Unit Manager Children’s Mainstream Residential Services

Job description

Unit Manager Mainstream Children’s Residential Services
Location: Drogheda Co Louth
Contract Type: Full time permanent

Role Purpose

The Unit Manager is responsible for the overall leadership, management, and operation of a residential unit providing care to children and young people in a mainstream setting. The role ensures that high-quality, child-centred care is delivered in line with statutory regulations, national standards, and organisational policies.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide effective leadership and supervision to the staff team.
• Promote a positive, therapeutic, and safe environment for children and staff.
• Manage staff rotas, recruitment, performance, and development.
• Lead team meetings and ensure effective communication within the unit.
• Ensure care delivered is child-centred, trauma-informed, and rights-based.
• Oversee the development and implementation of individual care plans.
• Ensure each child’s needs (emotional, social, educational, and health) are met.
• Promote positive behaviour support strategies and safe care practices.
• Ensure compliance with all child protection and safeguarding procedures.
• Act as Designated Liaison Person (if applicable).
• Ensure the unit operates in line with relevant legislation and standards (e.g., national standards for children’s residential care).
• Prepare for and participate in inspections.
• Maintain accurate records, reports, and documentation.
• Manage the day-to-day running of the unit, including budgets and resources.
• Ensure health & safety standards are maintained.
• Oversee risk assessments and incident management.
• Work collaboratively with families, social workers, schools, and external professionals.
• Represent the service at meetings, reviews, and case conferences.
• Promote positive relationships with stakeholders.

Essential Requirements

• A Level 7/8 qualification in Social Care, Social Work, or a related field.
• Minimum 3-5 years’ experience in children’s residential care.
• At least 2 years in a supervisory or leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of child protection, HIQA standards, and relevant legislation.
• Experience in staff management and team leadership.
• Management qualification
• Experience working in mainstream residential settings.
• Training in therapeutic or trauma-informed approaches.