Children's Service Manager

Job Title: Residential Children's Service Manager Overview

We are seeking an experienced, confident, and values-driven Registered Manager to lead a specialist children's home supporting children and young people with learning disabilities, autism, and associated mental health needs. This is an exciting opportunity to lead a nurturing, structured, and high-performing residential service that promotes positive outcomes and meaningful progress for every child.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership and operational management of the children's home.
• Ensure compliance with Children's Homes Regulations (2015), safeguarding legislation, and inspection standards.
• Act as the Registered Manager and Designated Safeguarding Lead.
• Lead on care planning, behaviour support, and person-centred practice.
• Manage, supervise, and develop a multidisciplinary staff team, including Deputy Manager and Team Leaders.
• Oversee staffing, rotas, training, performance management, and recruitment.
• Manage budgets and resources effectively, ensuring financial compliance and accountability.
• Promote a safe, inclusive, and homely environment where children feel valued and heard.
• Participate in the 24-hour on-call rota.

Essential Requirements

• NVQ Level 3 (or equivalent) and Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care (or willingness to work towards).
• Strong knowledge of Children's Homes Regulations (2015), safeguarding, and inspection frameworks.
• Experience in a senior role within children's residential care or disability services.
• Excellent leadership, organisational, and communication skills.
• Commitment to promoting the welfare, rights, and independence of children and young people with complex needs.

Additional Information

The role requires flexibility, including evenings, weekends, and participation in an on-call rota. A full UK driving licence is desirable.

Search is an equal opportunities recruiter and we welcome applications from all suitably skilled or qualified applicants, regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/beliefs, sexual orientation or age.