Children’s Residential Home Manager (H530/H531/H532)

REFERENCE: H530/H531/H532

About the role:

The Manager of the Children’s Residential Home will be responsible for the effective and safe day-to-day management of the home, ensuring that the highest standards of care are maintained in line with Ofsted requirements, relevant legislation, and the organization’s policies. The Manager will lead and motivate the team to provide a nurturing, child-centred environment that prioritizes the safety, well-being, and personal development of the children and young people in their care.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Leadership & Management:

Provide strong leadership to staff, ensuring a shared vision and commitment to the children’s welfare and development.
Recruit, supervise, and appraise staff, fostering a positive team culture and high performance.
Implement and oversee staff training and professional development.
Conduct regular team meetings and ensure effective communication within the team.

2. Safeguarding & Compliance:

Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, regulations, and standards, including the Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015 and Quality Standards.
Act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead, ensuring all staff understand and adhere to safeguarding policies and procedures.
Maintain and oversee accurate records, care plans, and risk assessments.

3. Care Delivery:

Foster a compassionate and nurturing environment that promotes the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of children.
Develop and review individualized care plans in collaboration with children, families, and relevant professionals.
Promote positive behaviour and manage challenging behaviours using appropriate strategies and interventions.
Facilitate education, health care, and social development opportunities for children and young people.

4. Regulatory & Quality Assurance:

Prepare and lead the home through Ofsted inspections, ensuring the home meets and exceeds required standards.
Monitor and evaluate service delivery, implementing improvements where necessary.
Ensure compliance with safer recruitment practices and maintain staff files to regulatory standards.

5. Financial & Resource Management:

Manage the home’s budget, ensuring resources are allocated effectively and within financial limits.
Oversee the maintenance and health and safety of the property.

Essential Qualifications & Experience:

NVQ Level 3 in Health and Social Care (Children and Young People).

NVQ Level 5 in Leadership and Management (or willingness to work toward it).

Experience: At least 2 years of experience working in a children’s residential care setting, including 1 year in a supervisory role.
Comprehensive understanding of child development, safeguarding practices, and trauma-informed care.

Essential Skills & Attributes:

Strong leadership and organizational skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Compassionate, patient, and empathetic toward children with complex needs.
Ability to handle challenging situations calmly and effectively.
Commitment to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Resilience and emotional intelligence to support children and staff during crises.
Problem-solving and decision-making skills with a focus on child-centred outcomes.
High level of professionalism and integrity.

Desirable Skills & Experience:

Experience working with children with emotional, behavioural, or mental health difficulties.
Knowledge of therapeutic approaches such as attachment theory or trauma-informed care.
Previous success in achieving positive outcomes during Ofsted inspections.

*Full UK driving license is essential.*

Values and Principles:

Passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of children.
Committed to creating a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment.
Open to learning and adapting to changing needs and regulations.
Strong advocate for children’s rights and well-being.

Additional Requirements:

Willingness to undergo an enhanced DBS check.
Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and participate in an on-call rota if required.
Commitment to continuous professional development and ongoing training.