Job Description
Join Our Team at Foster Care Associates (FCA)
Position: Senior / Supervising Social Worker
Salary: Up to £39,392.73 per annum, depending on experience
Benefits: Company Car or £2,000 Car Allowance, 30 days' Annual Leave (increasing to 35 days with length of service) + Bank Holidays (pro rata), Life Assurance, Company Pension, On-site Free Parking, Employee Discount Scheme & Medical Cash Plan
Location: Durham
Ofsted Rating: Outstanding
About Us
Founded in 1994 by a passionate former foster parent and social worker, Foster Care Associates (FCA) is a leading fostering agency that is part of the Polaris Community—one of the UK's largest networks of children's service providers.
Our mission is simple yet powerful: to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of looked-after children. From our humble beginnings in the Worcestershire countryside, we have grown into one of the country's most respected independent fostering agencies, while maintaining a strong sense of community and commitment to supporting every child and foster parent.
Your Role
As a Senior / Supervising Social Worker, you will play a vital role in supporting foster carers and their families to achieve outstanding outcomes for children and young people in foster care. Your responsibilities will include:
* Providing support and monitoring the suitability of foster carers to ensure a safe and nurturing environment.
* Ensuring foster carers understand their roles and the standards expected of them.
* Conducting regular supervision in line with FCA's Operational Standards.
* Collaborating with foster families to identify their needs, including respite and therapy.
* Maintaining compliance with all key documentation for children and foster carers.
* Attending meetings and providing reports for commissioning teams.
* Encouraging participation of children and young people in agency development.
* Participating in an 'out of hours' support service on a rota basis.
* Occasionally conducting initial home visits and Form F Assessments.
What We’re Looking For
To thrive in this role, you should have:
* A Social Work qualification.
* Professional registration with Social Work England or equivalent.
* Proven ability to produce high-quality reports.
* A comprehensive understanding of relevant legislation and child safeguarding procedures.
* The willingness and ability to travel extensively, including occasional overnight stays.
* Confidence in transporting children and young people in challenging situations.
* A full driving licence.
Why Join Us?
At FCA, we believe in fostering not just children, but also our team members. We offer a supportive environment where you can grow professionally and personally.
We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and have been recognized as a disability confident employer by Jobcentre Plus.
The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced DBS check. If you’re ready to make a difference, we encourage you to apply and become part of our dedicated team!