The Registered Children's Cluster Home Manager will hold responsibility for the administration and oversight of a cluster of 2, small children's residential homes. The role requires ensuring that the highest standards of care and support are provided to the children living in the homes, so they have every opportunity to grow and develop reaching their full potential. The manager will provide leadership and supervision to the cluster team of staff, manage budgets, and ensure compliance in both homes with all relevant legislation and regulations.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership and Management
• Provide robust leadership and direction to the cluster staff team, fostering a positive and supportive environment for both staff and children. A restorative and relationship-based approach is expected.
• Recruit, train, and oversee staff, ensuring they are equipped with the required skills, attitude and knowledge to fulfil their roles effectively.
• Conduct regular staff supervision and appraisals, establishing and monitoring progress of performance targets for individuals and the team.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures that are embedded in the organisations culture and vision to ensure the efficient operation of the home within the boundaries of the relevant legal framework.
Care and Support
• Ensure that the children living in the home are provided with a safe and stable environment to thrive in.
• Ensure the physical, emotional, and social needs of the children are understood by the staff team and are met.
• In line with the placing Local Authorities Care Plan, individual children’s residential Care Plans are developed and implemented, ensuring the residential Care Plans are tailored to each child's needs, identified risk and include children’s aspirations.
• Promote a culture of respect, dignity, and independence among the children living in the home.
• Facilitate access to education, healthcare, and recreational activities for the children.
Compliance and Quality Assurance
• Ensure that the cluster homes operate in compliance with all relevant legislation, including the Children's Homes (England) Regulations 2015 and the Quality Standards for Children's Homes.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation, including care plans, risk assessments, incident reports and any response to incidents of concern.
• Conduct regular internal audits and respond to external inspections/reg 44 visits to ensure high standards of care are maintained.
• Respond promptly and notify the relevant bodies and stake holders to any safeguarding worries, complaints or concerns raised by children, staff, or external stakeholders.
Financial Management
• Manage the cluster home's budget, ensuring resources are utilized effectively and efficiently across both homes.
• Prepare financial reports and forecasts as required.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings and increased efficiency.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Qualifications
• Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare or an equivalent qualification.
Experience
• Previous (within the last 2 years)/Current Registered Manager status with Ofsted
• Proven experience in preparing and leading on Ofsted inspections
• Extensive knowledge of child protection and safeguarding procedures.
• Experience in developing, implementing and monitoring impact of residential care plans and risk management tools.
• Extensive experience of working effectively with external stakeholders
• Experience in managing budgets and resources effectively.
Skills and Abilities
• Excellent leadership and management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a team.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with children, staff, and external stakeholders.
• Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize own and members of the team’s tasks effectively.
• Resilience and the ability to remain calm and respond effectively under pressure.
• Commitment to own and others continuous professional development.
Personal Attributes
• Compassionate and empathetic, with a genuine commitment to improving the lives of children and young people.
• Highly motivated and proactive, with a strong sense of responsibility and accountability.
• Flexible and adaptable, with the ability to respond to changing needs and priorities.
• Integrity and a strong ethical framework.
• Creative and innovative, with the ability to develop and implement new ideas and initiatives.
Working Conditions
• Full-time position, with some on-call responsibilities outside of regular working hours.
• Based across 2 residential children's home’s, with travel required for training and meetings.
• Competitive salary, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
Application Process
Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume and cover letter outlining their qualifications and experience. Successful shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend an interview and may be asked to undergo a series of assessments to evaluate their suitability for the role.
This job description and person specification aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the role, and the key attributes required for success. However, they are not exhaustive, and the Registered Children's Cluster Home Manager may be required to undertake additional duties as necessary to ensure the seamless operation of the home and the well-being of the children living in the home.
The role is subject to
• Successful Interview
• Current DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check
• 2 positive references, 1 must be from current or last employer
• Employment history check, including any gaps
• Permit to work
• Successful registration with Ofsted