Participation Officer (Children & Families - Fostering)

Join Our Team as a Participation Officer!

Location: Sheffield (with travel across Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, East Midlands, and Northamptonshire)

Hours: Full-Time, 35 Hours per week

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and families? At Foster Care Associates (FCA), we’re looking for a dedicated Participation Officer to join our vibrant team. Founded in 1994 by a former foster parent and social worker, FCA is one of the UK's largest independent fostering agencies, and we pride ourselves on being a supportive family for both children and foster parents.

Your Role and Responsibilities

As a Participation Officer, you will play a crucial role in our agency's Participation Service. Your responsibilities will include:

• Organizing engaging activities and workshops for children in our care and those who foster.
• Planning family events and exciting days out.
• Building strong relationships with regional colleagues, foster parents, and external professionals.
• Attending meetings with professionals from education, health, and social services to support our children’s care plans.
• Maintaining clear and accurate records.
• Staying updated on professional practice standards, legislation, and company policies, including confidentiality and safeguarding.
• Providing support and guidance to families to promote the stability of foster placements.

What We’re Looking For

We want someone who is not only qualified but also genuinely cares about children and their well-being. Ideally, you will have:

• Experience working with children and young people, advocating for their voices to be heard.
• Understanding of the challenges faced by children who have experienced trauma.
• A relevant qualification or formal training in childcare, education, social work, youth work, or psychology.
• Excellent communication skills to build rapport with children and adults from diverse backgrounds.
• The ability to remain calm in high-pressure situations.
• Good written skills and intermediate IT skills, including Microsoft Office.
• A full driving license and access to your own vehicle.
• Willingness to undergo an Enhanced DBS check.

Why Join Us?

At FCA, we believe in supporting our team just as much as we support our children. Here’s what we offer:

• 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 and Life Assurance (x2)
  • Employee Discount Scheme
  • On-site Parking

Join us in our mission to provide children with the support they need to build a brighter future. If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact, we’d love to hear from you!

Foster Care Associates is an equal opportunities employer and has been awarded the Disability Confident Employer status by Jobcentre Plus.