Skills and Expectations of a Registered Manager

What is a Registered Manager?

A Registered Manager is the dedicated manager for a care service, who is responsible for ensuring the delivery of high-quality care. Whether in a care home, supported living, or community-based setting, this leadership position is crucial for maintaining excellent standards and compliance with regulations. They hold a great deal of responsibility within this role and are held legally accountable for their service’s compliance.

What Does a Registered Manager Do?

Registered Managers oversee the daily operations of a care service, balancing staff management with administrative duties. Key responsibilities include:

• Managing teams to ensure safe, effective care.
• Handling budgets and overseeing financial decisions.
• Making strategic decisions to improve and expand the service.
• Compliance with legal standards, including Care Quality Commission (CQC) registration.

What Skills does a Registered Manager need?

To succeed in this role, the following skills and attributes are vital:

1. Leadership and Motivation
       Strong leadership abilities are essential, enabling you to guide and support your care team. The ability to motivate staff and foster a positive working environment is key to the smooth running of care services.

2. Strategic Thinking
       Registered Managers must think beyond daily operations. This includes planning for the future, improving services, and leading specific projects, such as opening new care facilities.

3. Empathy and Compassion
       A commitment to high-quality care is at the heart of the role. Empathy helps managers understand residents’ needs, ensuring compassionate care is always prioritised.

4. Problem-solving
       The role often involves dealing with complex care requirements and unexpected challenges. Strong problem-solving skills and a flexible approach are essential for managing these situations.

5. Organisational Skills
       Time management and organisational abilities are critical to managing the demands of both staff and service users effectively. The role also involves overseeing long-term strategies and day-to-day tasks simultaneously.

6. Financial Acumen
       Registered Managers take responsibility for overseeing a service’s budget, ensuring financial sustainability. Experience in budgeting and financial planning helps ensure resources are managed efficiently.

What Qualifications and Training does a Registered Manager need?

To become a Registered Manager, you typically need:

• A Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care, which can be undertaken while working in the role.
• Additional training programmes like the Lead to Succeed programme or Manager Induction Standards to enhance managerial skills.

Many Registered Managers start their career in entry-level care roles, progressing through leadership positions with the right training and experience. If you have the drive, empathy, and organisational skills, this role offers a fulfilling and long-term career in the care sector.