Job Title: Children's Placement Officer
Location: Walsall
Hours: 37 per week, full-time
Working Structure: Hybrid - 2 days in office / remainder working from home
Pay Rate: £16.89 per hour (PAYE) / £22.16 per hour (Umbrella)
Requirement: Enhanced DBS (desirable)
Key Duties & Responsibilities
* Source and identify appropriate foster homes, residential placements, and supported accommodation for children aged 0-17.
* Ensure all providers meet required quality standards, including valid Ofsted/CQC registration, and that all documentation is up to date and compliant.
* Negotiate fees with providers to achieve best value while maintaining high-quality care and services.
* Prepare and complete contracts in line with current frameworks, ensuring accurate recording of all placement searches.
* Collaborate closely with Children's Social Care Teams, including Commissioning (Adults and Children), Emergency Duty Team, Fostering, and external providers.
* Respond promptly in urgent situations, supporting teams who may be awaiting immediate placement solutions.
Skills & Experience
* In-depth knowledge of children's social care processes and placement requirements.
* Strong negotiation skills, balancing cost efficiency with service quality.
* Excellent communication skills, with the ability to remain calm, professional, and solution-focused under pressure.
* High attention to detail, particularly in compliance and quality assurance checks.
* Proven ability to work collaboratively within a small, dedicated team.
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