​What is a deputy manager in social care?

A deputy manager is a senior team member who supports the service's running. The role will require supporting the registered manager while providing care to the end users. A deputy manager will be involved in the day-to-day running of the service, staff management and ensuring the high standards of care are met.

What are the roles and responsibilities of a deputy manager?

While the roles and responsibilities of a deputy manager may differ for each service, a key role is supporting senior management.

• Ensuring all documentation is up to date.

• Help prepare the service for inspections.

• Line manage staff by providing rotas, having regular meetings and leading a team.

• Assist with recruitment and be on the interview panel.

• Complete care plans and risk assessments.

• Mentor staff and lead by example.

• Handle safeguarding issues.

• Cover a registered manager if they are absent.

A deputy manager may be required to work shifts and provide direct care to end users in addition to the administrative work.

Skills and experience needed to become a deputy manager:

There are specific skills, experience and qualifications needed to become a deputy manager, as they are a senior member of staff. Deputy managers often begin their career as a support worker and progress into the role.

Each service will have different requirements, but the most common skills, experience and qualifications needed are:

• NVQ Level 5 Leadership and Management in Social Care.

• Or 2/3 years’ experience in a team leader role with an NVQ Level 3 and working towards a level 5.

• Experience working in the social care sector.

• Knowledge of risk assessments and care plans.

• Knowledge of safeguarding, Ofsted or CQC regulations.

• Management and people management skills.

• Experience allocating shifts and creating rotas.

• Leadership qualities, including providing training, motivating a team and carrying out appraisals.

What does the day-to-day role look like as a deputy manager?

The role of a deputy manager will change between services, but there are key tasks they will be required to do daily:

• Handle handover from previous staff on shift.

• Assess end users.

• Support the registered manager with administrative tasks, such as care plans, inspections etc.

• Provide support to the end users.

• Work shifts and handle any situations or concerns that may arise.

Where can the role of a deputy manager take you?

The career step of a deputy manager in social care would be a registered manager. Transitioning from a deputy manager to a registered manager is a big step, requiring leadership development and regulatory knowledge. A registered manager will have less involvement in providing care to the end user as the role shifts from operational support to full leadership responsibility.

How CHA can support you in finding a deputy manager role:

Our permanent social care team have a wide range of deputy manager roles available. A dedicated consultant will guide you through each step, from enhancing your CV, to interview prep and negotiation. Our consultants are specialists in the social care industry and will give you expert advice on the job marketing.

If you are interested in a deputy manager role, contact Alex Day (aday@charecruitment.com / 07990044722 ) for more information.

Hear what our recently placed candidate has to say:

Working with Alex Day has been a breath of fresh air. From the start, he supported me throughout my interview process, always making me feel at ease. Once I received the job offer, Alex kept in contact to ensure my onboarding was smooth and that everything was progressing well. Even a month into my new role, Alex still occasionally checks in to see how I'm doing, which shows his genuine care and dedication. I highly recommend Charles Hunter Associates for anyone looking for great support throughout their career journey.