Independent Fostering Assessor

North East Combined Authority; Tees Valley; On-site; GBP 1,665 - 2,035; Full time

Job summary

North East Combined Authority is seeking Independent Fostering Assessors to join our pool for robust, therapeutic fostering assessments.

Successful candidates will be trained to complete assessments reflecting our care model and will present findings to panel as needed. Must hold Social Work qualification and be registered with Social Work England; closing date 17 August 2026.

Qualifications

• Must hold a Social Work qualification and be registered with Social Work England.
• Excellent written and verbal communication with looked-after children.
• Ability to analyse information and present it clearly for panel.

Responsibilities

• Complete fostering assessments in line with the agency's therapeutic model.
• Attend panel and present the foster assessment.
• Report safeguarding concerns per agency policies and processes.
• Collaborate with agency colleagues to identify current needs of children and carers.

Skills

Communication skills

Listening skills

Analytical ability

Report writing

Education

Social Work qualification

Job description

Independent Fostering Assessor

£1850 per Assessment

Are you a social work practitioner who wants to make a difference to children and young people by bringing out the best in others who want to foster children.

We are interested in hearing from Independent Social Workers with track record of completing thorough, robust and effective fostering assessments to join our pool of independent assessors to assist us as we grow our small therapeutic, not for profit Fostering Agency.

You would be trained to complete our fostering assessment which reflects the therapeutic model of care provided by our foster families, and then complete the assessment with prospective foster families.

Closing Date: 17th August 2026.

Job description

• Have a clear understanding of relevant childcare legislation including that pertinent to the fostering task.
• Have a good working knowledge of the impact of loss and trauma on looked after children and young people.
• Have a clear understanding of therapeutic parenting and work with the agency to understand their training and working models of support.
• Have excellent written and oral skills that will support the completion of a fostering assessment to present to panel.
• Be able to critically analyse information provided and cross reference it with knowledge of looked after children.
• To be able to address issues with applicants and agency colleagues that are difficult in a fair and proportionate manner.
• Be able to report safeguarding concerns in a timely and effective manner in line with the agencies policies and processes.
• To be available to attend panel and present the complete or part completed assessment.
• To work closely with agency colleagues to understand the current needs of children and young people referred to Changing Futures Fostering.
• To address diversity issues and promote anti-discriminatory practice.
• Be an active part of supervision and address areas discussed within agreed timescales.
• To inform Changing Futures Fostering at once if they have been charged, cautioned or convicted for any criminal offence or if any criminal proceedings are pending.

Person specification

• You will have a Social Work qualification and be registered with Social Work England.

Knowledge

• A level of understanding of the purpose & function Changing Futures Fostering
• An appreciation and understanding of the effect of separation and loss on children.
• To have knowledge of Fostering, interest in child in care and be committed to promoting the best interests of vulnerable children.

Abilities

• Excellent listening and communication skills
• The ability to establish a good working relationship with potential foster parents to bring out the best in them.
• A proven ability to collate high levels of information and use your social work skills to analyse the information and demonstrate its relevance to the fostering task.
• To have a clear understanding of the impact of life events and how they impact on children and adults.
• Have excellent written skills in order to complete a rich and detailed assessment report relevant to the task.
• To demonstrate a clear understanding of valuing diversity, and how to avoid or address discrimination on the grounds of sex, race, religion, culture, sexuality or age.

Attitudes

• A value base that understands diversity in relation to issues of ethnicity, religion, gender, disability and sexuality.
• An understanding of, and a commitment to, the need for confidentiality and how to report any concerns.
• A willingness to work with agency colleagues to gain understanding and gain knowledge in the working practices of the agency and how it upholds standards.
• A willingness to contribute constructively to Assessor training sessions and workshops