Join Our Team at Foster Care Associates (FCA)
Exciting Opportunity: Supervising Social Worker - ASYE Applications Welcome
Salary: £31,151.65 per annum
Benefits:
* £2,000 Car Allowance
* 30 days' Annual Leave, increasing to 35 days with length of service + Bank Holidays
* Life Assurance
* Employee Discount Scheme
* Medical Cash Plan (all benefits pro rata)
Location: Hybrid - supporting foster carers across Plymouth and Cornwall
Ofsted Rating: Outstanding - 2026
Are you a newly qualified social worker eager to kickstart your career in fostering? This is your chance to join the dynamic team at Foster Care Associates, where you can grow your professional skills in a nurturing environment.
We recognize the unique challenges and opportunities that come with starting your career. Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way. From day one, you’ll engage in a structured induction program that will introduce you to our processes and best practices.
With the guidance of experienced colleagues, you’ll receive mentorship that empowers you to thrive in your role. Plus, you’ll have access to the CPEL program, delivered in partnership with universities, to further enhance your development.
We value the fresh perspectives and enthusiasm that newly qualified social workers bring, and we encourage you to apply if you’re newly qualified or about to complete your qualification this year.
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.
Our mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of looked-after children. From our humble beginnings in Worcestershire, we have grown significantly, building a strong reputation for excellence and offering a wide range of services to children and families.
Today, we are proud to be one of the largest and most experienced independent fostering agencies in the country, maintaining a strong sense of community and commitment to supporting every child and foster parent.
About the Role
As a Supervising Social Worker in our South West team, you will play a vital role in supporting and empowering foster carers and young people across Cornwall and Plymouth. Your responsibilities will include:
* Supporting foster carers and their families to achieve outstanding outcomes for children and young people in foster care.
* Monitoring the suitability and competence of foster carers, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment.
* Ensuring foster carers understand their roles, competencies, and the standards expected of them.
* Providing regular supervision to allocated foster carers in line with FCA's Operational Standards.
* Collaborating with foster families to identify and meet their needs, including respite and activities.
* Ensuring compliance with all key documentation for each child and foster carer.
* Attending meetings and providing reports for commissioning teams regarding individual care packages.
* Promoting the participation of children and young people in agency development and local opportunities.
* Participating in an 'out of hours' support service on a rota basis.
* Conducting occasional initial home visits and Form F Assessments.
You Must 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.
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.
Join us in making a lasting difference in the lives of children and families. We can’t wait to meet you!