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Deputy Manager - Residential Care
Location: Hertfordshire
Salary: £28,000-£30,000 per annum
Job Type: Full-time, 12-hour shift pattern

A well-established and values-led residential childcare provider is seeking a passionate and experienced Deputy Manager to join their team at a children's home in Hertfordshire. This is a rare opportunity to step into a leadership role where your professional judgement, care values, and mentoring skills will shape the lives of both children and the care team supporting them.

About the Role

As Deputy Manager, you will work closely with the Registered Manager to oversee the day-to-day operations of the home and ensure the highest standards of care for children and young people. You will lead by example, manage shifts, supervise staff, and take an active role in decision-making and planning. This role combines hands-on care, strategic oversight, and team development in a truly meaningful setting.

What You'll Gain

Real autonomy and responsibility in managing the home's operations. You'll lead shifts, oversee placement plans and risk assessments, and deputise in the absence of the Registered Manager. A fast-tracked opportunity to develop your leadership portfolio and prepare for a future Registered Manager position

Meaningful, trauma-informed work with children and young people. You'll be directly involved in building relationships, guiding emotional recovery, and advocating for young people at care reviews and professional meetings. The chance to make a measurable difference in the lives of children, supporting them to overcome adversity and reach their full potential

Staff supervision, mentoring, and development responsibilities. You will shape practice standards and guide a team of Team Leaders and Residential Childcare Workers. You'll leave a legacy by nurturing a strong, reflective, and resilient care team

Involvement in audits, compliance, and external inspections. You will support OFSTED preparation, Reg 44 visits, and quality assurance. Enhanced professional credibility and experience with regulatory frameworks

Key Responsibilities

Work collaboratively with the Registered Manager to manage the home effectively

Lead shifts, staff rotas, and day-to-day operations

Supervise and mentor team members

Oversee placement plans, risk assessments, and safeguarding actions

Attend and contribute to reviews, strategy meetings, and external audits

Model positive relationships with young people and support their emotional and behavioural development

Uphold policies, promote equality and diversity, and ensure regulatory compliance

What We're Looking For

Minimum of 1 year's experience in a Deputy Manager or Team Leader role within residential childcare

A solid understanding of safeguarding, trauma-informed practice, and care planning

A confident leader with strong communication and mentoring skills

Commitment to child-centred, therapeutic approaches

A full UK driving licence is desirable

Enhanced DBS (or willingness to obtain)

To apply, please submit your CV and a short statement outlining your suitability for the role. Early applications are encouraged as interviews will be scheduled on a rolling basis