Reports to: Almshouse Manager/Trustees

Place of work: Stoop Court, Leisure Lane, West Byfleet KT14 6HF

Hours: 16.5 a week, plus participation in the out-of-hours on-call rota, including evenings, weekends and bank holidays, in accordance with the charity’s policy.

Purpose of the Role

The Deputy Almshouse Manager supports the Almshouse Manager in delivering high-quality independent living services, ensuring the Almshouse is safe, well-maintained and welcoming. The role involves supporting residents, overseeing day-to-day property management, maintaining compliance with relevant legislation and charity policies, and ensuring continuity of service by deputising for the Almshouse Manager when required.

Key Responsibilities

Resident Support

  • Build positive, respectful relationships with residents and promote independent living.
  • Respond to resident enquiries and signpost appropriate support services.
  • Carry out welfare calls and report/record concerns.
  • Ensure the wellbeing and safety of vulnerable adults in accordance with the Charityā€™s policies and procedures.
  • Report and take immediate action in relation to any suspicions of safeguarding concerns.
  • Assist with resident allocations, sign-ups and departures, including preparing void properties for reoccupation.
  • Provide basic welfare support during short-term illness (excluding any nursing or personal care) and respond appropriately in emergencies.
  • Encourage residents to access appropriate health and support services where required.

Estate and Property Management

  • Inspect building, communal areas and grounds to maintain high standards.
  • Report and monitor maintenance issues and liaise with contractors.
  • Support planned maintenance programmes.
  • Monitor emergency call systems and report defects.
  • Carry out health and safety checks.
  • Help ensure the security, cleanliness and presentation of the Almshouse estate.

Administration

  • Maintain accurate resident, property and maintenance records.
  • Support occupancy documentation, correspondence and record keeping.
  • Assist in updating policies, procedures and health and safety documentation.
  • Ensure compliance with data protection legislation and confidentiality requirements.

Health, Safety and Compliance

  • Promote a safe environment for residents, staff and visitors.
  • Carry out routine health and safety checks, including fire alarm testing and fire safety inspections.
  • Report accidents, incidents and safeguarding concerns promptly.
  • Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, regulatory requirements and charity policies.

On-Call Responsibilities

As part of the role, participate in the charity’s out-of-hours on-call rota to provide emergency support for residents and the Almshouse.

Responsibilities include:

  • Respond to emergency alarm activations, urgent resident welfare concerns and out-of-hours incidents.
  • Available to respond to queries/questions direct from our out of hours service.
  • Attend the Almshouse when required to assess and manage emergencies affecting residents, buildings or the estate.
  • Contact emergency services, healthcare professionals, residents’ next of kin or approved contractors where appropriate.
  • Coordinate emergency repairs to ensure the safety and security of residents and the Almshouse.
  • Provide reassurance and practical assistance to residents during emergencies while promoting independence. Personal care and nursing duties are not included within this role.
  • Respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns and health and safety incidents in accordance with the charity’s policies and procedures.
  • Maintain accurate records of all out-of-hours call outs and ensure significant incidents are reported promptly to the Almshouse Manager.

General

  • Deputise for the Almshouse Manager during periods of leave or absence.
  • Represent the charity professionally.
  • Undertake any other duties requested by Almshouse Manager or Trustees.

Person Specification

Essential

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to build positive relationships with older and vulnerable people while maintaining professional boundaries.
  • A team player.
  • Strong organisational and administrative skills.
  • Competent IT skills, including Microsoft Office.
  • Ability to prioritise workload, work independently and make sound decisions.
  • Understanding of confidentiality, safeguarding and data protection.
  • Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle to fulfil on-call responsibilities.

Desirable

  • Previous experience of working within a housing setting.
  • Experience of multi-agency working.
  • Knowledge of the Almshouse sector.
  • Safeguarding training or experience.
  • Experience managing contractors and maintenance services.
  • First Aid qualification or willingness to undertake training.

Personal Qualities

  • Compassionate, approachable and professional.
  • Trustworthy, discreet and able to maintain confidentiality.
  • Calm and resilient under pressure.
  • Practical, proactive and solution focused.
  • Flexible and adaptable.

Terms

The successful candidate will be expected to:

  • Complete mandatory training, including safeguarding, health and safety and emergency procedures.
  • Participate in the charity’s out-of-hours on-call rota.
  • Comply with all charity policies and procedures.
  • Support the charity’s aims and values.
  • Satisfactorily complete a DBS check.

This job description outlines the principal duties and responsibilities of the role and may be reviewed and amended by the Trustees to meet the changing needs of the charity.

Contact Almshouse Manager – BUC almshousemanager@byfleetunitedcharity.org.uk