Responsible Individual – Children’s Residential Services, Tees Valley

Salary £51,356 - £54,495 per annum Salary Band Over £50,000 Post Type Permanent Hours Per Week Full time

Categories Social Care - Children Service
Directorate N/A Published Date 19/05/2026 Closing Date 07/06/2026

This is a new role within Darlington for a motivated, dynamic leader with the skills and knowledge to support and develop the service across three areas. As the Responsible Individual for Children’s Homes, Taster Flats and Supported Lodgings, you will provide strategic oversight of all three areas, ensuring the highest standards of care, safeguarding, and compliance. You’ll lead a team of Registered Managers, influence practice across services, and play a pivotal role in expanding our residential offer to meet the needs of our children and young people.

What you’ll do

• Hold statutory responsibility as the Responsible Individual for children’s homes, supported lodgings, and taster flats.
• Provide strategic leadership and oversight of all in-house residential services.
• Drive continuous improvement and inspection readiness, ensuring compliance with Ofsted and regulatory frameworks.
• Lead safeguarding across the residential service and champion best practice.
• Manage recruitment, retention, and workforce development for Registered Managers and staff teams.
• Oversee budgets and contribute to strategic planning for service growth.
• Influence policy development and shape the future of residential care in Darlington.

What we’re looking for

• A proven leader with experience as a Responsible Individual, Registered Manager, or equivalent senior role.
• In depth knowledge of Children’s Homes Regulations 2015, Ofsted frameworks, and safeguarding legislation.
• A Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare (or equivalent).
• At least five years’ experience in a childcare setting, including two years in management.
• Strong strategic, analytical, and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to inspire and influence.
• Commitment to excellence and improving outcomes for children and young people.

Why join us?

• Blended working with the requirement to travel across our Darlington-based homes.
• 32 days Annual Leave, plus Bank Holidays, with option to purchase additional Annual Leave (pro‑rata for part time working)
• Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme with option to make Additional Voluntary Contributions.
• Flexible working.
• Generous Maternity, Paternity and Adoption Leave schemes.
• Staff equality forums.
• Green Car Leasing Scheme.
• Access to a wide range of training, learning and development.
• Physiotherapy service.
• Confidential counselling service.
• Great wellbeing offer.
• Cycle to Work Scheme.
• Dolphin Centre Fit for Life Discounts.
• Local and National retailer discounts.
• Vivup employee benefit app and Lifestyle Savings.
• Arriva Employee Travel Club.
• Access to professional development and leadership opportunities.

Contact: Victoria Hamer, Service Manager 07305823211