Deputy Service Manager

We are seeking a Deputy Manager to support and inspire our dedicated team, helping young people thrive and prepare for independent futures.

Position: Deputy Manager
Salary: £30,000 – £35,000 per annum (depending on experience and qualifications)
Location: Reading
Hours: Full time, 37.5 hours per week, including some evenings and weekends

As Deputy Manager, you will play a vital role in leading a supported accommodation service for young people aged 16 and over. You’ll work alongside the Registered Manager to ensure a safe, nurturing, and high-quality environment that empowers young people to build independence and resilience.

Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting the Registered Manager in the day-to-day leadership of the service.

• Supervising and guiding staff to deliver consistent, person-centred care.

• Acting as Deputy Safeguarding Lead, ensuring best practice in safeguarding and compliance.

• Overseeing staff rotas and operational decision-making.

• Supporting young people with pathway plans, life skills, education, and community engagement.

• Ensuring inspection readiness and contributing to quality monitoring and service development.

You’ll be a motivated and resilient leader with a passion for supporting young people to achieve positive outcomes.

Essential skills and experience:

• A relevant Level 3 qualification in Health & Social Care, Youth Work, or equivalent (and willingness to work towards Level 5).

• Experience working with young people in supported accommodation, semi-independent or residential care.

• Strong knowledge of safeguarding and child protection.

• Experience supervising or mentoring staff.

• Excellent communication, organisational, and problem-solving skills.

Desirable:

• Progression towards or achievement of a Level 5 qualification in Leadership & Management.

• Previous experience in a Deputy or Team Leader role within a regulated setting.

• Understanding of trauma-informed practice and adolescent development.

• Full UK Driving License

This service provides supported accommodation for young people aged 16 and older, helping them to develop essential life skills and prepare for adulthood within a safe and nurturing environment. The organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Other roles you may have experience of could include: Deputy Residential Manager, Team Leader, Care Manager, Youth Services Manager, Supported Accommodation Manager, Children’s Home Deputy Manager, Senior Support Worker.