Join Our Family at Foster Care Associates!
Position: Participation Officer (Children & Families - Fostering) - Full-Time (35 Hours)
Location: This role requires regular travel to our regional office in Sheffield, with opportunities to work from home when relevant. You’ll also travel throughout the beautiful regions of Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, East Midlands, and Northamptonshire.
Salary: £23,000 per annum
Why Join Us?
At Foster Care Associates (FCA), we’re more than just a fostering agency; we’re a family. Established in 1994 by a former foster parent and social worker, we are proud to be one of the UK’s largest independent fostering agencies. Our mission is to support every child and foster parent, every minute of the day.
Your Role
This is an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about making a difference in the lives of children. As a Participation Officer, you will be part of a dedicated team delivering our Participation Service. Your responsibilities will include:
* Organizing engaging activities and workshops for children in our care and those who foster.
* Planning memorable family events and outings.
* Building strong relationships with regional colleagues, foster parents, and external professionals.
* Attending meetings with professionals from education, health, and social services to support our children’s care plans.
* Maintaining clear and accurate records.
* Staying updated on professional practice standards, legislation, and company policies, including confidentiality and safeguarding.
* Providing support and guidance to families to promote the stability of foster placements.
What We’re Looking For
We want someone who is not just qualified, but truly passionate about working with children. Here’s what you’ll need:
* Experience working with children and young people, advocating for their voices to be heard.
* Understanding of trauma and its impact on children, with a focus on achieving positive outcomes.
* A relevant qualification or formal training in childcare, education, social work, youth work, community work, or psychology.
* Excellent communication skills to build rapport with children and adults from diverse backgrounds.
* The ability to remain calm under pressure and handle emotionally challenging situations.
* Strong written skills and intermediate IT skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office and databases.
* A full driving license and access to your own vehicle.
* Willingness to undergo an Enhanced DBS check.
What We Offer
At FCA, we believe in supporting our team just as much as we support our children. Here’s what you can expect:
* A company car or a £2,000 car allowance (pro rata).
* 30 days of annual leave (increasing to 35 with length of service) plus bank holidays.
* A comprehensive company pension and life assurance (x2).
* An employee discount scheme and on-site parking.
Join us in our mission to provide children who have faced challenges with the support they need to build a brighter future. At FCA, you’ll find a close-knit network of support that feels like family.
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.