Senior Participation Officer (Children & Families - Fostering)

Join Our Family at Foster Care Associates!

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and young people? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you! We are looking for a Senior Participation Officer to join our dedicated team at Foster Care Associates (FCA) in Sheffield.

About Us

Founded in 1994 by a former foster parent and social worker, FCA is one of the UK's largest independent fostering agencies. We pride ourselves on being a close-knit family, committed to supporting every child and foster parent every minute of the day. Join us in our mission to provide a brighter future for children who have faced challenges in their lives.

Your Role

As a Senior Participation Officer, you will lead a dynamic team dedicated to ensuring that the voices of children and families are heard. Your responsibilities will include:

• Leading and managing a team to establish strong consultation systems with foster children, foster carers, and their birth children.
• Collaborating with the Registered Manager to develop the agency's Participation Strategy.
• Supervising two team members and leading groups, events, and activities for children and young people.
• Representing the region in relation to Participation within the Polaris community and with external stakeholders.
• Arranging engaging activities and workshops for children in our care and those who foster.
• Building productive relationships with colleagues, foster parents, and multi-agency networks.
• Completing reports and maintaining clear records while staying updated on professional standards and legislation.
• Providing support and guidance to families to promote the stability of foster placements.

What We’re Looking For

We want someone who shares our passion for helping children reach their full potential. Ideally, you will have:

• Experience working with children and young people, advocating for their voices to be heard.
• A background in fostering is not essential, but understanding trauma and its impact on children is beneficial.
• Previous experience in leading a team or managing projects.
• A relevant qualification in childcare, social work, education, or a related field.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to connect with both children and adults.
• The ability to remain calm under pressure and handle emotionally challenging situations.
• Strong written and IT skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office and databases.
• A full driving license and access to a vehicle.
• A willingness to undergo an Enhanced DBS check.

Working Conditions

This is a full-time position based in our Sheffield office, with travel expected throughout the Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, East Midlands, and Northampton regions. There will also be opportunities to work from home when relevant.

What We Offer

At FCA, we value our team members and offer a competitive salary of £28,500, along with a range of benefits:

• 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.

If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact and be part of a supportive community, we’d love to hear from you! Join us in giving children the brighter future they deserve.

Foster Care Associates is an equal opportunities employer and has been awarded the Disability Confident Employer status by Jobcentre Plus.