At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to support individuals facing mental health challenges and ensure high-quality service delivery.
- Company: Join Waythrough, one of England's largest mental health charities, making a real difference.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27 days annual leave, pension contributions, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working hours with a supportive, values-driven culture.
- Why this job: Make a genuine impact in your community while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in people management and a passion for supporting mental health is essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Contract: Permanent, Full-Time (37 hours per week)
Location: Abbots Bank, Friargate Penrith, Cumbria CA11 7XR
Please note: The salary listed reflects the full earning potential for this role. Starting salaries depend on experience and progression within the band.
About Waythrough
Waythrough was formed in 2024 following the merger of Humankind and Richmond Fellowship. Together, we’ve created one of the largest mental health and social support charities in England. Every year, we support around 125,000 people through nearly 200 services – and it’s all made possible by our 3,500 brilliant staff and volunteers.
Make a real difference in your community
Are you passionate about helping others live safer, healthier, more independent lives? Join our team at Waythrough and support people facing challenges around mental health, substance use, housing or domestic abuse. This is more than just a job – it’s a chance to build meaningful relationships and create lasting change.
About the Role
We are specialists in mental health, delivering high-quality, evidence-based services designed around the needs of the people we support. Our vision is to break down the barriers that prevent people from accessing the support they need to live a life they value. We are now looking for a Service Manager to lead our Abbotts Bank which is a 6 bed Service. We help people aged 18 or over who require support with their mental health and a supported living environment to maintain a tenancy. This is an exciting opportunity to make a real impact—both in the lives of service users and in shaping a developing service.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Oversee the day-to-day running of the service and ensure high-quality delivery across all areas
- Lead, manage (6 direct reports) and develop a team promoting a positive and high-performing culture
- Ensure effective service delivery models are embedded and continuously improved
- Build strong partnerships with external agencies including Social Services, Housing, Probation and Health services
- Monitor and drive performance targets, service outcomes and contractual requirements
- Develop structured programmes to support individuals, including those experiencing mental health challenges and homelessness
- Maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with CQC standards and organisational policies
- Manage safeguarding, incidents and risks effectively
- Support recruitment, induction, supervision, training and performance management of staff
- Contribute to ongoing service development and improvement initiatives
- Hold a small caseload where required to support service delivery
About You
We are looking for a confident and compassionate leader who can motivate teams and drive service excellence.
- Proven people management and leadership experience
- Full UK driving licence and access to your own vehicle
- Level 3 NVQ in Health & Social Care (or willingness to work towards)
- Strong organisational, communication and problem‑solving skills
- Experience in mental health, housing, or care settings
- Experience working in a fast-paced or complex service environment
We welcome applicants from a range of backgrounds—transferable leadership skills are highly valued.
What Success Looks Like & What We Offer
In your first 6–12 months, you’ll focus on settling into the role, successfully passing probation and building a stable, engaged and high-performing team. You’ll play a key role in maintaining strong service performance, including effective void management, while contributing to the ongoing development and improvement of how the service operates. In return, you’ll have the opportunity to make a genuine difference to people’s lives every day, shaping and developing a growing service. You’ll be part of a supportive, values-driven organisation that encourages collaboration, innovation and continuous improvement. We are committed to your development, offering access to training, learning opportunities and clear career progression pathways.
Working Pattern & Key Considerations
This is a full-time, on-site role working 37 hours per week, typically Monday to Friday. As the service operates 24/7, flexibility is required, and occasional weekend working may be needed—time off in lieu will be provided. This is a rewarding but sometimes challenging role. Supporting individuals with mental health needs can be complex, and the environment can be fast-paced. You will play an important role in strengthening the team, improving service culture and ensuring high-quality delivery across the service.
What We Offer
We value the people who make a difference every day. Alongside meaningful work, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package:
- 27 days’ annual leave, rising to 32 after 1 year (plus bank holidays)
- Pension scheme with 4.5% employer contribution, matched up to 6.5%
- Life assurance (3× annual salary)
- Enhanced sick pay and family-friendly pay
- Birthday leave and the option to buy up to 5 extra days’ annual leave
- Professional fee reimbursement for relevant qualifications
- 24/7 online GP access and Employee Assistance Programme
- Recognition and long service awards via our Way to Go and Aspirations portals
- £500 Recommend a Friend bonus
- Cycle to Work scheme and Credit Union membership
- Discounts via Blue Light Card, Charity Discounts, Extras and Tickets for Good
- Free will writing service and wellbeing initiatives throughout the year
Inclusion and Accessibility
Waythrough is proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities, especially those with lived experience of the issues we support. We have signed up to the Disability Confident Scheme - all applicants are welcome, and adjustments can be made to enable fair participation. If you need adjustments or support to apply, please email our recruitment team: recruitmentteam@waythrough.org.uk
Service Manager in Penrith employer: Waythrough
Waythrough is an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the community through mental health and social support services. With a strong focus on employee development, we offer comprehensive benefits, including generous annual leave, professional training opportunities, and a supportive work culture that values collaboration and innovation. Join us in Penrith, where you can lead a passionate team and contribute to shaping a vital service while enjoying a fulfilling career path.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Service Manager in Penrith
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the mental health and social support sectors. Attend local events or join online forums where you can connect with others who share your passion. You never know who might have a lead on that perfect Service Manager role!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Waythrough and understanding their mission. Think about how your experience aligns with their values and be ready to share specific examples of how you've made a difference in previous roles. This will show them you're not just another candidate!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at Waythrough. Let’s make a difference together!
We think you need these skills to ace Service Manager in Penrith
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Service Manager role. Highlight your experience in mental health, leadership, and any relevant qualifications that match what we're looking for.
Show Your Passion:We want to see your enthusiasm for helping others! Share personal stories or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to making a difference in people's lives, especially in mental health and social support.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure your information well so we can easily see how you meet the requirements of the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Waythrough.
How to prepare for a job interview at Waythrough
✨Know the Organisation Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research Waythrough thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and the specific services they provide. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in making a difference in the community.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Service Manager, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed teams or projects. Highlight how you motivated others and drove service excellence, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle complex situations. Think of specific instances where you've dealt with challenges in mental health, housing, or care settings, and be ready to discuss your thought process and outcomes.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, you'll likely have the chance to ask questions. Use this opportunity to inquire about the team culture, ongoing training opportunities, or how success is measured in the role. This shows you're proactive and genuinely interested in contributing to the organisation.
