Senior Participation Officer (Children & Families - Fostering)

Join Our Family at Foster Care Associates (FCA)

Position: Senior Participation Officer (Children & Families - Fostering) - Full Time

Location: Our vibrant Regional Office is located in Sheffield, with travel opportunities throughout Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, East Midlands, and Northamptonshire. Enjoy the flexibility of occasional remote work!

Basic Salary: £28,500

Why Work With Us?

At FCA, we believe in the power of community and the importance of every child's voice. Founded in 1994 by a former foster parent and social worker, we are proud to be one of the UK's largest independent fostering agencies. Here, you won't just be an employee; you'll be part of a family dedicated to making a real difference in the lives of children and foster parents.

Your Role & Responsibilities

Are you passionate about empowering children and young people? This is your chance to lead a dynamic team and create impactful services that prioritize young voices. Here’s what you’ll be doing:

• Lead and manage a team to establish strong consultation systems with foster children, foster carers, and their birth children.
• Collaborate with the Registered Manager and regional management to develop our Participation Strategy.
• Supervise two dedicated team 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 Participation matters within the Polaris community and with external stakeholders.
• Plan and facilitate activities and workshops for children in our care.
• 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 support and guidance to families to promote stable foster placements.

About You

We’re looking for someone who shares our passion for helping children thrive. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Experience working with children and young people, advocating for their voices.
• While fostering experience is a plus, understanding trauma and helping children achieve positive outcomes is essential.
• Aspirational and passionate about helping children reach their full potential.
• Previous experience leading a team or managing projects.
• A relevant qualification in childcare, education, social work, youth work, community work, or psychology is ideal.
• Excellent communication skills to connect with both children and adults.
• Ability to remain calm in high-pressure situations and manage difficult behaviors.
• Strong written and IT skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office and databases.
• A full driving license and access to a vehicle.
• Willingness to undergo an Enhanced DBS check.

What We Offer

At FCA, we value our team members and offer a range of benefits to support your well-being:

• Company Car or £2,000 car allowance (pro rata).
• 30 days of Annual Leave (increasing to 35 with service) + Bank Holidays.
• Company Pension and Life Assurance (x2).
• 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.

FCA is an equal opportunities employer and has been awarded the Disability Confident Employer status by Jobcentre Plus. Successful applicants will undergo an Enhanced DBS check.