14/06/2025
Are you an experienced Senior Residential Support Worker or Deputy Manager looking for your next challenge?
We’re offering an exciting opportunity for a passionate and experienced individual to join the leadership team of a brand-new children’s home. This role is ideal for someone who wants to help shape a new provision from the ground up, supporting children and young people aged 5–18 with emotional and behavioural difficulties, learning disabilities, and mental health needs.
About Us
We are a forward-thinking provider of children’s residential care, committed to creating stable, nurturing environments that empower young people to grow and thrive. Our ethos is rooted in compassion, safeguarding, and quality of care. We are opening a new home where children will feel safe, respected, and supported to develop independence and confidence.
The Role
As Deputy Manager, you will support the Registered Manager in leading the daily operations of the home. This includes managing staffing, ensuring regulatory compliance, supporting staff development, and creating an environment where children feel valued and cared for.
You’ll be instrumental in maintaining high standards, deputising for the Registered Manager when required, and ensuring the home meets and exceeds expectations set by Ofsted and the Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015.
Key Responsibilities
Supporting the development of children and young people in line with their care plans
Promoting safeguarding, welfare, and protection inside and outside the home
Ensuring the home environment is safe, caring, and child-focused
Leading on key transitions such as admissions and discharges
Promoting inclusion of dietary, religious, and cultural needs
Supporting staff to manage complex cases and crises sensitively
Leading by example and maintaining high standards of care and conduct
Providing regular supervision and appraisals for staff
Supporting recruitment, performance management, and disciplinary procedures
Assisting with rotas and staffing levels to ensure safe practice
Contributing to budget management and ensuring resource efficiency
Liaising with families, schools, health professionals, and social workers
Promoting independence and empowerment for young people
Ensuring compliance with health and safety, safeguarding, and data security
Modelling best practice in all interactions with staff and children
What We’re Looking For
We are seeking a committed and driven Deputy Manager who:
Has at least two years’ experience in residential childcare
Has experience supervising staff and leading shifts
Has strong knowledge of safeguarding, Ofsted requirements, and care planning
Possesses excellent organisational, communication, and interpersonal skills
Is confident in managing people and promoting a positive team culture
Holds or is working towards a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management in Residential Childcare
Is committed to delivering trauma-informed and child-centred care
Has an up-to-date DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check
Is flexible, resilient, and able to lead in a dynamic environment
What You’ll Get in Return
Competitive salary: £32,500 – £40,000 per year (depending on experience)
40 hours per week with flexible shifts, including evenings and weekends
Opportunity to help build and shape a brand-new home
Ongoing training and development, including leadership training
Clear progression opportunities
A values-driven, supportive team and leadership environment
The chance to make a real difference in young people’s lives
Equal Opportunities
We are committed to being an equal opportunities employer. We value diversity and inclusion and strive to create a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and fairness, regardless of their background, identity, or beliefs.
Location:
Ashford, Kent
Interested?
If you're ready to take the next step in your career and want to play a pivotal role in the development of a new children’s service, we’d love to hear from you.