Working in social care is incredibly rewarding, but it’s not for everyone.

Take our short quiz to find out whether you’re suited to life as a carer.

  • Patience

    Many of our service users need help with day-to-day activities like shopping, cooking and personal wellbeing. Our carers are there to help them manage these activities whilst teaching them the skills they need to live independently.

    Question

    How would you feel about helping someone improve their life skills?

  • Support

    Young people and adults with mental health conditions or learning disabilities often need support with medical appointments, housing options and claiming benefits. Part of a carer’s role is to advocate on their behalf to ensure they get the medical and financial support they’re entitled to.

    Question

    How confident are you speaking up in meetings and appointments?

  • Decision making

    Caring for people with complex needs often requires you to make decisions and act quickly and professionally.

    Question

    Would you say you’re a quick thinker in challenging situations?

  • Flexibility

    As a carer, your role will sometimes involve staying overnight or working flexible hours to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the person you’re caring for.

    Question

    Are you able to be flexible with your working hours and adapt to the changing needs of the service user?

  • Fitness

    Caring for people with complex needs can be great fun, and we get involved with as many physical activities as we can.

    Question

    Are you a hands-on person who likes to get active and enjoy the outdoors?

  • Adaptability

    It’s important that all our service users are looked after in a consistent and professional way in accordance with their personalised care plan even when their behaviour is challenging.

    Question

    Do you have the attention to detail and professionalism needed to ensure the rules are followed, even in a difficult environment?

Great! We think you’d be suited to a career in complex care.

Want to know more?

A career in care could be for you, but you might want to find out more.

Discover more about life as a carer or read about our businesses.

Question  of 

Deputy Manager

  • Southampton, Hampshire
  • Permanent
  • £30000 - £35000 per annum + life assurance, critical illness cover
  • Carer for 4
Or

Job Overview

Deputy Manager

Sportfit Support Services Ltd
Southampton | Permanent | £30,000 - £35,000 per annum + Life Insurance, Critical Illness Cover, Medicash

Lead with Purpose, Inspire with Compassion
At Sportfit, we believe that every child deserves a safe, nurturing environment to grow and thrive. As our Deputy Manager, you'll play a vital role in shaping the lives of vulnerable children and young people. Your leadership will empower a dedicated team to build a positive atmosphere, allowing each child to reach their full potential. This is an incredible opportunity to make a lasting impact, providing guidance and support not only to the children in our care but also to the staff who are committed to their well-being.

Your Role
This position isn't just about management; it's about leading with heart and making a real difference. You'll be:

  • Supporting the Registered Manager to create a warm and welcoming home where every child feels safe and valued, ensuring everything runs smoothly while adhering to legislation and safeguarding standards.
  • Inspiring a dedicated care team to bring their best selves to work each day, building an inclusive and positive culture where everyone feels empowered to contribute and make a difference.
  • Overseeing the development of personalised care plans that celebrate each child's individuality, helping them thrive and discover their unique talents and dreams.
  • Facilitating engaging training and development sessions that motivate staff, providing support and encouragement as they grow in their roles and connect with the children.
  • Building strong, collaborative relationships as the go-to person for families, external agencies and stakeholders, creating a community that supports the children's journey and well-being.

What We're Looking For
You're not just a manager - you're a leader with a passion for empowering others.

  • You have proven leadership skills and a heartfelt commitment to helping young people.
  • You understand the complexities of care management and turn challenges into growth opportunities.
  • Your communication skills build genuine rapport with staff, children and partners, creating a supportive environment.
  • You're well-versed in relevant legislation and best practices in residential care, ensuring impactful, compassionate decisions.

Why Join Sportfit?
We are a team that values each member's contributions and believes in creating a supportive, empowering work environment. In return for your dedication, we offer:

  • Job security: Be part of a trusted, established organisation where you can feel secure in your role.
  • Growth opportunities: Unlock your potential with training and development that helps you advance in your career.
  • Make a difference: Experience the reward of positively impacting young lives every day.
  • Work-life balance: Enjoy a flexible schedule and policies that prioritise your personal well-being.
  • Guidance and support: Thrive with experienced leaders who are here to mentor and support your growth.
  • Perks including free parking, meals, life assurance, and critical illness coverage
  • Exciting employee benefits like our Health Cashback Scheme and Employee Referral Bonus.

If you are a dedicated and compassionate professional with the skills and experience to excel in this role, and you are ready to embark on a rewarding journey where every day brings new opportunities to make a difference, then SportFit is the place for you! Join us in creating brighter futures for the next generation.

Our organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the health and well-being of all our young people. We believe our young people deserve a safe, happy and healthy environment where we expect all staff to share this commitment.


We have a full safeguarding policy which staff are to familiarise with before working at Sportfit.


This post is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) and is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act. All offences will be considered.