Participation Officer (Children & Families - Fostering)

Join Our Family at Foster Care Associates (FCA)

Position: Participation Officer (Children & Families - Fostering)

Full-Time: 35 Hours

Location: This role requires regular travel to our regional office in Sheffield, with opportunities to work throughout Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, East Midlands, and Northamptonshire. Enjoy some flexibility with the option to work from home when appropriate!

Compensation & Benefits

Basic Salary: £23,542.56 per annum

Benefits Include:

• 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 and Life Assurance (x2)
• 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

This is an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about making a difference in the lives of children. As a Participation Officer, you will be a vital part of a small team delivering our Participation Service.

Your Key Responsibilities:

• Organize engaging activities and workshops for children in our care and those who foster.
• Plan memorable family events and outings.
• Build strong relationships with regional colleagues, Foster Parents, and external professionals.
• Attend meetings with professionals from Education, Health, and Social Services to support care plans for our children and young people.
• Maintain clear and accurate records.
• Stay updated on professional practice standards, legislation, and company policies, including confidentiality, GDPR, safeguarding, and diversity.
• Provide support and guidance to families, promoting the stability of foster placements.

About You

We are looking for someone who:

• Has experience working with children and young people, advocating for their voices to be heard.
• Understands the challenges faced by children who have experienced trauma and can help them achieve positive outcomes.
• Possesses a relevant qualification or formal training in childcare, education, social work, youth work, community work, or psychology.
• Has excellent communication skills and can build rapport with children and adults from diverse backgrounds.
• Can remain calm in high-pressure situations and manage difficult behaviors effectively.
• Is proficient in written communication and has intermediate IT skills, including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and databases.
• Holds a full driving license and has access to a vehicle.
• Is willing to undergo an Enhanced DBS check.

Why Join FCA?

At FCA, we are part of the Polaris group, a family of independent fostering agencies united by a shared vision: to provide children who have faced challenges with the support they need to build a brighter future. We also offer our Foster Parents a close-knit network of support that feels like family.

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.