Participation Officer (Children & Families - Fostering)
Join Our Family at Foster Care Associates (FCA)
Position: Participation Officer (Children & Families - Fostering)
Type: Full-Time (35 Hours)
Location: Regular travel to our regional office in Sheffield, with opportunities to work from home. Expect travel throughout Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, East Midlands, and Northamptonshire.
Compensation:
Basic Salary: £23,542.56 per annum
Benefits:
- Company Car or £2,000 car allowance (pro rata)
- 30 days of Annual Leave (increasing to 35 with length of service) + Bank Holidays
- Company Pension
- Life Assurance (2x salary)
- Employee Discount Scheme
- On-site Parking
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. 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? As a Participation Officer, you will play a vital role in our agency's Participation Service. Join a small, dedicated team and help us create meaningful experiences for children in our care.
Key Responsibilities:
- Organize engaging activities and workshops for children and foster families.
- Plan family events and exciting days out.
- Build strong relationships with regional colleagues, foster parents, and external professionals.
- Attend meetings with education, health, and social services professionals to support care plans.
- Maintain clear and accurate records.
- Stay updated on professional standards, legislation, and company policies, including confidentiality and safeguarding.
- Provide guidance and support to foster families to promote stability in placements.
About You
We’re looking for someone who embodies compassion and dedication. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Experience working with children and young people, advocating for their voices.
- Understanding of trauma and its impact on children, with a focus on achieving positive outcomes.
- A relevant qualification or formal training in childcare, education, social work, or related fields.
- Excellent communication skills to connect with children and adults from diverse backgrounds.
- Ability to remain calm in high-pressure situations.
- Strong written skills and intermediate IT proficiency (Microsoft Office and databases).
- A full driving license and access to your own vehicle.
- Willingness to undergo an Enhanced DBS check.
Why Join FCA?
At FCA, we believe in providing children who have faced challenges with the support they need to build a brighter future. Our foster parents become part of a close-knit network that feels like family. If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact, we want to hear from you!
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.
