Head of Care

Join Our Team as the Head of Care!

Company: North Lakes Children's Services
Location: Carlisle
Contract Type: Full Time, Permanent
Salary: £50,000 - £60,000 (dependent on experience)
Specific Hours: 40 hours per week
Responsible To: Operations Directors and Responsible Individuals

Who Are We?

At North Lakes Children's Services, we are passionate about providing therapeutic residential care and education for boys aged 6-18. Our mission is to enhance the resilience, self-esteem, and life outcomes of the young people we support. We are on the lookout for an experienced Head of Care to lead our dedicated team and oversee all our services.

Why Join Us?

We believe in taking care of our team just as much as we take care of our children. Here’s what you can expect:

• 🌴 30 days annual leave to recharge and refresh.
• 💼 A company pension scheme to secure your future.
• 🛍️ Access to an Employee Discount Scheme for a variety of retail options.
• 💚 Wellbeing support through our Employee Assistance Programme.
• 🎉 Enhanced pay for Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
• ⏳ Opportunities for overtime to boost your earnings.
• 📈 Clear pathways for career progression.
• 📚 Comprehensive annual training in areas like Child Development and Therapeutic Parenting.

Your Role

As the Head of Care, you will:

• Provide professional leadership and management of all our children's homes.
• Ensure that children and young people are safeguarded and making good developmental progress.
• Create an environment where children are encouraged to reach their full potential.
• Support the commercial growth and sustainability of our services.
• Promote a culture of high aspiration and constructive support within your team.
• Engage strategically with other departments to continuously develop our services.
• Manage the administration of the home efficiently and effectively.
• Lead, motivate, and develop your staff team in a positive culture.
• Represent North Lakes Children's Services professionally in the community.

About You

We are looking for someone who:

• Holds a recognised social work qualification (e.g., QCF Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management).
• Has at least 2 years of relevant experience in residential care, including staff supervision.
• Is committed to making a real difference in the lives of young people.
• Demonstrates thorough knowledge of Children's Home legislation and safeguarding procedures.
• Has a person-centred approach to care and leadership.
• Possesses excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Is licensed to drive a manual car and has access to a vehicle with business insurance.

Our Commitment

North Lakes Children's Services is an equal opportunities employer, and we encourage applications from all qualified candidates. We are dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. All candidates will undergo thorough reference checks, including an enhanced DBS, as safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do.

If you are ready to make a meaningful impact and lead a passionate team, we want to hear from you!