Lead Social Worker - Fostering

Job Title: Supervising Social Worker - Fostering

Base Location: South London - Cheam

Salary: Up to £39,500 per annum

Contract: Full Time

About Us

Founded in 1987 by a dedicated group of foster parents, we are proud to be the UK's first independent foster care agency. With over 30 years of experience, we continue to provide exceptional support to looked after children, especially those who have faced challenging beginnings.

Our Integrated Services Programme (ISP) places the child at the heart of our mission, offering a comprehensive range of support services. Our team includes social workers, fostering advisors, teachers, and therapists, all working collaboratively with foster parents to navigate even the most complex situations through a therapeutic approach to fostering.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct support to foster parents within a manageable caseload to ensure high-quality supervision.
• Conduct regular supervision sessions with allocated foster parents, monitoring their practice and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
• Collaborate with children, young people, foster parents, and other professionals to facilitate participation in assessment, planning, review, and decision-making related to safeguarding and child protection.

Requirements

• Hold a Social Care England recognized qualification in Social Work or equivalent.
• Previous experience in children and families social work.
• Comprehensive knowledge of relevant legislation pertaining to children's services.
• Full driving license with unrestricted access to your own car.

Working Conditions

This is a demanding role that includes quality assurance and training responsibilities for both prospective and current foster parents. The successful candidate will be an excellent report writer and able to meet strict deadlines. An enhanced DBS check will be required, with costs covered by the organization.

Benefits

• £3,000 Car Allowance
• 30 days' annual leave, increasing to 35 days with length of service + bank holidays
• Company Pension
• Life Assurance x2
• Employee Discount Scheme
• Medical Cash Plan

Opportunities for Growth

We are committed to fostering a supportive environment that encourages professional development and growth. Join us in making a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families.

We are an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from suitably qualified candidates. Our organization is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults, and we expect all staff to share this commitment.