Benefits

• Salary from £37,000 to £45,000 per annum, dependent on experience and qualifications.
• Monday-to-Friday working pattern, 09:00-17:00.
• Ongoing training and professional development.
• Support to complete the Level 5 qualification where required.
• Career progression opportunities within the company.
• Company pension.
• Supportive senior management team.
• Additional company benefits subject to company policy.

Safeguarding

This role is subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references, right-to-work checks and a full safer recruitment process. The organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All applicants must share this commitment.

How to Apply

Please apply with an up-to-date CV outlining your children's residential experience, leadership experience, learning disability or autism experience and relevant qualifications.