Our client is seeking a dedicated Service Manager to lead a specialist crisis support service in Sunderland. This is a rewarding opportunity to join an established organisation delivering high-quality, person-centred support to individuals with complex needs, helping them navigate periods of crisis and move towards greater stability, independence, and improved quality of life.

This role would suit an experienced leader from a complex care, autism, learning disability, forensic, residential care, or crisis intervention background who is confident managing risk, leading teams, and driving exceptional standards of care.

The Role

• Lead the day-to-day delivery of a specialist crisis support service.
• Oversee assessments, support planning, risk management, and crisis interventions.
• Promote Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), trauma-informed practice, and person-centred approaches.
• Recruit, develop, supervise, and inspire a high-performing team.
• Build effective relationships with families, professionals, commissioners, and partner agencies.
• Ensure safeguarding, compliance, quality assurance, and service standards are consistently maintained.
• Monitor service performance and drive continuous improvement.
• Create an environment that promotes dignity, respect, independence, and positive outcomes.

About You

• Previous management experience within complex care, learning disabilities, autism, forensic services, residential care, or crisis intervention.
• Strong understanding of safeguarding, Positive Behaviour Support, risk management, and least restrictive practice.
• Experience supporting individuals who present complex behaviours or significant support needs.
• Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop teams.
• Excellent communication, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
• Calm, resilient, and able to perform effectively in challenging situations.
• A relevant management qualification, or willingness to work towards one.
• Full UK driving licence desirable.

What’s On Offer?

• Opportunity to lead a highly specialised and impactful service.
• Genuine progression opportunities as the organisation continues to grow.
• Ongoing professional development and training.
• Supportive and collaborative senior leadership team.
• The chance to make a meaningful difference to the lives of individuals and families across the region.
• A rewarding role where no two days are the same.

If you’re an experienced care leader looking for your next challenge and want to be part of a service that delivers life-changing support, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today for a confidential discussion.