Join Our Family at Foster Care Associates (FCA)
Position: Participation Officer (Children & Families - Fostering)
Full-Time: 35 Hours
Location:
As our new Participation Officer, you'll regularly travel to our regional office in Sheffield and throughout the Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, East Midlands, and Northampton areas. Enjoy the flexibility of occasional remote work when applicable!
Compensation:
Basic Salary: £23,000 per annum
Benefits:
* Company Car or £2,000 car allowance (pro rata)
* 30 days of Annual Leave (increasing to 35 with service) + Bank Holidays
* Company Pension
* Life Assurance (x2)
* Employee Discount Scheme
* On-site Parking
About Us
Founded in 1994 by a former foster parent and social worker, Foster Care Associates (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
This is an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about making a difference in the lives of children. As a key member of our small team, you will help deliver our Participation Service.
Key Responsibilities:
* Organize engaging activities and workshops for children in our care and those who foster.
* Plan family events and fun days out.
* Build strong relationships with regional colleagues, Foster Parents, and external professionals.
* Attend meetings with professionals from Education, Health, and Social Services to support our Children and Young People's care plans.
* Maintain clear and accurate records.
* Stay updated on professional practice standards, legislation, and company policies, including confidentiality, GDPR, safeguarding, and inclusion.
* Provide support and guidance to families, promoting the stability of foster placements.
About You
* 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 is preferred.
* Excellent communication skills, with the ability to connect with children and adults from diverse backgrounds.
* Ability to remain calm in high-pressure or emotionally charged situations.
* Strong written skills and intermediate IT proficiency (Microsoft Office and databases).
* A full driving license and access to your own vehicle.
* Willingness to undergo an Enhanced DBS check.
Why Join FCA?
At FCA, we are united by a shared vision: to provide children who have faced challenges with the support they need to build a brighter future. Our Foster Parents benefit from a supportive network 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.