Deputy Service Manager

Deputy Service Manager

Location: Cumbria
Hours: Full-time, 36 or 48 hours per week (7-day rota including on shift and admin tasks participation in an on-call rota)
Contract: Permanent
Salary:£18.50 per hour
Refer a Friend: £250 bonus (T&Cs apply)

We are seeking an experienced Deputy Service Manager to provide operational leadership across multiple care services supporting individuals with autism, learning disabilities, and mental health needs, including those who present with complex or challenging behaviours.

This is a senior, field-based leadership role with responsibility for service quality, compliance, staff performance, and stakeholder relationships across a defined geographical area. You will ensure services are safe, effective, responsive, and well-led, in line with CQC Fundamental Standards.

• Provide operational oversight and leadership across multiple services within your area
• Ensure high-quality, person-centred support and full CQC compliance
• Lead, supervise, and develop Service Supervisors and Support Workers
• Carry out quality audits, service visits, and implement improvement plans
• Act as safeguarding lead and provide oversight for complex care needs
• Build strong relationships with individuals, families, commissioners, and professionals
• Manage KPIs, staffing, rotas, budgets, and participate in the on-call rota

We are looking for a Deputy Service Manager who will:

• Lead by example and set clear standards of professionalism, compassion, and accountability
• Take ownership of service performance, quality, and outcomes across their area
• Be visible, approachable, and supportive to teams, providing clear direction and guidance
• Proactively identify risks, concerns, or areas for improvement and take decisive action
• Champion person-centred practice and ensure individuals are supported to live meaningful, fulfilled lives
• Work collaboratively with internal teams and external partners to achieve the best outcomes
• Maintain accurate records, strong governance, and a culture of continuous improvement

• Proven experience managing multiple services within health and social care
• Strong working knowledge of CQC regulations, safeguarding, and risk management
• Experience supporting individuals with autism, learning disabilities, and complex needs
• Confident leader with excellent communication and organisational skills
• Able to work autonomously while contributing to wider organisational goals
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel within the region and as the business needs.

• You will have real autonomy to lead services and influence how care is delivered
• The opportunity to shape, develop, and improve services across your area
• A varied role combining leadership, strategy, quality, and relationship-building
• The chance to make a genuine, positive impact on people’s lives every day
• Clear progression opportunities within a growing organisation
• Ongoing training, coaching, and professional development tailored to you
• Supportive senior leadership who value your expertise and input

• £250 when you introduce a Friend *
• Perkbox benefit (Shopping & groceries savings)
• Employee wellbeing assistance package (EAP & Virtual GP)
• Free specialist training
• Ongoing training & coaching
• Opportunities to progress & develop
• Pension enrolment
• Paid holiday
• Sick pay
• Working with a fun, energetic and supportive team
• 24 days of annual leave, with each additional year of continuous service, you will receive an additional day, up to the maximum of 28 days + bank holidays
• A learning but high paced environment from day onewith a supportive team& support with career progression

* Refer a friend bonus is payable at

• £125 once the referred individual has successfully completed their first shift.
• £125 once the referred individual has successfully completed their probation period.

Website:
Specialist Homecare Group | Personalised Home & Complex Care