Supervising Social Worker - Fostering

Join Our Team as a Supervising Social Worker - Fostering!

Are you ready to make a real difference in the lives of children and families? At the Integrated Services Programme (ISP), we’re looking for a passionate and dedicated Supervising Social Worker to join our team in Ashurst, Southampton. With a competitive salary of up to £39,500 per annum and a full-time, permanent contract, this is your chance to be part of something truly special!

About Us

Founded in 1987 by a group of devoted foster parents, ISP is proud to be the UK’s first independent foster care agency. With over 30 years of experience, we’ve built a strong foundation of support for looked-after children, especially those who have faced challenging beginnings. Our Integrated Service Programme focuses on placing the child at the heart of everything we do, surrounded by a network of professionals ready to help.

Our team includes social workers, fostering advisors, teachers, and therapists, all working collaboratively to support foster parents and the children they care for. We pioneered a therapeutic approach to fostering, ensuring that every child receives the specialized support they need.

Your Responsibilities

• Provide direct support to foster parents, managing a realistic caseload that allows for meaningful supervision.
• Conduct regular supervision sessions with allocated foster parents, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
• Collaborate with children, young people, foster parents, and other professionals to facilitate participation in assessments, planning, and decision-making related to safeguarding and child protection.

What We’re Looking For

• A qualified and experienced Social Worker or Senior Social Worker with a passion for fostering.
• A collaborative mindset, appreciating the vital role of foster parents and their skills.
• Experience working alongside foster parents as professional colleagues within a multi-disciplinary environment.
• A full driving licence and unrestricted access to your own car.
• Strong report writing skills and the ability to meet strict deadlines.
• A comprehensive understanding of relevant legislation and publications related to children’s services.

Working Conditions

This is a demanding yet rewarding position that includes both quality assurance and training roles for prospective and current foster parents. You will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check, which will be covered by ISP.

Why Join ISP?

• Competitive Salary: Up to £39,500 per annum.
• Car Allowance: £3,000 to support your travel needs.
• Generous Leave: 30 days of annual leave, increasing to 35 with length of service, plus bank holidays.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Company pension, life assurance (x2), employee discount scheme, and a medical cash plan.

At ISP, we are an equal opportunities employer and actively encourage applications from qualified candidates. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults, and we expect all staff to share this commitment.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your career and make a lasting impact, we’d love to hear from you!