Deputy Manager Children's Residential ( Assessment Home )

  • Job Reference: DMPMELK
  • Date Posted: 25 March 2026
  • Recruiter: Horizon Care
  • Website: https://www.horizoncare.co.uk/
  • Location: Salisbury, Wiltshire
  • Salary: £16.50 Per Hour
  • Bonus/Benefits: £5000 Joining Bonus,
  • Sector: Healthcare & Medical
  • Job Type: Permanent

Job Description

Deputy Manager – Children’s Assessment Home - 

 £5,000 Joining & Welcome Bonus!-

£16.50 per hour plus £65 per sleep in 

We are seeking a committed and experienced Deputy Manager to join our new 3-bedroom Children’s Assessment Home. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in establishing a safe, nurturing, and structured environment where children receive high-quality assessments to support positive outcomes.

About You

We are looking for a strong leader who is passionate about improving the lives of children and young people.

  • NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (Level 5 desirable or willingness to work towards)
  • Minimum 2 years’ experience in residential childcare, including supervisory responsibilities
  • Full UK manual driving license
  • A solid understanding of Ofsted regulations and safeguarding practices

The Role

As Deputy Manager, you will support the Registered Manager in the day-to-day running of the home, ensuring the highest standards of care and compliance.

  • Support the management and development of the service in line with regulatory requirements
  • Lead shifts and supervise staff, promoting a positive and accountable team culture
  • Ensure high-quality, child-centred care and assessment practices
  • Monitor and review care plans, risk assessments, and reports
  • Step in to deputise in the absence of the Registered Manager

Key Responsibilities

  • Oversee and support assessment placements for children
  • Ensure accurate observation, recording, and report writing
  • Maintain a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment
  • Promote positive outcomes through effective care planning
  • Ensure safeguarding and child protection procedures are consistently followed
  • Work collaboratively with external professionals and stakeholders

Essential Skills & Experience

  • Strong leadership and team management skills
  • Experience working with children and young people with complex needs
  • Confident in handling challenging behaviors in a calm and professional manner
  • Excellent communication, organizational, and report-writing skills
  • Knowledge of trauma-informed care and child development
  • Experience in residential, secure, or custodial settings (desirable)

What We Offer

  • Competitive salary and progression opportunities
  • Real Living Wage employer
  • Generous Refer-a-Friend scheme
  • Access to Taste card, Blue Light Card, and gym discounts
  • Financial wellbeing support
  • Life assurance
  • Comprehensive induction programme (including shadowing and face-to-face training)
  • Ongoing CPD and career development opportunities
  • Therapeutic training and support via our SHINE programme
  • Employee Assistance Programme – free, confidential support
  • A supportive leadership team and positive working environment

If you’re ready to take the next step in your career and help shape a high-quality assessment service for children, we’d love to hear from you.