Service Manager

Job Title: Service Manager

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced, confident, and dynamic individual to join a team as a Service Manager. The ideal candidate will have at least 2 years of proven management and supervisory experience working with Care Leavers aged 16-21. A Level 4 NVQ (or higher) qualification in Health & Social Care is essential, and knowledge or experience working within the Ofsted framework is desirable.

The Service Manager will be responsible for leading and supporting a team in delivering high-quality services to young people transitioning into adulthood and independent living. The role requires someone who is passionate about supporting young people, with excellent organisational and time-management skills, the ability to work under pressure, and strong IT and literacy skills.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage and support an allocated caseload of young people (aged 16+) to ensure their successful transition to independent living by providing practical, personal, emotional, social, and financial advice.
• Contribute to the assessment and preparation of Pathway Plans to help young people achieve independent living.
• Oversee service delivery, ensuring high standards are maintained in line with regulatory requirements.
• Ensure the provision is ready for inspections and meets organisational KPIs.
• Involve young people in the development and delivery of their Pathway Plans, actively seeking and implementing feedback and changes as necessary.
• Oversee staff supervision, performance appraisals, and rota planning.
• Address any Safeguarding or Disciplinary matters promptly and efficiently.
• Develop and maintain professional relationships with external organisations, such as social services, to support young people in their transition to independence.
• Offer consultation and support to staff and external professionals, ensuring effective solutions are developed to meet young people’s needs.
• Lead one-to-one and group work to prepare young people for leaving care.
• Maintain accurate case records, write reports, and ensure that the diverse needs of young people are met.
• Foster a positive and motivating environment to help young people accept and utilise available resources effectively.

Skills & Qualifications:

• Proven experience of managing and supervising staff in a care setting, especially with young people transitioning from care to independent living.
• NVQ Level 4 (or higher) in Health & Social Care or equivalent.
• Strong understanding of the Ofsted framework (desirable).
• Strong time-management skills with the ability to prioritise tasks under pressure.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• IT and literacy skills for writing and proofreading reports.
• A passion for working with young people and supporting their development.

What is Offered:

• Support for completing nationally recognised qualifications, such as NVQs, to aid career development.
• Career progression opportunities.
• Annual performance bonus.
• Comprehensive training programmes.
• 28 days of annual leave, including Bank Holidays.
• Employee Assistance Programme.

Additional Requirements:

• Availability for out-of-hours emergency calls as part of a rota, with potential shift coverage.
• Responsibility for Health and Safety regulations, GDPR, and Data Protection compliance.
• Ability to deliver training and induction as required.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a dedicated individual who is passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of young people. If you meet the above criteria and are ready to take the next step in your career, we encourage you to apply today!