Deputy Manager - 9 month maternity cover - Bedford

Job Description

Deputy Manager - 9 month maternity cover – Bedford

Due to an internal promotion to cover maternity leave, we are seeking an inspiring Deputy Manager to join the leadership team at Larchwood, our 10-bed residential service Larchwood, in Bedford. Here we provides support to people with learning disabilities, epilepsy, autism, physical disabilities, dementia and bipolar. 

As Deputy Manager, you will work closely with the Registered Manager to ensure exceptional, person-centred care is consistently delivered to the people who call Larchwood home. Residents benefit from strong community connections alongside the independence of having their own space, and you will play a key role in supporting this balance.  

Watch our latest video to see the inspiring work we do and the lives we impact every day: https://vimeo.com/1139996266?fl=pl&fe=sh

Salary: Competitive

Hours: 37.5 per week

Shift pattern: Two week rota – week 1 – Mon – Fri and week 2 - three weekdays and weekend. (THIS SERVICE DOES NOT HAVE SLEEP SHIFTS)  

In this role, you will:

• Foster an open, supportive culture that empowers your team to deliver high-quality, person-led support.
• Lead with passion and professionalism, supporting people living with learning disabilities, autism, physical disabilities, and complex behaviours.
• Champion quality and continuous improvement across all areas of service delivery.
• Build meaningful relationships with your team, families, and the local community.

You’ll lead with purpose, inspire confidence, and drive excellence — shaping the future of care at Heron Court.

What You’ll Bring

• Level 3 qualification in Health & Social Care (Level 5 desirable or working towards)
• Proven experience in team leadership and operational management
• A valid UK driver’s licence and willingness to travel locally
• A genuine passion for delivering outstanding care — and leading by example

If you embody empathy, courage, honesty, equality, and passion, you’ll feel right at home here.

Why Join Lifeways?

When you join us, you’re stepping into a leadership role within a company that truly invests in its people. Our values guide everything we do:
Caring – Honest – One Team – Innovative – Courageous – Equal

You’ll benefit from:

• Leadership development & clear progression pathways
• A supportive, inclusive workplace culture
• Matched contribution company pension scheme
• Access to wellbeing resources & mental health support
• Reward & Recognition programmes
• Exclusive discounts on shopping, tech, travel, and more through CHOICE Rewards

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