Deputy Manager - Children's Home

Safe Haven Talent Limited; Plumstead; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable children's residential care provider in Plumstead is seeking a Deputy Manager to support the Registered Manager in daily operations. The role involves ensuring compliance with regulations, providing leadership to staff, and maintaining high standards of care for children and young people. Ideal candidates will have a Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare, strong leadership skills, and previous supervisory experience. Competitive compensation and opportunities for professional development offered.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Flexible rota system

Generous bonus schemes

Comprehensive training programs

Structured career progression

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a supervisory or deputy role within a children’s residential setting.
• Strong knowledge of Ofsted regulations and safeguarding procedures.
• Commitment to child-centred practice.

Responsibilities

• Support the Registered Manager in day-to-day operations.
• Oversee care plans and risk assessments.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety legislation.

Skills

Leadership and guidance

Communication skills

Problem-solving skills

Education

Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare

Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare

Job description

As a Deputy Manager, you will support and deputise for the Registered Manager in the day-to-day running of a children’s residential home. Your primary responsibility is to ensure the home operates in full compliance with the Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015 and the Quality Standards, placing the welfare, safety, and development of children and young people at the centre of all practice.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Staff Support

Provide clear leadership, guidance, and role modelling to staff teams.

Support the Registered Manager with supervision, appraisals, and professional development.

Oversee daily operations and ensure smooth running of the home in the Manager’s absence.

Promote effective teamwork via meetings, communication, and reflective practice.

Care Quality, Safeguarding & Compliance

Ensure all care delivery meets Ofsted expectations and statutory regulations.

Oversee care plans, risk assessments, and behaviour support strategies.

Embed strong safeguarding practices and ensure concerns are reported appropriately.

Contribute to audits and continuous improvement initiatives.

Administration & Reporting

Maintain accurate records, logs, and reports in line with regulatory standards.

Support effective management of budgets and resources.

Prepare reports for internal and external stakeholders when required.

Health & Safety

Ensure full compliance with health and safety legislation.

Maintain a safe, nurturing, and clean environment.

Conduct regular checks for fire safety, first aid, and maintenance requirements.

Training & Development

Mentor and support staff with professional learning and ongoing development.

Ensure all mandatory training is completed within required timescales.

Promote reflective practice and a culture of excellence.

On-Call & Rota Management

Participate in the on-call rota and provide out-of-hours support.

Assist with rota planning for safe staffing levels.

Be flexible to cover shifts when needed.

Requirements

Qualifications

• Essential: Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or equivalent).
• Desirable: Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare (or willingness to work towards it).

Experience & Knowledge

Previous experience in a supervisory or deputy role within a children’s residential setting.

Strong knowledge of Ofsted regulations, safeguarding procedures, and Quality Standards.

Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.

Professional Expectations

Commitment to child-centred practice.

Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries.

Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Benefits

We are proud to be recruiting on behalf of a reputable children’s residential care provider that is committed to creating an exceptional working environment. Their focus is on supporting, valuing, and empowering their staff so they can deliver the highest standard of care. The organisation recognises that its team is central to its success and actively promotes wellbeing, professional development, and a strong sense of purpose.

Competitive Compensation

Our client offers highly competitive salaries alongside a flexible rota system. Shifts are planned well in advance to promote a healthy work–life balance and help prevent staff burnout.

Bonus & Recognition Scheme

To foster a culture of appreciation, the organisation provides generous bonus schemes across a variety of roles. Staff achievements are celebrated through regular monthly, quarterly, and annual recognition awards.

Training & Professional Development

The organisation invests heavily in comprehensive training, beginning with a robust induction programme and continuing through ongoing professional development opportunities. Staff are supported in achieving nationally recognised qualifications, including :

• Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare
• Level 5 Diploma in Leadership & Management for Residential Childcare

Clear Career Progression

Every role comes with a structured development plan to support long-term career growth.

Junior Residential Support Workers receive the training and experience needed to progress into Senior and Team Leader positions.

Deputy Managers benefit from tailored mentoring and development designed to prepare them for Registered Manager or Responsible Individual roles.