Join Our Team as a Deputy Manager!

Are you ready to make a difference in the lives of young people? At Budwood, part of Polaris Community, we are dedicated to providing high-quality care in our Children’s Homes and 16+ Supported Accommodation. We believe in creating a nurturing environment where young individuals can feel safe, grow in confidence, and develop the skills they need for adulthood.

About the Role

We are seeking a passionate and motivated Deputy Manager to support two of our Children’s Residential Homes in Poole. In this role, you will lead a dedicated team, ensure high standards of care, and guide young people towards independent living.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as Home Manager in their absence, under guidance from the Area Manager.
• Support and motivate the staff team through supervision, coaching, mentoring, and development planning.
• Ensure high-quality care and accommodation for young people, aligned with 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 and refresher requirements.
• 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 (e.g., risk assessments, placement plans, weekly reports), ensuring accuracy and clarity.
• Guide the team in supporting young people’s learning and emotional development.
• Manage home finances when needed.
• Ensure domestic standards are high, including meal preparation and home maintenance.
• Support inspections, audits, and uphold health & safety and fire 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 it.
• 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 skills.
• A proactive, flexible, and child-centred approach.

Working Conditions

Contract Type: Full time, 12-month fixed term contract
Salary: £32,934.72 - £37,477.44 per annum (dependent 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
• Employee discount scheme
• Access to wellbeing programmes
• Monthly clinical and professional supervision
• Ongoing professional training & supervision

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

Join us in making a positive impact on the lives of young people. We can’t wait to meet you!