Join Our Team as a Fostering Engagement Officer!
Contract: Full-Time - Permanent
Location: Bromsgrove
Salary: Up to £24,000 depending on experience
Why Choose Us?
At Polaris, we are proud to be one of the UK's leading communities of children's service providers. With over 30 years of experience, we are dedicated to improving the lives of young people through our independent fostering and adoption agencies, as well as our education, residential, and bespoke children's services. Our nurturing community is committed to achieving the best outcomes for every child in our care, and we believe in the potential of our children, families, and staff.
What We Are Looking For
Are you a highly motivated individual with a passion for making a difference? We are seeking a Fostering Engagement Officer to join our established Enquiries Team. In this pivotal role, you will be the first point of contact for individuals interested in becoming foster carers, guiding them through their initial steps in the process.
You'll need a friendly and confident telephone manner, along with the enthusiasm to connect with individuals through calls and live chat. Your excellent verbal communication skills will help you stay calm and professional under pressure, allowing you to listen attentively and build strong relationships.
Your Role Responsibilities
* Respond to all enquiries while building rapport with potential foster carers.
* Make proactive outbound contact via phone calls, emails, and texts to engage applicants.
* Conduct initial screening calls and highlight applicants' transferable skills.
* Guide applicants through the benefits of fostering with the Polaris Group.
* Provide further information and respond to queries promptly.
* Build strong, trusting relationships through empathetic and supportive communication.
* Navigate sensitive topics and challenging conversations with professionalism and care.
* Promote virtual information events and monitor attendance.
* Maintain accurate and up-to-date records on the CRM system.
* Complete daily administrative tasks to support the enquiries and recruitment team.
* Multi-task and prioritize workload effectively in a fast-paced environment.
* Work flexibly to meet business needs, including one evening per week.
What You Bring
* Prior knowledge of fostering and the fostering sector is advantageous.
* Experience in a customer service environment is a plus.
Working Conditions & Benefits
We offer a supportive work environment with:
* 30 days' Annual Leave (rising to 35 days with length of service) + Bank Holidays
* Company Pension
* Life Assurance
* Employee Discount Scheme
* Free On-Site Parking
At Polaris, we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. We expect all staff to share this commitment. Please note that the successful applicant will be subject to a DBS check.
Join us in making a difference in the lives of children and families. We can't wait to meet you!