Deputy Manager Children's Home

Join Our Team as a Deputy Manager!

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of young people? Budwood, part of Polaris Community, is on the lookout for a dedicated Deputy Manager to join our vibrant team in Poole. This is a fantastic opportunity to support our mission of providing high-quality care in our Children's Homes and 16+ Supported Accommodation.

About Us

At Budwood, we believe in creating a nurturing environment for young people who have faced challenges in their lives. Our goal is to help them feel safe, build confidence, and develop the skills they need for a successful transition into adulthood.

Role Overview

As our Deputy Manager, you will play a crucial role in leading our team and ensuring that our young residents receive the best possible care. You will guide them towards independent living while fostering a supportive and empowering atmosphere.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as Home Manager in their absence, with guidance from the Area Manager.
• Support and motivate the staff team through supervision, coaching, and development planning.
• Ensure high-quality care and accommodation for young people, aligned with their placement plans.
• Build trusted relationships with young people, promoting safety, respect, and personal development.
• Champion a culture of listening, dignity, and empowerment for all young people.
• Promote collaborative working with families, education providers, health services, and local authorities.
• Ensure staff are trained in safeguarding and compliant with policies.
• Be an ambassador for Budwood's therapeutic model, CATCH.
• Assist with rotas, budget management, and timesheet oversight.
• Lead new staff inductions and conduct absence review meetings.
• Oversee record-keeping, ensuring accuracy and clarity.
• Guide the team in supporting young people's learning and emotional development.
• Manage home finances when needed.
• Ensure high domestic standards, including meal preparation and home maintenance.
• Support inspections, audits, and uphold health & safety compliance.
• Participate in the on-call rota.
• Engage in supervision, appraisal, and continuous professional development.

What We Need From You

• Diploma Level 3 in Health and Social Care, Children and Young People, or equivalent (or working towards).
• At least 2 years' experience in a residential children's home or Supported Living service.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.
• Understanding of The Children Act 1989 and 2004, and Supported Accommodation Quality Standards.
• Knowledge of safeguarding, health & safety, and compliance in care settings.
• Experience in residential care, youth work, or working with young people with Emotional Behavioural Disorders (EBD).
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent communication and organisational abilities.
• A proactive, flexible, and child-centred approach.

Working Conditions

Contract Type: Full-time, 9-month fixed term contract
Salary: £24,701.04 - £28,108.08 pro rata, depending on qualifications and experience
Location: Poole
Specific Hours: 40 hours per week

Why Join Us?

At Budwood, we value our team and offer a range of benefits to support your well-being and professional growth:

• 33 days annual leave (including bank holidays)
• Company pension scheme
• Employee discount scheme
• Access to wellbeing programmes
• Monthly clinical and professional supervision
• Ongoing professional training and development

Budwood Limited is an equal opportunities employer and encourages applications from all qualified candidates. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. Successful applicants will undergo an enhanced DBS check.

If you're ready to make a meaningful impact and grow with us, we can't wait to hear from you!