Join Our Team at Foster Care Associates (FCA)
Exciting Opportunity: Supervising Social Worker - ASYE Applications Welcome!
Salary: £29,951.65 per annum
Benefits:
* £2,000 Car Allowance
* 30 days' Annual Leave, increasing to 35 days with length of service + Bank Holidays
* Life Assurance
* Employee Discount Scheme
* Medical Cash Plan (all benefits pro rata)
Location: Hybrid - supporting foster carers across Plymouth and Cornwall
Ofsted Rating: Outstanding - 2026
Are you a newly qualified social worker eager to kickstart your career in fostering? This is your chance to join the passionate team at Foster Care Associates and enhance your professional skills in a nurturing environment!
We recognize the unique challenges and opportunities that come with starting your career. Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way. From day one, you’ll engage in a structured induction program that will introduce you to our processes and best practices.
With mentorship from experienced colleagues, you’ll gain the resources and confidence needed to thrive in your role. Plus, you’ll have access to the CPEL program, delivered in partnership with universities, to further your development.
We value the fresh perspectives and enthusiasm that newly qualified social workers bring, and we encourage you to apply if you’re newly qualified or about to complete your qualification this year!
About Us
Founded in 1994 by a former foster parent and social worker, Foster Care Associates (FCA) is a leading fostering agency and part of the Polaris Community, one of the UK's largest networks of children's service providers.
Our mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of looked-after children. With our roots in the Worcestershire countryside, we have grown significantly while maintaining a strong reputation for excellence in fostering services.
Today, we are proud to be one of the largest independent fostering agencies in the UK, committed to supporting every child and foster parent in our community.
About the Role
As a Supervising Social Worker in our South West team, you will play a vital role in empowering foster carers and young people across Cornwall and Plymouth. Your responsibilities will include:
* Supporting foster carers to achieve outstanding outcomes for children and young people in care.
* Monitoring the suitability and competence of foster carers, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment.
* Providing clear guidance on fostering tasks, competencies, and FCA policies.
* Conducting regular supervision for allocated foster carers in line with FCA's Operational Standards.
* Collaborating with foster families to identify and meet their needs.
* Ensuring compliance with key documentation for each child and foster carer.
* Attending meetings and providing reports for commissioning teams.
* Promoting the participation of children and young people in agency development.
* Participating in an 'out of hours' support service on a rota basis.
* Occasionally conducting initial home visits and Form F Assessments.
You Must Have
* A Social Work qualification.
* Professional registration with Social Work England or equivalent.
* Proven ability to produce high-quality reports.
* Comprehensive knowledge of relevant legislation and child safeguarding procedures.
* Willingness and ability to travel extensively (including occasional nights away).
* Confidence in transporting children and young people in challenging situations.
* A full driving licence.
Foster Care Associates is proud to be an equal opportunities employer and has been recognized as a disability confident employer by Jobcentre Plus. The successful applicant will undergo an enhanced DBS check.
Join us in making a lasting difference in the lives of children and families. We can’t wait to meet you!