At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead reviews for foster carers and ensure their support needs are met.
- Company: Join Plymouth City Council, dedicated to improving the lives of children and young people.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours and a supportive environment focused on your development.
- Other info: Part-time role with potential for additional hours; guaranteed interviews for eligible candidates.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in fostering while working in a diverse and inclusive team.
- Qualifications: Five years of social work experience required; confidence in chairing meetings is essential.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 β¬ per year.
N288 - Fostering Reviewing & Training Officer - Role Profile
Plymouth Childrenβs Services are looking for a Fostering Reviewing & Training Officer who will help make a difference in the lives of the children and young people we work with. Children are at the heart of everything we do and our restorative relationship-based practice helps us to make positive and lasting changes in their lives and the lives of their families.
The successful candidate will be responsible for chairing household reviews for foster carers and making recommendations about the suitability of foster carers including identifying areas of support. The Fostering IRO will also provide advice, guidance, and consultation to all staff on Fostering Regulations and National Minimum Standards to support the development of the Fostering Service to ensure we are delivering high quality support to all foster carers. Creating a culture of safe working practice to ensure Foster Carers adhere to safeguarding and health and safety responsibilities.
If you would like to become part of a team who work collaboratively with children and young people to help shape our service and influence practice, this team is for you. We are looking for potential or current Independent Chairs who strive to make sure that the voice of the child and their families is central in all work undertaken, as well as ensuring safe, timely and individual needs led plans are in place for children.
You will be part of an experienced team that is dedicated and committed to achieving good outcomes for children and providing an inclusive service. Staff development, wellbeing and work life balance is also a key focus for the management team who provide a supportive, nurturing and learning environment.
We are looking for social workers with at least five years post qualification experience, ideally with team manager and/or Advanced Practitioner experience, working within the child protection and child in care arena. You will need to be confident in chairing meetings and working with partner agencies. Most of all, you will need to be aspirational for all of the children and young people you work with.
We are a flexible employer and provide a variety of working arrangements tailored to the needs of each role
Registration with Social Work England is a requirement and successful candidates will be subject to an enhanced Children & Adults barred list check by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
This role is for 15 hours per week. Applications are welcome for this role and the opportunity to secure an additional 22 hours for the role of independent chair CS/3781 β totalling 37 hours. This will entail just one interview for those that apply for both posts.
If this is of interest to you, please submit applications for both CS3781 and CS3787.
For more information or an informal discussion, please contact Anna Russell - Service Manager, on 01752305962.
Closing date:- Sunday 27th July 2025
Interview Date β Tuesday 5th August 2025
Plymouth City Council is an equal opportunities employer. All applicants will be considered for employment regardless of age, care experience, disability, gender reassignment, marriage/civil partnership, pregnancy/maternity, race, religion/belief, sex or sexual orientation.
As part of our commitment to promoting equality we offer guaranteed interviews to those who meet the essential criteria and are considered disabled, care experienced or are an Armed Forces Service Leaver within the last two years.
CS/3787 - Fostering Reviewing & Training Officer in Plymouth employer: PLYMOUTH CITY COUNCIL
Plymouth City Council is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for its staff. With a strong focus on employee development and wellbeing, the council offers flexible working arrangements and opportunities for growth within the social care sector. Joining our team means making a meaningful impact in the lives of children and young people while being part of a diverse and committed workforce.
StudySmarter Expert Adviceπ€«
We think this is how you could land CS/3787 - Fostering Reviewing & Training Officer in Plymouth
β¨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Fostering Regulations and Standards. Understanding these guidelines will not only help you in your role but also demonstrate your commitment to high-quality support for foster carers during interviews.
β¨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in child protection and fostering. Attend relevant workshops or seminars to connect with others in the field, which can provide insights and potentially lead to recommendations for your application.
β¨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in chairing meetings confidently. Think of specific examples where you've successfully led discussions or made critical decisions, as this will be a key aspect of the role.
β¨Tip Number 4
Consider applying for the related CS3781 position as well. This shows your enthusiasm for working with Plymouth City Council and increases your chances of landing a role that suits your skills and experience.
We think you need these skills to ace CS/3787 - Fostering Reviewing & Training Officer in Plymouth
Some tips for your application π«‘
Understand the Role:Read the job description thoroughly to understand the key responsibilities and candidate profile. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience in fostering, social work, and team management.
Highlight Relevant Experience:In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your five years of post-qualification social work experience. Include specific examples of your work with foster carers, child protection, and any experience in chairing meetings.
Showcase Your Skills:Demonstrate your confidence in chairing meetings and working with partner agencies. Mention any training or qualifications that support your ability to provide guidance on Fostering Regulations and Standards.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at PLYMOUTH CITY COUNCIL
β¨Understand the Role Thoroughly
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Familiarise yourself with fostering regulations and standards, as well as the specific duties of a Fostering Reviewing & Training Officer. This will help you answer questions confidently and demonstrate your commitment to the role.
β¨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to be asked about real-life scenarios related to fostering and child protection. Think of examples from your past experience where you've successfully managed similar situations. This will showcase your problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure.
β¨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As this role involves chairing meetings and working with various stakeholders, it's crucial to demonstrate your communication abilities. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, and be prepared to discuss how you would handle difficult conversations with foster carers or partner agencies.
β¨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, take the opportunity to ask thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, support available for foster carers, or the council's approach to safeguarding. This not only shows your interest in the position but also helps you assess if the organisation aligns with your values.