Deputy Manager

Think Workforce; Canterbury; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

A children's residential care provider in Canterbury is seeking a Deputy Manager to oversee daily operations and ensure high standards of care. You will support staff, maintain compliance with regulations, and drive a positive environment for children. Ideal candidates have leadership experience and a Level 3 or 4 Diploma in Health and Social Care. The role offers a salary of £30,450 - £36,750, with continuous professional development opportunities.

Benefits

28 days of holidays including bank holidays

Continuous professional development opportunities

Competitive salary and benefits package

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years' supervisory experience in a children's residential setting.
• Willingness to work towards a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare.
• Strong understanding of safeguarding and child protection.

Responsibilities

• Support the Registered Manager in running the home and lead shifts.
• Ensure compliance with statutory frameworks and safeguarding practices.
• Provide supervision and guidance to promote staff development.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

Decision-making

Education

Level 3 or 4 Diploma in Health and Social Care for Children and Young People

Job description

Deputy Manager - Children's Residential Home (Canterbury, Kent)

Salary: £30,450 - £36,750 per annum
Hours: 40 hours per week (full-time)
Holidays: 28 days including bank holidays
Contract: Permanent (subject to 6-month probation)
Location: Canterbury
Disclosure: Enhanced DBS check required

About the Service

Our children's home in Canterbury provides a nurturing, therapeutic environment for children and young people aged 8 to 17 who have faced emotional, behavioural, or complex needs. The service is guided by a trauma-informed approach that prioritises healing, empowerment, and stability. Offering each child a chance to flourish in a setting that feels safe, supportive, and family-oriented.

Our ethos is grounded in rapport building, respect, and dignity, with every team member contributing to the holistic development and well-being of each child. Safeguarding is central to everything we do - we are committed to ensuring that every child in our care feels protected and valued.

The Role

As the Deputy Manager, you will play a key leadership role in supporting the Registered Manager to oversee the daily operations of the children's home. You'll ensure the highest standards of care, compliance, and safeguarding are consistently maintained in line with the Children's Homes (England) Regulations 2015 and Quality Standards.

You will inspire and guide the staff team to deliver exceptional care and positive outcomes for each young person, fostering a culture of teamwork, respect, and resilience.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Registered Manager in running the home, deputising when required.
• Lead shifts, supervise staff, and ensure care plans and safeguarding practices are implemented effectively.
• Maintain compliance with all statutory frameworks, including safeguarding, health and safety, and data protection legislation.
• Provide supervision, guidance, and reflective practice opportunities to staff to promote their professional development.
• Ensure individual care plans are tailored to meet the emotional, social, and educational needs of each child.
• Promote a positive, inclusive culture that upholds equality and diversity.
• Support the recruitment, induction, and ongoing training of team members.
• Contribute to audits, quality assurance, and Ofsted inspections.
• Build constructive working relationships with partner agencies and stakeholders.
• Ensure accurate and timely recording, reporting, and quality monitoring in line with organisational standards.
• Take part in the on-call rota and ensure adequate service coverage, including evenings, weekends, and bank holidays.

About You

You are a compassionate and resilient professional with strong leadership skills and a genuine passion for supporting children and young people. You bring experience in managing or supervising staff within a residential setting and thrive in a collaborative, values-driven environment.

Essential Requirements:

• Minimum of 2 years' supervisory experience in a children's residential setting.
• Level 3 or 4 Diploma in Health and Social Care for Children and Young People (or equivalent).
• Willingness to work towards a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare.
• Strong understanding of safeguarding, child protection, and trauma-informed care.
• Excellent communication, organisational, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to inspire, motivate, and develop a team.
• Commitment to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Desirable:

• Previous experience liaising with Ofsted.
• Proven record in quality assurance and performance management.
• Financial acumen and understanding of residential care budgets.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a supportive team dedicated to transforming children's lives.
• Work within a trauma-informed, empowering care model.
• Continuous professional development opportunities.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• The chance to make a genuine impact on young people's futures.

How to Apply

If you're a passionate and motivated leader who believes every child deserves the opportunity to heal, grow, and thrive we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today with your CV outlining your relevant experience and motivation for applying. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.