Most deputy manager roles in children's care feel like admin jobs with a caring hat on. This one isn't. You'll be leading shifts, inspiring staff, and shaping the daily life of children who desperately need adults who bring both skill and genuine warmth to the table

Imagine walking into work where your job isn't just to manage tasks, but to create the conditions where vulnerable children actually feel safe enough to heal and thrive. That's what this home does. It's modern, beautifully designed, and full of staff who chose to be here because they believe in this work. You'll lead shifts, support your team to get better at what they do, and work alongside a Registered Manager who respects you as a partner, not a subordinate

No two days are the same, and that's exactly why people who are truly energised by children's care stay in this role. One moment you're problem-solving with a young person who's had a rough morning; the next you're coaching a newer staff member through a tricky situation; the next you're ensuring everything runs in line with Regulations so the children's safety and wellbeing never slips. You'll have the training hub and head office in Taunton behind you, not just procedures, but real people who want you to succeed

This organisation genuinely believes every child deserves a nurturing, loving home. That belief isn't decoration; it shapes how they treat their staff too. You'll have access to free mortgage advice, the Wisdom app for your own wellbeing, Blue Light Card discounts, and paid training to grow into leadership (including NVQ Level 5 if that's your next step). But more than perks, you'll have a team that values learning, works together, and knows this matters

What you will be doing

  • Lead shifts and set the tone: you're the presence that keeps the home calm, safe and functioning smoothly, especially when things get busy or challenging
  • Support and develop your team: mentor staff, help them reflect on practice, give them confidence to do their best work with the children
  • Partner with the Registered Manager: keep everything compliant with the Regulations, handle admin and logistics so the home runs like clockwork, and flag issues early
  • Be the bridge: you're in the moment with children and staff, understanding their needs and feeding that back to management so decisions are grounded in reality

Why you will love working here

  • Salary of £38,161.78 plus on-call rota and sleep-in payments, recognising your seniority and the hours you give
  • Paid training and development including support to work towards NVQ Level 5 in Leadership and Management if you want to progress further
  • Genuine wellbeing support: health and wellbeing access via the Wisdom app, free personalised mortgage advice, Blue Light Card access, and an Employee Assistance Programme
  • A team and organisation that actually believes in what it does: modern solo and dual occupancy homes across Somerset, backed by a friendly head office and dedicated training hub

Is this you?

  • You hold NVQ Level 3 in childcare or NVQ Level 4 in Children, Young People and Families Practitioner (or equivalent), and you've spent real time in children's residential care environments
  • You're organised, professional and proactive: the kind of person who spots what needs doing and makes it happen without being asked
  • You're a natural leader: you inspire people, you're resilient under pressure, and you bring energy and positivity even on hard days
  • You've got a full driving licence and the practical ability to get to the home when rota patterns demand it
  • You're genuinely committed to outstanding care: this isn't just a job title to you, it's about real outcomes for real children

Applications close on 12 October 2026. Great roles like this are filled quickly, so the sooner you apply the better.

Safeguarding: We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All roles are subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.

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