Join Our Family at Foster Care Associates (FCA)
Position: Senior Participation Officer (Children & Families - Fostering)
Location: Our vibrant Regional Office is located in Sheffield, with travel opportunities across Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, East Midlands, and Northamptonshire. Enjoy the flexibility of occasional remote work when applicable!
Basic Salary: £28,500
Why FCA?
Founded in 1994 by a former foster parent and social worker, Foster Care Associates (FCA) is a leading independent fostering agency and part of the Polaris Community. We pride ourselves on being a close-knit family dedicated to supporting every child and foster parent, every minute of the day.
Your Role
Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and young people? As our Senior Participation Officer, you will lead a dynamic team to ensure that young voices are at the heart of our services. This is your chance to inspire change and foster community engagement!
Key Responsibilities:
* Lead and manage a team to establish strong consultation systems with foster children, foster carers, and their birth children.
* Collaborate with the Registered Manager to develop and implement the agency's Participation Strategy.
* Supervise and support two dedicated team members.
* Organize engaging groups, events, and activities specifically for children and young people.
* Actively contribute to the ongoing development of the Participation Service.
* Represent the region in relation to Participation within the Polaris community and with external stakeholders.
* Plan and facilitate workshops and activities for children in our care.
* Build strong relationships with colleagues, foster parents, and multi-agency networks.
* Attend meetings with professionals from Education, Health, and Social Services to support care plans.
* Maintain clear records and complete reports.
* Stay updated on professional practice standards, legislation, and company policies.
* Provide guidance to families to promote the stability of foster placements.
About You
* You have experience working with children and young people, advocating for their voices to be heard.
* While fostering experience is a plus, understanding trauma and helping children achieve positive outcomes is essential.
* Your passion for supporting children and young people shines through in your work.
* You have prior experience leading teams or projects to ensure effective service delivery.
* A relevant qualification in childcare, education, social work, or a related field is ideal.
* Excellent communication skills enable you to connect with both children and adults.
* You remain calm under pressure and can handle emotionally charged situations with grace.
* Proficiency in Microsoft Office and database management is required.
* A full driving license and access to a vehicle are essential.
* You are willing to undergo an Enhanced DBS check.
What We Offer
* Company Car or £2,000 car allowance (pro rata).
* 30 days of Annual Leave (increasing to 35 with service) + Bank Holidays.
* Company Pension and Life Assurance (x2).
* Employee Discount Scheme and On-site Parking.
At FCA, we are committed to giving children who have faced challenges the support they need to build a brighter future. Join us in creating a nurturing environment for our foster parents and children alike!
Foster Care Associates is an equal opportunities employer and has been awarded the Disability Confident Employer status by Jobcentre Plus. The successful applicant will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check.