Responsible Individual (RI) – Start-Up Children’s Home (Part-Time / Consultancy Basis)
Job Type
Part-Time | Consultancy | Flexible
Salary / Rates
Hourly Rate: £40 – £60 per hour (depending on experience and Ofsted history)
Day Rate: £350 – £500 per day
Expected commitment:
- Pre-registration phase: 2–4 days per month
- Post-registration: 1–2 days per month (minimum), plus remote oversight
Rates negotiable for candidates with proven Good or Outstanding inspection outcomes.
Location
Chelmsford Essex
Hybrid – On-site presence required during registration phase
About the Role
We are launching a new children’s residential home and are seeking an experienced and credible Responsible Individual (RI) to lead governance and regulatory oversight from the pre-registration stage through to first inspection.
This role is critical to ensuring the home is successfully registered with Ofsted and operates in full compliance with:
- Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015
- Care Standards Act 2000
This is not a symbolic role. We are looking for an RI who will provide robust oversight, constructive challenge, and clear strategic direction from day one.
Key ResponsibilitiesPre-Registration Phase:
- Lead governance readiness for Ofsted registration
- Oversee development of policies and compliance systems
- Support the Registered Manager through fit person interview preparation
- Ensure Statement of Purpose and operational model align with regulations
- Establish monitoring and oversight frameworks (Reg 44 & Reg 45 readiness)
Post-Registration:
- Provide effective supervision and professional challenge to the Registered Manager
- Monitor safeguarding practice and risk trends
- Review serious incidents and notifications (Reg 40)
- Ensure effective quality assurance systems are embedded
- Review and evaluate Regulation 44 and 45 reports
- Support preparation for Ofsted inspections
Essential Requirements
- Previous experience as a Responsible Individual and/or Registered Manager
- Experience supporting Ofsted registration of new homes (highly desirable)
- Strong knowledge of Children’s Homes Regulations 2015 and Quality Standards
- Proven track record of Good or Outstanding inspection outcomes
- Strong safeguarding expertise
- Ability to evidence governance impact and leadership oversight
Ideal Candidate Profile
We are seeking someone who:
- Understands the additional scrutiny and risk in start-up services
- Can build compliance systems from scratch
- Is confident in holding leaders to account
- Brings credibility and assurance to external stakeholders
- Is proactive rather than reactive
What We Offer
- Competitive consultancy rates
- Flexible working arrangements
- Opportunity to shape a new service from the ground up
- Long-term partnership opportunity as the service grows
Safeguarding Commitment
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS and safer recruitment checks.
Pay: £20,000.00-£40,000.00 per year
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Writtle CM1 4HR
