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Job description

Are you ready to lead, inspire, and make a real difference in the lives of children and young people with disabilities? The Whistlestop, our residential short breaks home in Randalstown is looking for a passionate and skilled Deputy Residential Manager to join us on this journey! Why Join Us? This is your chance to be at the heart of an innovative service, where your expertise will help create a nurturing, supportive environment for children and young people to thrive. You will work closely with the Registered Manager to bring our vision to life, ensuring that every short break at The Whistlestop has a lasting positive impact. For full list of responsibilities, essential & desirable skills, please see Job Description/Personnel Specification on employer's website by following the Apply Direct button.

Responsibilities

• Support the Registered Manager in maintaining high standards and compliance with RQIA regulations.
• Line manage residential staff.
• Take charge and lead the team in the Manager's absence.
• Lead on staff planning to include staff rotas and shift planning around the child specific needs for each day.
• Work collaboratively with the Trust and parents/carers in the development of care plans for the children and young people using the service.
• Provide a safe, caring, and stimulating environment where children and young people flourish.
• Handle safeguarding concerns with professionalism and care.
• Deliver on our commitment to excellence by writing insightful, professional reports.
• Train and develop the staff team in line with the requirements of the regulator, RQIA and the Children's Home Minimum Standards.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• Hold the Level 3 Diploma in Health & Social Care (Northern Ireland) within your first period of Registration and be willing to work towards the Level 4 Certificate in Principles in Leadership & Management (Northern Ireland).
• Within the last 5 years, worked for at least 3 years in a position relevant to the residential care of children.
• Knowledge of completing staff, volunteer or student supervision.
• Experience in responding and coordinating responses to safeguarding issues.
• Must be registered or willing to register with Northern Ireland Care Council (NISCC) on appointment.
• A valid driving licence or alternatively be able to demonstrate how you can meet the mobility requirements of the post.
• Please see website for full details.

Further Information

Contract: Permanent (Subject to Funding) Hours: 37 hours per week, The hours can be worked flexibly across the week. Due to the nature of the service, there is an expectation that you will work a minimum of two days per month on either a Saturday or Sunday. Additionally, the role requires on-call cover on a rota basis alongside the Registered Manager. Closing Date: Midnight, Sunday 15th February 2026 Interview Date: Week commencing 23rd Feb 2026 Important Notes: Applicants must be registered with the NI Social Care Council (NISCC) or willing to register by appointment. A waiting list will be maintained for similar roles for up to 12 months. Successful applicants will be required to undertake an Enhanced Access NI with Child Barred List Check.