Job description
Imagine opening a children's home where the hard groundwork is already done.
Able is opening Hazel House, a new, long-term home in Sudbury, Suffolk, for four children aged 4 to 17 with learning disabilities, autism and complex needs, and we are looking for the Registered Manager who will bring it to life.
The statement of purpose, a full policy package, an operations manual and a well-planned rota are already in place, so you can focus on building a loving team and welcoming children home. You will have the autonomy to run your home your way, with the backing of a family-led, growing group of homes across East Anglia.
Why Hazel House
• A brand new home to shape from day one, with the groundwork already done
• A high ratio of staff, waking night support, and experienced seniors leading every shift
• Specialist Positive Behaviour Support from our PBS consultant and an in-house PBS champion
• A long-term home where you will see children grow up, from as young as four, until they are ready for adult life
• A love-led culture: theme nights, shout-outs, visual schedules and a team who feel valued
• Real opportunities to progress as Able opens new homes across East Anglia
The role
• Lead Hazel House day-to-day and register with Ofsted as its Registered Manager
• Be the home's designated safeguarding lead
• Build, induct and lead a team of around 20, with monthly supervision and team meetings
• Lead care planning and Positive Behaviour Support, working to reduce restrictive practice
• Make sure the home meets the Children's Homes (England) Regulations 2015 and Quality Standards, and is ready for inspection
• Work closely with families, social workers, schools and health professionals
About you
• At least two years' experience in children's residential care, and at least one year supervising and managing a care team in the last five years
• Experience with children with learning disabilities, autism or complex needs
• Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare or equivalent, and the Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare held or willing to complete it within three years
• Warm, consistent, love-led values and a belief that behaviour is communication
• Full UK driving licence
What you get
• £55,000 to £60,000 a year, depending on experience, plus a structured annual bonus
• A structured annual bonus scheme measured against defined targets aligned with quality of outcomes, not a discretionary gesture
• Relocation support for candidates moving into the region
• Clinical supervision from an external consultant clinical psychologist, and an in-house therapeutic offer under development
• Monthly specialist Positive Behaviour Support input from our PBS consultant
• Fully funded professional development, including the Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare where not already held
• Direct access to the Operations Manager, the Responsible Individual and the Directors. Decisions are made quickly and locally
• Real progression: as the group expands towards ten registered provisions, senior operational roles are filled from within wherever possible
• Workplace pension, eligibility for the Blue Light Card, and a refer a friend scheme
About Able
Able is a family-led children's residential care provider operating across Suffolk and the wider Eastern Region. We run three registered children's homes, Liberty Lodge in Ipswich, Fern Lodge in Leiston and Oak Tree House in Sudbury, all rated Good by Ofsted, with further homes in active development as part of a planned expansion. Every home is built on the same foundation: consistent leadership, a therapeutic culture and management stability. We invest in permanent staff, keep agency use to a minimum, and promote from within.
Able is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check with a check of the children's barred list, satisfactory references, a full employment history and registration with Ofsted, including a fit person interview. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 under the Exceptions Order 1975. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. Able is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from everyone who shares our values.
We would love to show you around Hazel House. Apply with your CV, or email recruitment@weareable.co.uk for an informal conversation.
Screening questions
• Do you have at least two years' experience working in a children's home?
• Do you have at least one year's experience as a Registered Manager, Deputy Manager or team leader in a children's home?
• Do you hold the Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare, or equivalent?
• Do you hold, or are you working towards, the Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare?
• Do you have experience supporting children with learning disabilities or autism?
• Do you hold a full UK driving licence?
