About the RoleThis is a rewarding opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable children. You will play a vital role in leading a team of residential support workers, providing a safe and nurturing environment for unaccompanied asylum-seeking children.Key Responsibilities:
- Assist the Registered Manager in ensuring the home meets regulations and quality standards.
- Lead a team of residential support workers, fostering a positive and supportive work environment.
- Act as a corporate parent to the children, ensuring their safety and well-being until they move on to a permanent home.
- Oversee day-to-day operations, monitor professional practice, and address safeguarding concerns.
- Conduct handover meetings, delegate tasks, and ensure residential support workers complete their assignments.
- Manage resident records, ensuring accuracy and accessibility for relevant professionals.
- Schedule and attend appointments with the children, documenting them comprehensively.
- Report incidents related to child, staff, or third-party safety.
- Maintain room and belongings checklists for new arrivals and departures, safeguarding children's possessions.
- Develop a weekly activity plan to provide stimulating and educational experiences for the children.
- Work flexible shifts to monitor staff performance and provide ongoing support.
- Promote equality and respect for diversity among children and staff.
- Provide regular supervision and development plans for residential support workers.
- GCSE level education (or equivalent) and a relevant qualification in childcare (e.g., NVQ Level 3 Caring for Children and Young People).
- Experience working with and caring for children in a residential setting.
- Proven ability to lead a small team on rotating shifts.
- Experience implementing children's services in accordance with relevant regulations.
- Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) for interacting with children and professionals.
- Strong leadership skills and a commitment to role-modeling best practices.
- Ability to prioritize, work independently and collaboratively, and seek guidance when needed.
- Proficiency in computer skills, including IT systems and record-keeping software (e.g., Liberi).
- Willingness to participate in ongoing training, supervision, and team meetings for professional development.
- Ability to travel as required by the role.
- Commitment to upholding equality and diversity principles in the workplace.
- Strong knowledge of child development.
- Understanding of processes, systems, laws, and regulations impacting children in local authority care.
- Awareness of issues affecting children such as child sexual exploitation (CSE), gangs, and the Prevent agenda.
- Familiarity with General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and confidentiality protocols.