Service Manager

Job Overview

As a Service Manager in Supported Living, you will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of supported living services for individuals with learning disabilities, mental health needs, or physical disabilities. Your role will focus on ensuring that service users receive high-quality care that is person-centered, meets their individual needs, and empowers them to live as independently as possible. You will manage a team of support staff, ensure compliance with relevant regulations and standards, and work closely with other professionals, families, and external agencies to ensure the best possible outcomes for service users.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of individual care plans for each service user, ensuring they are reviewed regularly.
• Ensure that support is delivered in line with care plans, promoting independence, choice, and dignity for service users.
• Monitor the quality of care and support provided, identifying areas for improvement and implementing appropriate changes.

Staff Management and Development

• Manage a team of support workers, including recruitment, training, supervision, and performance management.
• Provide leadership and guidance to the team, ensuring high standards of care are maintained.
• Organize and lead regular team meetings to ensure staff are kept informed and engaged.

Financial and Operational Management

• Manage the service budget effectively, ensuring financial targets are met and resources are used efficiently.
• Ensure that all operational processes, including rotas, staffing levels, and resource allocation, are managed in line with the service’s needs.

Compliance and Health & Safety

• Ensure the service operates in compliance with all regulatory and legislative requirements, including the Care Quality Commission (CQC) standards (or equivalent, depending on location).
• Promote a safe working environment for staff and service users, adhering to all health and safety policies and procedures.

Stakeholder Engagement and Relationship Management

• Build and maintain positive relationships with service users, families, carers, local authorities, and other external agencies.
• Participate in regular reviews with commissioners and other stakeholders to ensure services meet contractual and service level expectations.

Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement

• Regularly assess the quality of care and support provided and implement action plans to address any areas of concern.
• Lead quality audits and ensure outcomes are shared with relevant stakeholders.
• Actively engage in continuous improvement initiatives and support innovation in service delivery.

Skills and Qualifications

• Experience of managing supported living or similar care services, particularly for individuals with learning disabilities, mental health issues, or physical disabilities.

• Strong leadership and team management skills, with experience of supervising and developing staff.

• In-depth knowledge of CQC standards (or relevant local regulations), safeguarding procedures, and health & safety requirements.

• Ability to create and implement person-centered care plans.

• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.

• Budget and financial management experience.

• NVQ Level 3 in Health & Social Care or equivalent (or willing to work towards).