Deputy Manager - Residential Family Assessment Centre

Nucleus Precision Consultants; Havant; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading family assessment centre in Southampton is looking for an experienced Deputy Manager to support the Registered Manager with daily operations, lead the staff team, and ensure high standards of care and safeguarding for children and families. Candidates should be qualified social workers with at least 3 years’ experience in social work and possess strong leadership skills. The role offers comprehensive professional development and a supportive work environment.

Benefits

Professional development and training

Supportive management

Focus on staff wellbeing

Qualifications

• Qualified Social Worker with registration with Social Work England.
• 3+ years’ experience in children’s social work.
• Leadership experience and ability to support staff.

Responsibilities

• Support the Registered Manager with operational management.
• Oversee evidence-based parenting assessments.
• Ensure compliance with OFSTED and legislation.

Skills

Excellent communication skills

Strong decision-making

Crisis management

Commitment to equality and diversity

Education

Qualified Social Worker with current registration

Minimum of 3 years’ post-qualifying experience

Job description

Deputy Manager - Residential Family Assessment Centre

Location: Southampton, England

Salary: £36,000 to £45,000 per annum (depend on experience)

Full-time, Permanent – 40 hours per week

Reports to: Registered Manager

Job Purpose

We are seeking a motivated and experienced Deputy Manager with a strong background in social work, child protection, and family assessments to join our Residential Family Assessment Centre in Southampton. The role involves supporting the Registered Manager in the day‑to‑day operations of the centre, leading the staff team, and ensuring high standards of care, safeguarding, and professional assessment for children and their families.

Key Responsibilities

• Leadership & Management:
  • Support the Registered Manager in the operational management of the service.
  • Provide supervision, leadership, and guidance to staff teams.
  • Take responsibility in the absence of the Registered Manager.
  • Assist with recruitment, induction, training, and performance management.
• Assessment & Safeguarding:
  • Oversee and contribute to comprehensive, evidence‑based parenting assessments.
  • Ensure robust safeguarding practices.
  • Monitor and escalate child welfare concerns appropriately.
• Quality & Compliance:
  • Ensure compliance with OFSTED and relevant legislation.
  • Assist with audits, inspections, and quality assurance.
  • Develop and implement policies and care plans.
• Communication & Partnership:
  • Build relationships with families and professionals.
  • Represent the centre in meetings and court as required.
  • Maintain accurate records and reports.

Person Specification

Essential Qualifications & Experience

• Qualified Social Worker with current Social Work England registration.
• Minimum of 3 years’ post‑qualifying experience in children’s social work.
• Experience in residential family assessment or similar setting.
• Leadership and supervision experience.
• Strong safeguarding and assessment knowledge.

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent communication and report‑writing skills.
• Strong decision‑making and crisis management.
• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Desirable

• Management qualification or willingness to train.
• Experience in OFSTED‑regulated services.

Why Join Us?

• Join a passionate, multidisciplinary team.
• Access to professional development and training.
• Supportive management and staff wellbeing focus.

Application Process

To apply, please submit your CV and a covering letter outlining your suitability for the role.

Nucleus Horizons: Guiding Families Toward Brighter Futures