Deputy Service Manager in Ipswich, Suffolk

At Survivors in Transition, we provide specialist trauma-informed support to survivors of sexual violence and abuse across Suffolk and the wider East of England. We are seeking a skilled, compassionate, and operationally capable Deputy Service Manager to support the day-to-day delivery of high-quality survivor services during a period of continued growth and development.

This is a senior operational role supporting the Service Manager and wider leadership team to ensure services are safe, effective, responsive, and aligned with trauma-informed principles. The postholder will play a key role in staff support, case oversight, safeguarding, performance monitoring, and service coordination.

The role would suit someone with experience in sexual violence, domestic abuse, mental health, safeguarding, social care, or other trauma-related services, who is confident balancing operational management with survivor-centred practice.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Supporting the operational management of frontline services
• Providing day-to-day supervision and guidance to staff and subcontracted therapists
• Assisting with safeguarding oversight, risk management, and complex case discussions
• Monitoring service delivery, KPIs, waiting lists, and outcomes
• Supporting quality assurance, audits, and compliance processes
• Helping embed trauma-informed and survivor-led practice across the organisation
• Assisting with resource coordination, service cover, and operational problem solving
• Supporting partnership working with external agencies and stakeholders
• Contributing to service development and continuous improvement

Essential experience and skills:

You will hold an undergraduate degree in a relevant field such as Counselling, Psychotherapy, Psychology, Mental Health, or Social Care or equivalent professional qualification, along with at least five years’ experience in service or operations management. You’ll bring strong safeguarding knowledge, excellent leadership and communication skills, and a deep understanding of trauma-informed practice. You will be confident in operational efficiency, quality assurance, and resource management, with strong skills in data analysis and budget management. You will be able to work independently to drive operational improvements while maintaining empathy and professionalism in all interactions. Excellent IT skills, advanced organisational ability, and a collaborative, nonjudgmental approach are essential - as is a sense of humour and resilience when working in a fast-paced, emotionally demanding environment. A full, clean driving licence preferred.

Support and development:

Working in trauma-informed services can be demanding, and we prioritise staff wellbeing and professional support.

You will receive:

• Regular clinical supervision
• Supportive line management
• Opportunities for training and professional development
• Hybrid working arrangements
• A collaborative and supportive team environment

Why join Survivors in Transition?

• Be part of a specialist service supporting survivors of sexual violence
• Work within a trauma-informed organisation that values staff wellbeing
• Help survivors access life-changing recovery services
• Contribute to a growing service making a real difference across the region

Safeguarding:

This role is subject to an enhanced DBS check. Survivors in Transition is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of survivors.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion:

We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. We particularly encourage applications from individuals whose experiences reflect the communities we serve.

Competitive Salary of £32k-£36k per annum (depending on experience) Holiday: 25 days annual leave, plus your birthday off and bank holidays, pension scheme, health cover, and additional wellbeing benefits. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references. Please note applications will only be accepted via application form.