Deputy Manager

Universal Care Group; Great Barr; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Team reward allowance

Refer a staff member scheme

Job summary

Universal Care Group seeks a Deputy Manager for a brand-new 4-bed EBD home. You will work with the Registered Manager to establish a nurturing, therapeutic, child-centred environment and influence practice and staff development.

Ideal candidates are experienced Senior Residential Support Workers, Team Leaders, or current Deputies seeking progression. You will lead shifts, support recruitment, and help ensure outstanding outcomes while building a thriving, compliant home.

Qualifications

• Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or equivalent) is required.
• Minimum of 2 years' experience in residential childcare.
• Experience in senior or deputy leadership roles (e.g., Senior Residential Support Worker, Team Leader, Deputy).
• Strong safeguarding knowledge and understanding of Ofsted requirements.

Responsibilities

• Support the Registered Manager in daily operations and regulatory compliance.
• Lead shifts, provide direction, and support the residential care team.
• Foster a positive, therapeutic environment for children and young people.
• Coach staff induction, supervision, and ongoing development.
• Monitor care plans, risk assessments, and placement plans.
• Contribute to quality assurance, audits, and improvement actions.
• Assist with OFSTED inspections and Regulation 44 visits preparation.
• Ensure safeguarding procedures are consistently followed.
• Build positive relationships with children, families, social workers, and schools.
• Assist with staff rotas and staffing levels; maintain records.
• Deputise for the Registered Manager in their absence and support leadership.

Skills

Leadership

Staff development

Communication

Team leadership

Motivation

Education

Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare

2 years residential childcare experience

Job description

We are seeking a dedicated, ambitious, and compassionate Deputy Manager to join our beautifully furnished 4-bed EBD home.

Working closely alongside the Registered Manager, you will help establish a nurturing, therapeutic, and child-centred environment where children can thrive. You will have the opportunity to influence practice, support the recruitment and development of staff, and help create a home that achieves exceptional outcomes for children and young people.

As part of a successful and growing group of children's residential homes, you will benefit from the support of an experienced Registered Manager, a highly visible Responsible Individual, and a wider leadership team committed to helping you develop professionally.

This role is ideal for an experienced Senior Residential Support Worker, Team Leader, or existing Deputy Manager seeking a fresh challenge and the opportunity to be part of an exciting new venture. It offers an excellent pathway for ambitious childcare professionals looking to progress into senior leadership and future Registered Manager positions within a growing organisation.

Responsibilities

• Support the Registered Manager in the day-to-day operation of the home, ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation, regulations, and company policies.
• Lead shifts and provide effective leadership, guidance, and support to the residential care team.
• Assist in developing and maintaining a positive, nurturing, and therapeutic environment for children and young people.
• Support staff induction, supervision, mentoring, and ongoing development to promote high-quality care and practice.
• Monitor children's care plans, risk assessments, and placement plans to ensure individual needs are met.
• Contribute to quality assurance processes, audits, action plans, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Support the Registered Manager in preparing for OFSTED inspections, Regulation 44 visits, and local authority monitoring activities.
• Ensure safeguarding procedures are consistently followed and that children remain safe and protected at all times.
• Build positive relationships with children, families, social workers, education providers, and other professionals.
• Assist with staffing rotas, shift planning, and ensuring appropriate staffing levels are maintained.
• Maintain accurate records, reports, and documentation in line with regulatory requirements.
• Deputise for the Registered Manager in their absence and support the overall leadership and management of the home.

Benefits of Joining Our Team

• Dedicated support from an experienced Registered Manager and highly visible Responsible Individual
• Continuous professional development and training opportunities
• Team reward allowance to recognise and celebrate staff achievements
• Refer a qualified staff member scheme - RSWs, Seniors, Team Leaders and Deputies (£250 - £1,000)

Essential Requirements

• Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or equivalent) as a minimum.
• Minimum of 2 years' experience within a residential childcare setting.
• Previous experience as a Senior Residential Support Worker, Team Leader, Shift Leader, or Deputy Manager.
• Sound understanding of children's residential care regulations and Ofsted requirements.
• Strong knowledge of safeguarding legislation, child development, and trauma-informed practice.
• Excellent leadership and organisational skills.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to motivate, support, and develop others.
• Commitment to delivering outstanding outcomes for children and young people.

Desirable Requirements

• Experience supporting OFSTED inspections and quality assurance processes.
• Experience assisting with staff supervision, rota management, and performance development.
• Knowledge of therapeutic and trauma-informed care models.
• Full UK driving licence.

We welcome applications from individuals who are passionate about making a positive impact on children's lives and who are excited by the opportunity to help build and develop a brand-new home from the ground up. This is more than a Deputy Manager role it's an opportunity to become a key part of a new service, contribute to its success from day one, and progress your career within a growing and ambitious organisation