Main Purpose of Job
In addition to the usual responsibilities assumed with the role of Social Worker, the Senior Social Worker will also offer additional support to the Senior Leadership Team in terms of quality assurance and leading projects, as well as acting up to Manager in the absence of the Registered Manager. The role is primarily responsible for assessing and supporting Foster Care services from current and prospective F5 Foster Carers. The Senior Social Worker will provide a high-quality and effective Social Work service to respond to the needs of children, young people, and families in a timely manner and within statutory guidelines, policies, and standards. This position works as part of a team responsible for the placement of children and young people and supervision of our Foster Carers.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Additional and Acting Up Responsibilities
Support the Registered Fostering Manager with quality assurance of documents, including but not limited to PFCRs, annual reviews, forms and letters, and policy and procedures. Lead internal projects as requested by the Registered Fostering Manager and/or other senior leaders, such as Foster Carer Support Groups. Step up into the role of Manager in the absence of the Registered Fostering Manager, making decisions about placements/recruitment, supervising staff members, and managing safeguarding concerns. Assist in the growth and mentoring of other Social Workers working with F5 Foster Care, whether employed or associate-based. Take first-line enquiries from Social Workers seeking further guidance or clarification. Responsible for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children at all times.
Assessment and Support of Foster Carers
Produce comprehensive, professional assessments of prospective Foster Carers using BAAF Form F and the competency model. Prepare and present well-written comprehensive reports for various forums. Deliver presentations, assessments, reports, and annual reviews to the foster panel within agreed timescales. Participate in and deliver training sessions for Foster Carers’ initial and post-approval training, including Skills to Foster. Support approved Foster Carers through regular visits, telephone calls, attendance at children’s reviews, planning meetings, and liaising with the child’s Social Worker. Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records of ongoing support and supervision of Foster Carers, recording significant occurrences or incidents in line with current legislation and F5 Foster Care guidelines. Participate in staff training delivered by F5 Foster Care or external trainers as required. Attend and participate in team meetings as required. Prepare for and attend placement planning meetings, looked after children meetings, and other professional forums. Prepare for and attend matching meetings with other professional agencies. Professionally represent F5 Foster Care in various professional gatherings. Attend and contribute to your supervision and appraisal process. Contribute to the maintenance and development of effective communication systems within the family placement service. Maintain all records in accordance with company policy, regulations, and statutory requirements. Respect the need for absolute confidentiality regarding all duties and information obtained. Undertake any other reasonable duties as required by the Registered Manager. Work in a safe manner, ensuring the health and safety of yourself, children, and other staff members.
Skills, Knowledge, Experience, Attitudes and Behaviours
Able to satisfy Ofsted as a Social Worker (Fostering Services Regulations 2011). Possess DipSW Certificate of Qualification in Social Work or BA/MA in Social Work (or equivalent) with HCPC registration. Experience acting as Manager, Team Leader, or Senior Practitioner in a fostering environment. Experience supporting Foster Carers pre, during, and post-approval while working within assessment frameworks. Experience providing placement support. Knowledge of Ofsted, National Minimum Standards for Fostering Services, and Fostering Services Regulations. Excellent communication and administrative skills. Able to maintain judgement under pressure. Proven ability to plan and prioritise workloads. Ability to communicate clearly and appropriately at all levels, both orally and in writing. Ability to provide reports on a monthly/yearly basis.
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Support the Registered Fostering Manager with quality assurance of documents, including but not limited to PFCRs, annual reviews, forms and letters, and policy and procedures. Lead internal projects as requested by the Registered Fostering Manager and/or other senior leaders, such as Foster Carer Support Groups. Step up into the role of Manager in the absence of the Registered Fostering Manager, making decisions about placements/recruitment, supervising staff members, and managing safeguarding concerns. Assist in the growth and mentoring of other Social Workers working with F5 Foster Care, whether employed or associate-based. Take first-line enquiries from Social Workers seeking further guidance or clarification. Responsible for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children at all times.
Assessment and Support of Foster Carers
Produce comprehensive, professional assessments of prospective Foster Carers using BAAF Form F and the competency model. Prepare and present well-written comprehensive reports for various forums. Deliver presentations, assessments, reports, and annual reviews to the foster panel within agreed timescales. Participate in and deliver training sessions for Foster Carers’ initial and post-approval training, including Skills to Foster. Support approved Foster Carers through regular visits, telephone calls, attendance at children’s reviews, planning meetings, and liaising with the child’s Social Worker. Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records of ongoing support and supervision of Foster Carers, recording significant occurrences or incidents in line with current legislation and F5 Foster Care guidelines. Participate in staff training delivered by F5 Foster Care or external trainers as required. Attend and participate in team meetings as required. Prepare for and attend placement planning meetings, looked after children meetings, and other professional forums. Prepare for and attend matching meetings with other professional agencies. Professionally represent F5 Foster Care in various professional gatherings. Attend and contribute to your supervision and appraisal process. Contribute to the maintenance and development of effective communication systems within the family placement service. Maintain all records in accordance with company policy, regulations, and statutory requirements. Respect the need for absolute confidentiality regarding all duties and information obtained. Undertake any other reasonable duties as required by the Registered Manager. Work in a safe manner, ensuring the health and safety of yourself, children, and other staff members.
Skills, Knowledge, Experience, Attitudes and Behaviours
Able to satisfy Ofsted as a Social Worker (Fostering Services Regulations 2011). Possess DipSW Certificate of Qualification in Social Work or BA/MA in Social Work (or equivalent) with HCPC registration. Experience acting as Manager, Team Leader, or Senior Practitioner in a fostering environment. Experience supporting Foster Carers pre, during, and post-approval while working within assessment frameworks. Experience providing placement support. Knowledge of Ofsted, National Minimum Standards for Fostering Services, and Fostering Services Regulations. Excellent communication and administrative skills. Able to maintain judgement under pressure. Proven ability to plan and prioritise workloads. Ability to communicate clearly and appropriately at all levels, both orally and in writing. Ability to provide reports on a monthly/yearly basis.
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