Senior Participation Officer (Children & Families - Fostering)

Join Our Family at Foster Care Associates (FCA)

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

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 FCA?

Founded in 1994 by a former foster parent and social worker, Foster Care Associates (FCA) is a leading fostering agency that is part of the Polaris Community. We pride ourselves on being one of the UK's largest and most experienced independent fostering agencies. Here, you’re not just a number; you’re part of a family dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children and foster parents every single day.

Your Role

Are you passionate about empowering children and young people? As our Senior Participation Officer, you will lead a dynamic team to create impactful services that prioritize the voices of young people. This is your chance to make a real difference!

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 our Participation Strategy.
• Supervise and support 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 workshops and activities 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

• 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.
• Your passion for supporting children and young people shines through in everything you do.
• You have prior experience leading teams or projects to ensure effective service delivery.
• A relevant qualification in childcare, education, social work, or a related field is ideal.
• Excellent communication skills allow you to connect with both children and adults effortlessly.
• You remain calm under pressure and can handle emotionally charged situations with grace.
• Strong written and IT skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office and databases, are a must.
• A full driving license and access to a vehicle are required.
• You are willing to undergo an Enhanced DBS check.

What We Offer

At FCA, we believe in supporting our team just as much as we support our children. Enjoy a range of benefits, including:

• 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
• On-site Parking

Foster Care Associates is proud to be an equal opportunities employer and has been recognized as a Disability Confident Employer. If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families, we’d love to hear from you!