Deputy Manager Children's Home

Deputy Manager – Children’s Residential Care
Location: Dover

Are you an experienced senior professional in residential care looking for a new challenge? We are seeking a dedicated Deputy Manager for a reputable children’s home in Dover. This is a full-time, permanent role offering a minimum of 37.5 hours per week, including two sleep-ins. The successful candidate will support the Registered Manager in delivering high-quality, therapeutic care to children and young people.

Salary and Benefits

• Starting salary of £44,907 per annum
• £1,000 bonus for an Outstanding Ofsted rating
• Travel allowance of up to £40 per week
• Inclusive of sleep-in payments (£60 per sleep-in) and a yearly on-call fee of £1,500
• Private healthcare including optical, dental, and audiological cover
• Loyalty scheme offering extra annual leave after two years, up to five additional days
• Regular team-building activities and social events
• Cycle to Work scheme and health and wellbeing support

About the Role
In this Deputy Manager role in Dover, your key responsibilities include supporting the day-to-day running of the home, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and leading a team to deliver person-centred care aligned with OFSTED regulations and quality standards. You will oversee staff development, formulate care plans and risk assessments, and promote a therapeutic approach in all aspects of care. Your leadership will underpin the organisation’s commitment to safeguarding and achieving positive outcomes for children and young people.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Minimum of 21 years of age
• Proven experience in a senior or management role within residential care
• Knowledge of Children’s Homes Regulations and Safeguarding legislation
• Hold or working towards NVQ Level 5 or Diploma in Leadership & Management in Children’s Residential Services (desirable)
• Strong organisational and communication skills
• Resilient, approachable, and motivated
• Holds a valid driving licence and is able to drive

Essential Skills and Experience

• Experience working with children and young people in a residential setting
• Ability to lead and support staff teams effectively
• Knowledge of child protection, safeguarding, and behaviour management strategies
• Ability to work independently and as part of a supervisory team
• Passionate about improving the lives of children and young people, with a positive, proactive attitude

Key Duties

• Support the Registered Manager in operational management of the home
• Ensure compliance with legislation, regulations, and quality standards
• Lead and motivate staff to deliver high standards of care
• Manage safeguarding procedures and report incidents promptly
• Support staff development and undertake appraisals
• Participate in on-call duties and ensure effective communication with all stakeholders
• Maintain accurate administrative records

If you are committed to making a difference in children’s lives and wish to develop your career in residential care, this exciting opportunity in Dover is perfect for you.

Vetro Recruitment acts as an employment business when supplying temporary staff and as an employment agency when introducing candidates for permanent employment with a client. Vetro is an equal opportunities employer and decisions are made on merit alone.