Shape Futures. Empower Young People. Lead with Purpose.

Can you inspire a team while helping young people build brighter futures?

Christchurch House is a 37-bedroom supported housing service in Ipswich, providing accommodation and personalised support for young people aged 18-24 experiencing homelessness. We are looking for an exceptional Service Manager to lead the service, support our talented team, and help young people take positive steps towards independence.

This is a rewarding leadership opportunity for someone who brings warmth, empathy and determination, along with the ability to create a positive culture where young people and colleagues can achieve their full potential.

What you’ll be doing:

You’ll lead all aspects of service delivery, ensuring young people receive high-quality, person-centred support that builds confidence, resilience and independence.

Your responsibilities will include:

- Inspiring, developing and empowering a dedicated support team.
- Creating a safe, inclusive and supportive environment for vulnerable young people.
- Promoting excellent safeguarding and risk management practices.
- Working collaboratively with local authorities, education providers, health services and community partners.
- Driving continuous improvement and delivering outstanding outcomes for customers.
- Ensuring the service operates effectively, efficiently and in line with organisational values.

About you

You’ll be an experienced people-focused leader who has:

- Experience managing teams within homelessness, housing, supported living or related services.
- A strong understanding of safeguarding,



risk management and supporting vulnerable individuals.
- Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills.
- A collaborative leadership style that motivates and develops others.
- The ability to remain calm, decisive and solution-focused in a fast-paced environment.

Most importantly, you’ll understand that great leadership starts with empathy, respect and a genuine belief in people’s potential.

More benefits of joining #TeamOrwell:

When you join Orwell, you become part of a values-driven team that puts people first and you’ll also have access to a variety of benefits that help you feel appreciated and able to thrive, such as:

- 22 days annual leave (pro rata) plus bank holidays (Please note that bank-holiday work may be required as part of this role).
- Reward and recognition awards.
- Free DBS checks.
- Cashback Health plan.
- Access to Blue Light Card – membership fees apply.
- Ongoing training and development & opportunities to progress in your role through the Orwell Academy

Person Specification...

- GCSE Maths and English (Grade 9-4 / A-C or equivalent)
- Leadership qualification or willingness to gain a qualification in the Orwell Academy.
- A full driving licence is desirable

Closing date for applications: 6 September 2026





Interview date: 11th September

Before applying…

Orwell is committed to safeguarding and safer employment and the principles of empowerment.

Please note Orwell Housing Association does not provide visa sponsorship. You must be eligible to work in the UK to apply. You will be required to provide the relevant right to work documentation if successfully appointed to the role.

This post is subject to an Enhanced DBS check with Children's Barred List. All new arrivals to the UK must also provide a Statement of Good Conduct (SOGC).

The definition of current arrival is an applicant who has worked or been resident overseas in the previous five years and this includes citizens of the UK who have worked or lived overseas for a continuous period of six months or more.

Orwell is proud to be a Disability Confident Leader. We believe in creating an accessible and supportive setting, where every team member can thrive and contribute. Join us in our commitment to building a workplace that celebrates diversity and empowers all individuals to reach their full potential. We actively welcome applications from candidates with disabilities and are dedicated to making reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process to ensure equal access and opportunity for all.

We know that diverse teams drive innovation and deliver better outcomes. Research shows that people from under-defined ...

We are committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected and supported to succeed.

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📌 SERVICE MANAGER (Ipswich)
🏢 Orwell Housing Association
📍 Ipswich