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? Do you want to lead a dynamic team dedicated to fostering positive change? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you!
Position: Senior Participation Officer (Children & Families - Fostering)
Location: Our Regional Office is based in Sheffield, with travel expected throughout Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, East Midlands, and Northamptonshire. Enjoy the flexibility of occasional remote work!
Basic Salary: £28,500
Why Join Us?
At Foster Care Associates (FCA), we believe in the power of community. Established in 1994 by a former foster parent and social worker, we are one of the UK's largest independent fostering agencies. We pride ourselves on being a family-oriented organization, dedicated to supporting every child and foster parent every minute of the day.
Your Role and Responsibilities
As our Senior Participation Officer, you will:
- Lead and manage a team to create strong consultation systems with foster children, foster carers, and their birth children.
- Develop and implement our agency's Participation Strategy in collaboration with the Registered Manager and regional management team.
- Supervise two dedicated staff 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 the Polaris community and with external stakeholders.
- Arrange 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 care plans.
- Maintain clear records and complete reports.
- Stay updated on professional practice standards, legislation, and company policies.
- Provide guidance to families to promote stability in foster placements.
What We’re Looking For
To thrive in this role, you should have:
- Experience working with children and young people, advocating for their voices to be heard.
- A passion for helping children reach their full potential, especially those who have experienced trauma.
- 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.
- 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.
What We Offer
At FCA, we value our team members and offer a range of benefits, including:
- A 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.
- A company pension and life assurance (x2).
- An 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, you’ll find a close-knit network of support that feels like family.
We are an equal opportunities employer and have been recognized as a Disability Confident Employer by Jobcentre Plus. If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact, we’d love to hear from you!
