Most deputy manager roles in children's care ask you to choose: either get stuck behind a desk or stay on the frontline. This one doesn't. Here you'll split your time between leading your team from the office and working shifts alongside them, so you actually know what's happening on the ground. That's the difference between managing care and leading it
You'll be the bridge between the Registered Manager and the team on shift. That means real influence over how support is delivered to children and young people with complex needs, and a chance to build something sustainable. The role gives you breathing room to think strategically - planning rotas, developing staff, spotting problems early - while staying connected to the actual work that matters
This is leadership that lets you keep your hands in. When you're on shift with your team, you're not inspecting them from a clipboard. You're modelling what good care looks like, spotting who needs extra support, and earning trust that carries weight when you're in the office making decisions. That kind of credibility changes how people work
You'll line manage team leaders and support staff who look to you for direction and development. Building people up - watching someone grow from overwhelmed to confident in their role - that's part of what makes this job real. The provider invests in staff development, so you're not just managing problems; you're building capability
What you will be doing
- Share the leadership of the home with the Registered Manager, spending time both on shift and in the office running the operation
- Line manage team leaders and support staff directly, including supervision, performance management and staff development
- Work hands-on shifts alongside your team, supporting children and young people with complex needs and modelling best practice
- Help plan and deliver quality care that meets each young person's individual needs and goals
- Contribute to rotas, policies, training and the day-to-day systems that keep the home running well
Why you will love working here
- Salary of £27-36K depending on your exact experience and the role - genuine progression as you settle in
- A genuinely hybrid role where you work shifts and office days, so you stay connected to the real work
- Support to gain or develop your Level 3 or Level 5 Diploma if you don't hold one yet
- The chance to lead a dedicated team and shape how quality support is delivered to young people who need it most
- Start ASAP, so you can get going without waiting around
Is this you?
- You hold a Level 3 or Level 5 Diploma in a relevant field, or you're genuinely ready to work towards one - the provider will support you
- You've got real experience supporting people (especially children or young people) with complex needs - you know what that actually demands
- You've line managed staff before and you understand how to bring a team along with you, not just tell them what to do
- You're comfortable moving between frontline and office work; you don't need to hide from shift patterns or admin, and you won't burn out jumping between them
- You're compassionate and thoughtful, but also organised and clear about standards - children need both warmth and structure
Applications close on 12 October 2026. Great roles like this are filled quickly, so the sooner you apply the better.
Safeguarding: We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All roles are subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.