Most care managers spend their days firefighting in understaffed services that have lost their way. This isn't one of them. We're building something brand new from the ground up in Dartford, and we need an experienced manager who's ready to shape a first-class service and lead a passionate team that actually gets results for young people aged 16-24
This is a chance to be a founding member of a genuinely fresh start. The two Directors running this service are a qualified Social Worker and an experienced Manager with over 30 years combined experience working with young people. They know what works because they've done it themselves, and they're investing in building the right culture from day one. You won't be fixing someone else's mess; you'll be creating something you're proud of
Your input will shape how this entire service develops. We're launching a first-class training programme for staff, and you'll be central to designing how your team learns to work therapeutically with young people who sometimes display challenging behaviour. This is the opposite of a box-ticking operation. The Directors are genuinely committed to securing the best outcomes, and they want managers who share that passion
You'll have real support. As Registered Manager, you'll lead the team day-to-day, but you won't be isolated. The management team will back you, and you'll have the space to build a culture where staff feel developed and young people feel genuinely cared for. A 95% paperless environment means less admin wrestling and more focus on what actually matters
What you will be doing
- Lead and develop a dedicated staff team, taking responsibility for their workload, performance, supervision and personal development
- Establish trusting, warm relationships with the young people living in the home and ensure their care plans are followed and updated as their needs change
- Safeguard the physical and mental health of young people, managing access to medical services, medication administration and first aid as needed
- Create and maintain all systems the home needs to run safely and smoothly: staff communications, policies, procedures and record-keeping (both paper and electronic)
- Ensure the home meets all Ofsted national standards for semi-independent accommodation and be willing to work towards full registration
- Work flexibly to meet the changing demands of supporting 16-24 year-olds in a semi-independent setting
Why you will love working here
- Competitive salary of £26,000-£28,000 plus a generous performance-based bonus scheme that rewards real impact
- A first-class leadership and development programme designed specifically to grow your skills and confidence
- Social care technology training and a 95% paperless working environment, so you spend your time on young people, not paperwork
- Free DBS Check Referral Scheme plus full holiday pay
- The genuine backing of experienced Directors who've been in your shoes and want to build something excellent with you
Is this you?
- Is this you: at least 2 years of experience supporting children and young people in care services within the last 2 years, with a proven track record of managing teams
- You have real experience supporting young people with challenging behaviour and know how to build therapeutic relationships that actually work
- You hold a relevant Level 5 qualification (NVQ Diploma in Health and Social Care, or in Children's and Young People's Services), or you're actively working towards one
- You're genuinely passionate about getting the best outcomes for vulnerable young people, and you want to lead a service that reflects your values
- You're willing and ready to work towards Ofsted Registration as Registered Manager
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.