Admissions Manager
Salary: £40,000
Contract Type: Permanent
Location: Sunderland
Hours: 37.5
Job role
Ideal Candidate
About Us
Education and Services for People with Autism Ltd (ESPA) is a leading UK Charity with a strong commitment to specialist education, residential services, and lifelong support tailored to individual needs.
Our mission is to empower autistic individuals to achieve their full potential, promoting independence, wellbeing, and meaningful participation in society. Through our highly skilled teams and supportive environments, ESPA delivers high-quality services that make a real and lasting difference to the lives of those we support and their families.
Joining ESPA means becoming part of a compassionate, values-driven organisation where your work has genuine impact. We foster a culture of respect, inclusion, and continuous development, ensuring both the people we support and our staff can thrive.
About the Role
We are looking for a passionate and experienced Admissions Manager to join our established Charity, supporting a diverse range of services including:
· Specialist SEND education
· Residential care
· Supported living
· Domiciliary care
· Day services
· Social Hub
This is a pivotal role where you will lead the start to finish admissions process, ensuring individuals—particularly those with autism, learning disabilities, and complex needs—are placed in the right environment to thrive.
What You’ll Be Doing
· Managing all referrals and enquiries across our services
· Leading person-centred assessments to ensure the right placement fit
· Working closely with Local Authorities, commissioners, families, and professionals
· Coordinating admissions for:
o Specialist SEND provision (EHCP-led placements)
o Residential and supported living services
o Domiciliary care packages
o Day and social hub activities
· Ensuring services meet the needs of individuals with autism and complex support requirements
· Supporting smooth transitions and positive outcomes for individuals
About You
We’re looking for someone who is:
Experienced in admissions, referrals, or service coordination in health, social care, or SEND education Knowledgeable in autism, learning disabilities, and complex needs Confident working with EHCP processes, CQC/Ofsted frameworks, and safeguarding A strong communicator who can build relationships with internal and external stakeholders Highly organised, with the ability to manage a varied and complex caseload Passionate about delivering person-centred, high-quality care and education
Desirable Experience
· Experience in supported living or specialist SEND settings
· Qualification in health, social care, education, or related field
· Autism-specific training (e.g., Autism Awareness, PBS)
· Background working with multidisciplinary teams
Why Join Us?
Make a real difference in people’s lives Be part of a values-driven, person-centred organisation Work across a diverse and rewarding service portfolio Opportunities for professional development and progression
Additional Information
· Enhanced DBS check required
· Some travel between services may be needed
Closing: 10/07/2026
Downloads:
![ESPA student and ESPA staff member painting the Andy Warhol version of Marilyn Monroe. [CNS]](https://espa.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Art-2-247x300.jpg)