Fostering Registered Manager in Portsmouth

Who are Fair Ways and what do we stand for? At Fair Ways we believe in making a difference through passionate care, support and education. Together we aim to build an institution that makes a difference to society and leaves a legacy greater than ourselves and our contributions. Our values sit at the heart of everything we do; we measure our wealth by the difference we make, rather than the profit we make. Fair Ways is a leading children’s services charity based in the Solent, delivering Fostering, Education, Residential and Family services and cares for over 400 children, families, young people and vulnerable adults each year.

Fair Ways have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Registered Manager to join our fantastic fostering team. In this role you will ensure that a minimum Ofsted grading of Good is maintained at all times through the provision of quality care, within which the health, welfare, education and development of the children is promoted ensuring that foster carers, children and young people are offered the highest quality of support.

Responsibilities

• Managerial and Regulatory Responsibility: To fulfil the requirements of the ‘Registered Manager’ role as set out in the Fostering Regulations, National Minimum Standards and safeguarding requirements and to adhere to Fair Ways Policies and Procedures to ensure the highest quality of care is delivered to those we care for.
• Leadership and Supervision: To provide strong leadership and high-quality supervision to your direct reports and conduct appraisals in line with the organisational appraisal process promoting a positive culture, professional standards, and effective teamwork ensuring a secure, skilled and supported workforce.
• Supporting and retaining Foster Carers: Design, implement, and oversee tailored care packages and support for foster carers that young people receive a service that is tailored to their needs. Develop strategies to maximise foster carer retention, supporting foster carers and embedding a culture where they are valued and listened to, ensuring stability and continuity of care for those we support.
• Budget Management: To ensure that the service is sustainable, budgets and targets are met and that the service is appropriately resourced at all times. To lead on the development, implementation and continued review of strategic and operational plans, policies and procedures for the ongoing delivery and development of provision in line with the charity’s organisational planning and strategic growth.
• Occupancy and Matching: To apply professional judgment and appropriate assessment of risk deciding on the appropriateness of placements and referrals, supporting the stability of foster placements, working proactively to ensure that children are afforded opportunities and experiences that will allow them to thrive.
• Keeping vulnerable children and young people safe: To oversee safeguarding within the team and take immediate management action when the welfare or safety of children is at risk, including partnership working with local multi-agency partners, ensuring an open culture in which children feel that they can raise issues and complaints and that they will be listened to.
• Multi-Agency Working: Actively participate in management meetings, uphold organisational values, and demonstrate commitment to professional development and reflective practice. To ensure collaborative working through attendance at relevant meetings and using open communication to ensure best practice with safeguarding and quality & compliance matters at all times, whilst fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Being a Trauma Informed professional: To provide trauma informed responses through the individualised use of therapeutic intervention to ensure our children and young people are supported appropriately during times of crisis.

This role is offered at 37.5 hours per week. All candidates must have a full driving license and have access to the use of a car. Successful candidates will be required to provide an enhanced Disclosure (DBS). This disclosure cost will be met by Fair Ways. Fair Ways are unable to provide VISA sponsorship for this role and all applicants will need to be able to provide evidence of right to work in the UK. This role requires being part of the charities out of hours ‘on call’ rota providing comprehensive management support (additional on-call payment of £3,000 per annum).

You and your specialisms Required

• Hold a recognised social work qualification (e.g., DipSW, CQSW, or equivalent) and be registered with Social Work England.
• Proven experience in managing fostering services or similar social care settings, including staff supervision and performance management.
• In-depth understanding of Fostering Regulations, National Minimum Standards, Ofsted requirements, and safeguarding legislation.
• Ability to lead service development, manage budgets, and ensure compliance with organisational and statutory requirements.

Let us look after you!

• Exciting Opportunities: Participate in free staff lotteries with amazing prizes, such as £1000 holiday vouchers, weekends away, luxury hampers, £1000 fostering referral scheme and vouchers. Experience a workplace that celebrates your contributions.
• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a Holiday Accrual Scheme, an extra day of annual leave as a ‘wellbeing day’ and the option to purchase additional holidays (up to 5 days). We value your time and offer flexibility to accommodate your existing commitments.
• Health and Support: Benefit from Simply Health, our health cash plan, and access to our Employee Assistance Scheme, providing emergency financial assistance and 24/7 counselling services. Access your salary when you need it with Early Pay – The ability to withdraw an amount of your salary early each month to assist with any unforeseen circumstances.
• Growth and Development: Unlock your potential with our Education Grant, offering funding for accreditation up to master’s level. Engage in leadership courses to enhance your skills and progress in your career.
• Wellbeing Matters: Experience team-building days, summer festivals, and well-being initiatives, promoting a positive work environment. Take advantage of discounted gym memberships and a cycle-to-work scheme to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
• Recognition and Rewards: Be appreciated for your dedication through annual Staff Awards and Long Service Awards. Build a secure future with our pension scheme and gain eligibility for a Blue Light Card.
• Supportive Community: Be part of our diverse workforce that embraces all communities. We value your unique perspective and encourage you to contribute to our inclusive and vibrant culture. Benefits may differ dependant on contract type.

Become a part of our community – We can’t wait to meet you! If you’re passionate about making a difference and are ready to embark on an incredible journey, apply today and be a part of something amazing at Fair Ways. Join our team and help shape brighter futures!