Back to search
Actively participating in a range of foster carer recruitment activities across the Reading area through-out the year. o If requested undertake initial visits to prospective foster carer applicants and complete associated case recording. o Undertaking assessments of foster carers and supported lodgings carers
(2-3 per year dependent on need), completing the associated reports within the expected timescales and to a high standard (using the Form F format) and presenting them to our IFA Fostering Panel for consideration of approval. o In parallel with undertaking assessments of new foster care applicants, completing assessments of any associated 'back-up' carers.
Working with our IFA Assistant Team Manager and our Manager Carer Recruitment & Retention in order to enable the IFA to provide a comprehensive programme of pre and post approval training for our foster carers, including directly participating in the running of Skills to Foster training and a range of post-approval training to BFfC's foster carers. o On a rota basis, facilitating support groups for our IFA approved foster carers and their children (Foster Squad), and attending carer retention activities/events.
Attending 2x yearly social/celebration events held for our in-house foster carers and 2x yearly social/celebration events held to mark the achievements of Brighter Futures for Children's Children Looked After and Care Leavers. * To provide professional supervision to a case load of 13 - 15 approved BFfC foster carers, including carers who offer short and/or long-term/permanent placements and those who offer respite placements; promoting the safe care and development of looked after children/young people in order for them to achieve their full potential in terms of their physical, social, emotional and educational needs. This will on occasions include providing appropriate challenge to our carers. * To maintain up-to-date case recording on carers' files and other records in line with the fostering regulations, practice standards and BFfC's policies and procedures, and to ensure that the recording of carer supervision visits is shared with the carer(s) in line with the IFA's policy
Qualifications & Education Essential:
* Professional Social Work qualification (CQSW, CSW, DipSW, BA, MA or equivalent)
* Social Work England registration.
* Appropriate Post Qualifying Moderated Training e.g., PQ Level 1 or 2 / Consolidation or Specialist / Practice Teacher of Enabling Learning or equivalent is desirable.
* Up-to-date knowledge and understanding of current childcare legislation, regulations, and statutory guidance.
* Up-to-date knowledge of Fostering legislation, regulations, National Minimum Standards and best practice guidance, relevant to providing the full range of fostering services delivered through Brighter Futures for Children's Independent Fostering Agency.
* Understanding of the assessment process for foster carers.
* Computer literate with good keyboard skills.
