Working in children’s residential care is a career that offers the chance to make a lasting difference to vulnerable young lives
The Royal Borough of Greenwich is recruiting a Service Leader for its Children’s Homes and 'Staying Close' Pod that will lead on the provision of residential care in the borough.
Ishara Tewary, Strategic Lead for Children in Care and Care Leavers, emphasises why this role matters:
"This is a pivotal leadership role, offering the opportunity to shape and develop innovative, locally-led services that provide stability, safety and nurturing environments for children in care and care leavers."
Ishara Tewery, Royal Greenwich
Children’s homes are more than just places to live: they are vital to helping children and young people overcome trauma, build trusting relationships, and develop their independence. The work in children’s homes is often challenging but deeply rewarding.
This Service Leader role in Greenwich carries responsibility for managing and supporting Registered Managers in existing homes and the borough's Staying Close Pod, with a clear focus on quality and compliance. New homes are being planned, reflecting the council’s commitment to providing a sufficient amount of compassionate care settings.
"As the Service Leader, you will act as the Responsible Individual, ensuring our homes meet all regulatory and Ofsted requirements and contribute to the council’s Sufficiency Strategy"
Ishara Tewery, Royal Greenwich
This is a unique role that comes with a range of benefits:
- A salary of up to £72,480
- An excellent working environment and culture with experienced, professional management and colleagues.
- A generous 29 days’ annual leave, plus Bank Holidays. (increasing to 32 days after 5 years continuous service)
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements with comprehensive IT support.
- Continuous professional development opportunities, including coaching, mentoring and training.
- Access to an enhanced Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for you and your immediate family which provides support on a wide range of work and personal issues
- The chance to work in a vibrant borough with excellent transport links, including the Elizabeth Line and Uber Boat and season ticket loans to get here.
- A Cycle to Work scheme, reduced-rate gym membership and a range of local benefits and discounts
- The security of up to 6 months' full pay and 6 months' half pay (after 5 years continuous service)
- A generous Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), which is a Defined Benefit Scheme offering employer contributions. LGPS builds at a rate of 1/49 (e.g. £20k salary/year/49 = £408.16 pension)
Working in a public sector children’s home role like this also brings significant benefits including job stability, access to professional development, and a supportive team culture. Greenwich offers a flexible working environment, generous leave, and access to a strong Local Government Pension Scheme.
Children’s homes demand leadership that can balance operational excellence with empathy and vision. Supporting staff development, promoting safeguarding, and prioritising the voice of young people are central to success.
Choosing a career in a public sector children’s homes means affirming your commitment to nurturing potential and supporting young people's transitions to independence. If you want a unqiue opportunity to lead a transformational service in one of London’s best performing boroughs, this is an exceptional opportunity.
If you’re an experienced, results-oriented leader in children’s social care with a proven track record in managing residential provision, Royal Greenwich would love to hear from you. View the full job ad below, or contact Ishara.Tewary@royalgreenwich.gov.uk for more information.