Day in the life of a Registered Manager at Tangier Road Children's Home

Children's homes offer an important care service in Portsmouth. Teams build positive relationships with children, supporting them to manage their emotions and take responsibility for their behaviour, enabling them to reach their full potential and secure a stronger future.

An exciting vacancy has arisen for a new Registered Manager to lead and manage Tangier Road Children's Home, the home accommodates up to four children.

We spoke to Carl Whittaker, Registered Manager to learn more about this opportunity and what it takes to succeed in this challenging yet rewarding role.

Can you tell us a little about Tangier Road Children's Home?

Tangier Road Children's Home cares for up to four children between the ages of 8 and 18. The home's child-centred practice means that we work in ways that empower our children to take control of their lives. The focus of our work lies within restorative approaches to better understand the drivers behind our children's behaviours.

Children in our care are involved in planning and decision making based on what is important from their own perspective, and also their age and understanding. We support children to flourish and grow in confidence so that they recognise their own potential and self-worth. Children are loved, valued and listened to.

The home is well supported by the children's social workers and benefits from strong partnership working in the city.

The home is a detached property situated on the outskirts of Portsmouth and is purpose-built. Every effort is made to make it a homely, warm, nurturing and happy place to live and work.

What is a typical day in the life of a Registered Manager?

This a varied role and examples day-to-day responsibilities include:

• Staff management and providing leadership, support and feedback to enable them to carry out their roles effectively.
• Compliance with regulations, such as the children's home regulations and quality standards.
• Overseeing the development, implementation and review of individual care plans for each child, ensuring they meet their specific needs, goals and aspirations.
• Collaborating with other professionals, such as social workers, therapists, and education colleagues to ensure co-ordinated and holistic support for the children.
• Implementing robust safeguarding procedures to protect the children from harm, abuse, and exploitation.
• Spending time alongside the children and staff.

What qualities does someone need to succeed in this role?

Strong leadership skills are vital for guiding and inspiring a team of staff members, promoting a positive work culture and fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.

Empathy and compassion are essential qualities for understanding and responding to the needs of both staff members and the children we care for.

Managing a children's home can be challenging as it deals with complex situations, crises and unexpected events. Being resilient and adaptable is crucial for effectively managing and responding to these challenges, maintaining a positive outlook and finding solutions to problems that arise. However, using the effective support that is in place aids positive outcomes.

A strong advocate for the rights and well-being of children, a successful manager ensures that children's voices are heard, needs are addressed, and their best interests are prioritised.

What are some of the challenges and rewards of working as a Registered Manager?

Working in a children's home can be demanding and emotionally intense. Managers need to focus on children's needs, staff support, training and creating a positive work environment to mitigate challenges. Other elements of the role include staying up to date with regulations and standards and adapting practice to ensure the safety and well-being of the children in our care.

Despite the challenges, being a manager in a children's home and contributing to the well-being and development of children does bring a sense of purpose, fulfilment and satisfaction.

One of the most rewarding aspects is the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable children and creating a safe, nurturing and supportive environment where children can thrive. You provide guidance, support and a sense of stability, becoming trusted figures in the children's lives.

What makes Portsmouth a unique place to work?

Working in Portsmouth offers a unique opportunity to collaborate, network, and engage with experts in various fields, all within a supportive and inclusive community that values cultural diversity. The city’s strong partnerships and commitment to relationship-based, trauma-informed, and restorative practices, empower the collective team to provide compassionate support for families, young people, and children. Joining Portsmouth City Council means being part of a community that values continuous development, co-produces solutions with families, and aims to keep children safely at home whenever possible.

Apply today!

If you'd like to make a difference to the lives of children and young people in Portsmouth, now is your chance to apply for the role of Registered Manager at Tangier Road Children's Home. View all the details below and submit your application before Sunday 17 November 2024.

Apply Today