Deputy Manager – Supported Living Services
Location: Clacton (and other local areas) | Hours: 40 hours per week | Role Type: Full-Time, Permanent
At CFT Care Ltd, part of the Optimo Care Group, we are committed to delivering exceptional, person centred support for adults with a wide range of complex needs. With over 1,500 dedicated professionals across the group, we pride ourselves on working collaboratively with individuals, families, local authorities, and health partners to achieve positive outcomes that empower lives.
Although the office is based in Clacton, CFT covers services in surrounding areas such as Walton on the Naze, Colchester, Elmstead Market, Great Holland and other areas of Essex. It is a requirement that you will be able to travel to these services as and when required.
Our PRIDE Values
We live and lead with:
- Person-Centred – Individuals come first
- Responsive – Tailored, effective care and support
- Innovative – Driving continuous improvement
- Delight – Exceeding expectations every day
- Engagement – Inclusive, open, and collaborative
About the Role
We are seeking a proactive, compassionate, and dedicated Deputy Manager to join our Supported Living team in Clacton.
As Deputy Manager, you will support the Registered Manager with the operational oversight of the service managers and services for individuals with learning disabilities, autism, complex needs, and behaviours that may challenge. You will help ensure smooth service delivery, maintain compliance, and support staff to deliver high-quality, person-centred care.
This is a hands-on leadership role where you will lead by example, deputise in the absence of the Registered Manager, and contribute to the ongoing improvement of care quality and team performance.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the Registered Manager in overseeing daily operations across the supported living service
- Provide direct supervision, coaching, and mentoring to service managers.
- Assist with the development and implementation of personalised support plans
- Promote and uphold compliance with CQC standards and internal policies
- Participate in audits, care reviews, and quality improvement initiatives
- Build positive relationships with families, professionals, and partner agencies
- Champion a safe, respectful, and empowering culture for staff and people we support
- Maintain accurate records and contribute to service performance reports
What You’ll Bring
- Experience working in supported living or social care settings
- Experience supporting individuals with learning disabilities, autism, and behaviours that challenge
- Strong working knowledge of safeguarding, risk management, and care planning
- Experience supervising or mentoring team members
- NVQ Level 3 in Health and Social Care (or equivalent) required
- Willingness to work towards Level 4/5 in Leadership for Health and Social Care
- A positive, person-centred approach with excellent communication skills
- On Call responsibility outside of regular working hours.
- Full UK driving licence is essential.
What We Offer
- Career Development – Clear pathways for promotion and leadership roles
- Training & Support – Access to the Optimo Learning Academy for continual development
- Employee Assistance Programme – Health Assured EAP to support your wellbeing
- Flexible Working – We aim to accommodate work-life balance where possible
- Reward Gateway – Discounts, recognition tools, and wellbeing resources
- £250 Refer-a-Friend Scheme – Help us grow our team and get rewarded
If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact and grow your career within a supportive and progressive care organisation, we’d love to hear from you.
INDCFT