Supervising Social Worker – Fostering Services

Howard Finley; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 41,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Higher salary for exceptional candidte

Professional development opportunities

Meaningful impact on children's lives

Job summary

Howard Finley in Birmingham is seeking a Supervising Social Worker to join a fostering service based in Birmingham (B37). You will manage a caseload of approved foster carers, provide regular supervision and support, and contribute to foster carer assessments and reviews.

The role requires a recognised social work qualification, SW England registration, and experience with children and families. You will work with local authorities and professionals to ensure high-quality care and safeguarding.

Qualifications

• A recognised social work qualification.
• Current registration with Social Work England.
• Experience working with children, young people and families in a social care setting.
• Knowledge of safeguarding, child protection and care planning.
• Excellent report-writing, recording and time-management skills.
• Ability to manage a caseload effectively and work independently.

Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of approved foster carers, providing regular supervision, guidance and support.
• Liaise with local authorities, placing social workers and other professionals to ensure children's care plans are followed.
• Undertake annual foster carer reviews and present these to fostering panels in line with relevant policies and procedures.
• Participate in the matching process for prospective foster carers and children.
• Undertake Form F assessments of prospective foster carers.
• Support foster carers with day-to-day queries, placement challenges and ongoing development.

Skills

People skills

Case management

Communication

Time management

Education

Social work qualification

Job description

Location: Birmingham, B37

Salary: £45,000 per annum, potentially more for the right candidate

Job Type: Full-time

Sector: Social Care / Fostering Services

About the Role

We are looking for a dedicated and experienced Supervising Social Worker to join a fostering service based in Birmingham (B37).

This is an excellent opportunity for a passionate social worker to make a real difference in the lives of children and young people by supporting foster carers to provide safe, stable and nurturing homes.

The salary starts at £45,000 per annum, with the potential to offer more for the right candidate, depending on experience and suitability.

You will manage a caseload of approved foster carers, provide ongoing supervision and support, contribute to foster carer assessments and annual reviews, and work closely with local authorities and other professionals to ensure children receive high-quality care.

Key Responsibilities

Foster Carer Support and Case Management

• Manage a caseload of approved foster carers, providing regular supervision, guidance and support.
• Liaise with local authorities, placing social workers and other professionals to ensure children's care plans are followed.
• Undertake annual foster carer reviews and present these to fostering panels in line with relevant policies and procedures.
• Participate in the matching process for prospective foster carers and children.
• Undertake competency-based Form F assessments of prospective foster carers.
• Support foster carers with day-to-day queries, placement challenges and ongoing development.
• Assist with fostering recruitment events and promotional activities.

Safeguarding, Quality and Compliance

• Promote the safety, welfare and positive development of children and young people.
• Prepare placement reports and maintain accurate records within agreed timescales.
• Support foster carers in meeting the Training, Support and Development Standards.
• Ensure all records are maintained in line with fostering regulations, data protection legislation and organisational policies.
• Attend supervision sessions, team meetings, staff development days and relevant professional meetings.
• Identify and report safeguarding concerns promptly to the appropriate manager.
• Maintain high standards of professional conduct and practice.

Training and Service Development

• Contribute to the planning and delivery of training for foster carers.
• Participate in foster carer support meetings, workshops and development sessions.
• Contribute to service improvement, operational development and the delivery of high-quality fostering services.
• Maintain your own professional development and keep up to date with relevant legislation, guidance and best practice.
• Build positive working relationships with foster carers, local authorities, social services and partner organisations.

Financial and Administrative Responsibilities

• Follow organisational financial policies and procedures.
• Use resources responsibly and cost-effectively.
• Ensure expenses are authorised and submitted in accordance with company procedures.

About You

The successful candidate will be a committed, child-centred professional with the skills and experience to support foster carers and promote positive outcomes for children.

Essential requirements

• A recognised social work qualification.
• Current registration with Social Work England.
• Experience working with children, young people and families in a relevant social care setting.
• Knowledge of safeguarding, child protection and care planning.
• Strong communication, organisation and relationship-building skills.
• The ability to manage a caseload effectively and work independently as well as within a team.
• Excellent report-writing, recording and time-management skills.
• A commitment to professional development and high standards of practice.
• Previous experience in fostering services and undertaking Form F assessments would be advantageous.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary of £45,000 per annum.
• Potential for a higher salary for an exceptional candidate, depending on experience.
• The opportunity to make a meaningful difference to children and young people's lives.
• Opportunities for ongoing professional development.
• The opportunity to contribute to the development and improvement of fostering services.