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 Regional Office is in Sheffield, with travel expected throughout Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, East Midlands, and Northamptonshire. Enjoy the flexibility of occasional remote work!

Salary: £28,500

Why FCA?

Founded in 1994 by a former foster parent and social worker, Foster Care Associates (FCA) is a leading independent fostering agency and part of the Polaris Community. We pride ourselves on being a family-oriented organization dedicated to supporting every child and foster parent, every minute of the day.

Your Role

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and young people? As our Senior Participation Officer, you will lead a dynamic team to ensure that young voices are at the heart of our services. This is an exciting opportunity to help shape our Participation Strategy and foster a supportive community.

Key Responsibilities:

• 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 the agency's Participation Strategy.
• Supervise two dedicated team members.
• Organize groups, events, and activities specifically for children and young people.
• Actively contribute to the ongoing development of the Participation Service.
• Represent the region in relation to Participation within the Polaris community and with external stakeholders.
• Plan and facilitate engaging 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 with professional practice standards, legislation, and company policies.
• Provide support and guidance to families to promote stable foster placements.

About You

• You have experience working with children and young people, advocating for their voices to be heard.
• While fostering experience is a plus, understanding trauma and helping children achieve positive outcomes is essential.
• You demonstrate passion and aspiration for helping children reach their full potential.
• You have prior experience leading a team or managing projects.
• A relevant qualification in childcare, education, social work, or a related field is ideal.
• Your communication skills are excellent, allowing you to connect with both children and adults.
• You remain calm under pressure and can handle emotionally challenging situations.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and database management is required.
• A full driving license and access to a vehicle are necessary.
• You are willing to undergo an Enhanced DBS check.

What We Offer

• 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.

At FCA, we believe in giving children who have faced challenges the support they need to build a brighter future. Join us in creating a nurturing environment for both our children and foster parents, where everyone feels like family.

Note: FCA 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.