Placements Officer needed If you're a hard-working, reliable person then we want to hear from you. * Salary: £15 per hour * Location: Bedford, MK42 * Hours: Monday - Friday 8.45am - 5.30pm * Till October 2025 with the possibility of extension JOB PURPOSE: * To facilitate the appropriate placement of Bedford Borough Looked After Children and care leavers through both in-house resources and the commissioning of external provision. * To contribute to achieving positive outcomes for Looked After Children and Care Leavers by identifying quality placements, that are matched and meet the child's assessed needs to ensure they receive the care and support they need to achieve positive outcomes, be resilient and well prepared for adulthood and independence. * To act as a source of factual information to in house foster carers and placement providers informing them of the risks, needs and desired outcomes of the young people requiring placements in order for them to make an informed decision. * To ensure that placements are cost effective through liaison and negotiation with external providers. * To manage a range of placement data systems and to provide management information. * To liaise with other agencies, external providers, and colleagues in relation to the placement of Looked After Children. * To monitor placement budgets, management information and contract negotiations with outside agencies ensuring that commissioned placements offer value for money. * To undertake quality assurance activity as required and in conjunction with commissioning officers to ensure children are receiving good standards of care in placements that safeguard their well-being. * The post holder will work to the service objectives identified by the Fostering Team Manager. Please apply today! Blue Arrow is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and is committed to helping find great work opportunities for great people.