Job Description
Registered Manager – Children’s Residential Care
Location: Leeds
Salary: Competitive
Contract: Permanent, Full-Time
Are you passionate about improving the lives of children and young people? Leeds City Council is seeking a dedicated and experienced Registered Manager to lead one of our children’s residential care homes. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of young people while leading a motivated team of care professionals within a safe and nurturing environment.
Our goal is to create a city where every child is safe, healthy, and has the opportunity to reach their full potential. As part of our Child Friendly Leeds initiative, we are looking for someone who shares this vision and is committed to helping children thrive.
About You
As the Registered Manager, you will bring extensive experience in children’s residential care, alongside the appropriate qualifications. If you don’t already hold the Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare, we are committed to funding your studies to help you achieve this qualification within two years.
Essential qualifications and experience include:
A degree-level qualification and Level 3 Diploma in Residential Child Care
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare (or willingness to complete within 2 years)
At least 2 years of experience in children’s residential care, with at least 1 year in a supervisory or management role
In-depth knowledge of the Children’s Homes Regulations 2015 and associated quality standards
Experience with behavioural change programmes and working with families
Strong leadership skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a team
About the Role
As the Registered Manager, your primary responsibility is to ensure that children and young people receive the highest quality care, focusing on their individual needs and achieving the best long-term outcomes. You will lead the staff team, collaborating with professionals, families, and communities to provide a safe, stimulating, and supportive environment for the children in your care.
Your leadership will be crucial in shaping the ethos and direction of the home, contributing to the overall development of our children’s residential services. We are committed to supporting your growth as a leader, offering access to high-quality training and development opportunities.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead and manage the staff team to ensure the delivery of high-quality care
Foster positive relationships between children and staff, encouraging a strong sense of trust and belonging
Collaborate with families, professionals, and other stakeholders to ensure effective care plans
Advocate for the children and young people in your care, ensuring their views are heard and acted upon
Manage the recruitment, training, supervision, and development of staff
Ensure compliance with all regulatory and statutory requirements, including the Children’s Homes Regulations 2015
Oversee health, safety, and risk management within the home
Support the emotional and physical wellbeing of children through structured care plans and behavioural support
Promote positive outcomes for young people, reducing the likelihood of criminalisation and supporting educational achievements
Ensure that care plans are developed, delivered, and evaluated in line with individual needs
What We Offer:
Competitive salary and annual leave entitlement
Membership of the West Yorkshire Pension Fund with generous employer contributions
Flexible and hybrid working options, subject to service requirements
Clear career progression and professional development opportunities
Access to a range of staff benefits designed to improve wellbeing and enhance work-life balance
How to Apply:
Please complete the online application form, ensuring all sections are filled out accurately. If you would like an informal chat about the role, please contact Chris Graefe, Service Delivery Manager for residential services, on 0113 278 4812 or via email at Chris.Graefe@leeds.gov.uk.
Additional Information:
A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be carried out for preferred candidates.
All new appointments are subject to a satisfactory six-month probationary period.
Candidates must be eligible to work in the UK, and those without the right to work may need to apply for a visa under the Skilled Worker route.
Commitment to Equality and Safeguarding:
Leeds City Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. We are an equal opportunities employer and aim to build a workforce that reflects the diversity of the community we serve. We are also a Disability Confident leader and a Stonewall Top 100 employer for inclusion.
Key Qualifications and Experience Required:
Degree-level education with Level 3 Diploma in Residential Child Care (or equivalent)
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare (or the willingness to obtain within 2 years)
At least 2 years’ experience in residential care for children, with 1 year in a management or supervisory capacity
Strong knowledge of the Children’s Homes Regulations 2015 and relevant quality standards
Experience in behavioural management and care planning
Ability to lead and inspire a team to deliver high-quality care
Essential Skills and Characteristics:
Strong leadership and management skills
Excellent communication, organisational, and time management abilities
Ability to work effectively with children, families, and other professionals
A commitment to promoting the welfare and rights of children and young people
Ability to manage complex situations and challenging behaviours
Sound knowledge of safeguarding procedures and child protection laws
Desirable:
Experience in a similar management role within a residential care setting
Knowledge of multi-agency work and collaboration within child care systems
A social work qualification is beneficial but not essential
If you’re ready to make a real difference in the lives of children and young people, we would love to hear from you. Join us and be part of an organisation that values your leadership and dedication to outstanding care.
Leeds City Council is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and encourage applications from all backgrounds.