Placement Administration Officer ( Part-Time)

Contract Type: Part-time, 3 days with the view for the role to become full time after a successful probation period. Hybrid (Head Office-based flexibility)

Reporting to: Registered Manager

About Avanti Fostering

Avanti Fostering is a well-established Independent Fostering Agency, rated Good by Ofsted. We are committed to providing high-quality care and support for children and young people. As we continue to grow, we are seeking a dedicated Placement Administration Officer to support the efficient coordination of foster placements and contribute to the overall success of the agency.

Purpose of the Role

The Placement Administration Officer will be responsible for managing the referral and placement process, supporting placement planning, and providing administrative support to the Registered Manager. This role plays a vital part in ensuring children are matched appropriately with foster parents while maintaining high standards of regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• A. Placement Coordination
  • Receive and triage incoming Local Authority referrals, conducting initial screening and timely responses.
  • Distribute invitations, consultation forms, and reports; follow up to ensure responses are received.
  • Facilitate collaborative matching processes, negotiations, and placement arrangements.
  • Manage referral and placement data within the system, including setup, updates, and closures.
  • Liaise effectively with Supervising Social Workers (SSWs) to ensure accurate documentation is uploaded promptly.
  • Develop and maintain strong working relationships with Local Authorities.
  • Contribute to identifying new business and revenue opportunities.
  • Support stability of placements and assist in resolving issues where needed.
  • Ensure full compliance with Ofsted standards, fostering regulations, and national minimum standards.
  • Flag any safeguarding concerns promptly to enable appropriate managerial support.
  • Collaborate with Local Authorities to meet children’s educational, health, and wellbeing needs.
  • Coordinate with the Marketing Officer to maintain up-to-date promotional materials including vacancy lists and brochures.
  • Attend internal and external meetings as required.
• B. Administrative Duties
  • Manage statutory checks and references, including liaison with applicants, Form F Assessors, and Local Authorities.
  • Compile comprehensive placement meeting packs for SSWs and ensure system records are current and accurate.
  • Prepare orientation packs for newly approved foster parents and welcome packs for placed children.
  • Maintain and update reference libraries and administrative records.
  • Upload and extract key data from documents (e.g., child monthly reports, Local Authority paperwork) and ensure correct categorisation within the system.
  • Allocation of training to Foster Parents.
• C. General Responsibilities
  • Uphold strict confidentiality and comply with data protection regulations.
  • Proactively engage in training and development opportunities to enhance professional growth.
  • Attend Panel meetings occasionally on Saturdays as a Minute Taker (adjusted hours offered accordingly).
  • Adapt to evolving operational needs and perform additional tasks as required by the line manager.

Essential Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree or equivalent relevant qualification.
• Minimum of 1 year’s experience in placement and/or administrative roles (fostering experience desirable).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and administrative systems.
• Valid UK Driving Licence (desirable).

Skills and Competencies

• Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Adaptable and responsive to change.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in record-keeping.
• Technologically proficient and self-motivated.
• Resilient and able to thrive in a growing and dynamic organisation.
• Committed to upholding professional standards, confidentiality, and the agency’s Code of Conduct.

Remuneration and Benefits

• Salary: £28,000 pro rata
• Benefits Include:
• Company laptop and mobile phone
• Personal and professional development with in-house training
• Company pension scheme
• Retail discounts
• Staff social events

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Stanmore HA7 1DY

Contact: dilber@avantifostering.co.uk