Senior Participation Officer (Children & Families - Fostering)
27 days ago
Dronfield
\n Join Our Family at Foster Care Associates (FCA)\n Position: Senior Participation Officer (Children & Families - Fostering)\n 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 when applicable! \n Basic Salary: £28,500 \n \n Why Work With Us?\n Founded in 1994 by a former foster parent and social worker, 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 close-knit family dedicated to supporting every child and foster parent, every minute of the day. \n\n Your Role and Responsibilities\n Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and young people? As our Senior Participation Officer, you will lead a dynamic team to ensure that young voices are at the heart of our services. Here’s what you’ll be doing: \n \n • Lead and manage a team to establish strong consultation systems with foster children, foster carers, and their birth children.\n, • Collaborate with the Registered Manager and regional management to develop our Participation Strategy.\n, • Supervise and support two dedicated team members.\n, • Organize engaging groups, events, and activities specifically for children and young people.\n, • Actively contribute to the ongoing development of the Participation Service.\n, • Represent our region in Participation matters within the Polaris community and with external stakeholders.\n, • Plan and facilitate workshops and activities for children in our care and those who foster.\n, • Build strong relationships with colleagues, foster parents, and multi-agency networks.\n, • Attend meetings with professionals from Education, Health, and Social Services to support our children’s care plans.\n, • Maintain clear records and complete reports.\n, • Stay updated on professional practice standards, legislation, and company policies.\n, • Experience working with children and young people, advocating for their voices to be heard.\n, • While fostering experience is a plus, understanding trauma and helping children achieve positive outcomes is essential.\n, • Previous experience in leading a team or managing projects.\n, • A relevant qualification or formal training in childcare, education, social work, youth work, community work, or psychology is ideal.\n, • Excellent communication skills to connect with both children and adults.\n, • The ability to remain calm under pressure and handle challenging situations with grace.\n, • Strong written and IT skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office and databases.\n, • A full driving license and access to a vehicle.\n, • Company Car or a £2,000 car allowance (pro rata).\n, • 30 days of Annual Leave (increasing to 35 with length of service) plus Bank Holidays.\n, • Company Pension and Life Assurance (x2).\n