Be part of a brand-new Residential Family Assessment Centre and help shape a service from the very beginning. We're building a supportive, reflective and values-led team where professional judgement, collaboration and continuous learning are encouraged.
We are seeking a motivated and experienced Deputy Manager with strong leadership skills and experience in safeguarding, child protection and supporting children and families. The role involves supporting the Registered Manager in the day-to-day operation of the centre, leading the staff team, and ensuring high standards of support, safeguarding, and professional assessment for children and their families.
Our centre provides evidence-based parenting assessments within a safe, nurturing and therapeutic environment. Parents live at the centre with their children (aged two years and under) for approximately 12–20 weeks while their parenting capacity is assessed.
As we provide a 365-day service, the role includes early, late, and bank holiday shifts, together with participation in sleep-in rota where required. You will be required to work weekends as part of the rota, normally every other weekend, and participate in on-call rotas where required.
About the role
As Deputy Manager, you will play a key leadership role in the day-to-day operation of the centre. Reporting to, and working alongside the Registered Manager, you will lead shifts, supervise staff, oversee parenting assessments and help ensure children and families receive safe, consistent and high-quality support.
Key responsibilities
· Support the Registered Manager in the operational management of the service. Provide supervision, leadership, and guidance to staff teams.
· Deputise for the Registered Manager in their absence.
· Assist with recruitment, induction, training, and performance management.
· Oversee and contribute to comprehensive, evidence‑based parenting assessments.
· Ensure robust safeguarding practices. Monitor, respond to, and escalate child welfare concerns appropriately.
· Ensure compliance with Ofsted and relevant legislation. Assist with audits, inspections, and quality assurance.
· Support the development and implementation of policies, procedures and individual assessment plans.
· Build relationships with families and professionals. Represent the centre in meetings. Maintain accurate records and reports.
What we're looking for
We welcome applications from experienced residential childcare professionals and/or qualified Social Workers who have the skills and experience to lead within a Residential Family Assessment Centre.
Essential
- Experience in residential family assessment or similar setting.
- Experience of leading, supervising and developing staff.
- Strong safeguarding and assessment knowledge.
- Ability to remain calm, resilient and professional in challenging situations.
- Commitment to child-centred, evidence-based practice.
- Self-motivated and adaptable to a fast-paced setting.
Desirable
- Qualified Social Worker with current Social Work England registration.
- Minimum of 3 years’ post‑qualifying experience in children’s social work.
- Hold, or be willing to work towards, the Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare (England) or an equivalent relevant qualification.
- Full UK driving licence.
- Willingness to undertake further professional development.
What we offer
· 28 days annual leave inclusive of bank holidays.
· Company pension.
· Enhanced bank holiday pay.
· Comprehensive induction programme.
· Ongoing training and professional development.
· Regular supervision and reflective practice.
· Career progression opportunities.
· Free on-site parking.
· Overtime opportunities.
· Sleep-ins paid at £60 each.
Unfortunately, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role.
Safeguarding
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references and safer recruitment checks.
If you’re passionate about supporting families and providing high quality support, and are motivated to help establish a high-quality Residential Family Assessment Centre where your leadership and support will make a real difference, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and be part of building a service that supports safer futures for children and their families.
Pay: £38,000.00-£42,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
