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 throughout Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, East Midlands, and Northamptonshire. Enjoy the flexibility of occasional remote work when applicable!
Basic Salary: £28,500
Why Work With Us?
Founded in 1994 by a former foster parent and social worker, FCA is a leading fostering agency and part of the Polaris Community, one of the UK's largest networks of children's service providers. We pride ourselves on being a close-knit family dedicated to supporting every child and foster parent, every minute of the day.
Your Role and Responsibilities
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. Here’s what you’ll be doing:
* Lead and manage a team to establish strong consultation systems with foster children, foster carers, and their birth children.
* Collaborate with the Registered Manager and regional management to develop our 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 our region in Participation matters within the Polaris community and with external stakeholders.
* Plan and facilitate workshops and activities for children in our care and those who foster.
* Build strong relationships with colleagues, foster parents, and multi-agency networks.
* Attend meetings with professionals from Education, Health, and Social Services to support our children’s 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
We’re looking for someone who embodies passion and aspiration for our children and young people. Here’s what you’ll need:
* 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.
* Previous experience in leading a team or managing projects.
* A relevant qualification or formal training in childcare, education, social work, youth work, community work, or psychology is ideal.
* Excellent communication skills to connect with both children and adults.
* The ability to remain calm under pressure and handle challenging situations with grace.
* Strong written and IT skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office and databases.
* A full driving license and access to a vehicle.
* Willingness to undergo an Enhanced DBS check.
What We Offer
At FCA, we believe in nurturing talent and providing a supportive environment. Here’s what you can expect:
* 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.
* Company Pension and Life Assurance (x2).
* 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, we’re not just colleagues; we’re 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.