Gap healthcare is recruiting on behalf of one of our clients for a Registered Manager for a children’s Service based in Swanley, Kent. Location: Swanley, Kent Salary Range: £44,000 – £65,000 (depending on qualifications and experience) Reports To: Responsible Individual and Directors Purpose of the Role The Registered Manager is responsible for the overall management, leadership, and operation of the home, ensuring high-quality care that meets the needs of children and young people. The role involves ensuring compliance with statutory regulations, maintaining safeguarding standards, and creating a safe, nurturing environment that supports the physical, emotional, and social development of the children. Key Responsibilities Operational Leadership Ensure the home complies with the Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015, Ofsted Standards, and other relevant legislation. Develop, implement, and review policies and procedures to maintain the smooth running of the home. Lead on regulatory inspections and act as the primary point of contact for Ofsted and other external agencies. Maintain accurate records and ensure appropriate reporting, including children’s case files, risk assessments, and incident reports. Child-Centred Care Promote the welfare, safety, and well-being of all children and young people in the home. Develop and oversee individual care plans tailored to the needs of each child, ensuring their voice is central to decision-making. Ensure the home provides a nurturing, therapeutic environment that supports children in overcoming trauma and achieving positive outcomes. Team Management Recruit, train, supervise, and develop staff, fostering a positive and motivated team culture. Ensure all staff receive regular supervision, appraisals, and opportunities for professional development. Monitor staff performance and address any concerns or issues promptly and effectively. Create staff rotas that meet the needs of the children and ensure appropriate staffing levels at all times. Safeguarding and Compliance Take overall responsibility for safeguarding and act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). Ensure all safeguarding concerns are promptly reported and managed in line with local safeguarding procedures. Conduct regular audits to ensure the home meets all health and safety requirements. Ensure robust risk management processes are in place to identify and mitigate risks to children and staff. Budget and Resource Management Manage the home’s budget, ensuring financial accountability and efficiency. Oversee the maintenance of the home and its resources to create a safe and welcoming environment. Liaise with external agencies, local authorities, and other stakeholders to secure appropriate placements and funding. Engagement with Stakeholders Build and maintain positive relationships with children’s families, local authorities, social workers, and other professionals. Represent the home at professional meetings, reviews, and conferences. Ensure feedback from children, families, and professionals is used to improve the quality of care provided. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) Maintain Good or Outstanding ratings from Ofsted inspections. High levels of satisfaction and positive outcomes for children and young people. Staff retention and engagement rates. Compliance with regulatory and legal requirements. Effective management of the home’s budget and resources. Essential Criteria Qualifications Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare (or equivalent). Strong understanding of the Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015 and Quality Standards. Evidence of ongoing professional development. Experience At least 2 years’ experience in a leadership or management role in a children’s residential care setting. Proven experience working with children with complex needs, including trauma and challenging behaviors. Demonstrable track record of managing safeguarding processes and achieving positive inspection outcomes. Skills and Attributes Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities. Ability to manage budgets and resources effectively. Compassionate, empathetic, and child-centred approach to care. Resilience and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Desirable Criteria Knowledge of therapeutic care approaches, such as attachment-based or trauma-informed models. Experience working with multi-agency teams and external stakeholders. Full UK driving license. If you are interseted in this Opportunity, please get in touch