Deputy Manager – Children’s Residential Home

About the role

BudWood Ltd, part of Polaris Community, is seeking a Deputy Manager to support two children’s residential homes in Poole. This nine‑month fixed‑term position involves leading staff, ensuring high‑quality care, and helping young people develop the skills needed for independent adulthood.

Key responsibilities

• Act as Home Manager in the Area Manager’s absence, following guidance.
• Motivate and develop staff through supervision, coaching, and mentoring.
• Maintain high standards of care and accommodation in line with placement plans.
• Build trusted relationships with young people, promoting safety, respect and personal development.
• Collaborate with families, schools, health services and local authorities.
• Ensure safeguarding training and policy compliance for all staff.
• Assist with rota planning, budget oversight and timesheet management.
• Lead new‑staff inductions and conduct absence review meetings.
• Oversee accurate record‑keeping, including risk assessments and weekly reports.
• Support home finances, domestic standards, meal preparation and maintenance.
• Participate in inspections, audits and health & safety compliance.
• Take part in on‑call rota, supervision and continuous professional development.

Required profile

• Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care, Children and Young People, or equivalent (or working towards).
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in a residential children’s setting.
• Strong understanding of safeguarding, therapeutic models and child‑centred care.

Required skills

• Budget and financial management.
• Record‑keeping and documentation accuracy.
• Team leadership and staff development.
• Effective communication with young people, families and external partners.

What we offer

• Pro‑rated salary £24,701 – £28,108 per annum, dependent on experience.
• 33 days annual leave (including bank holidays).
• Company pension scheme.
• Employee discount scheme.
• Access to wellbeing programmes and monthly clinical supervision.
• Ongoing professional training and supervision.