At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct assessments of prospective foster families to ensure the best outcomes for children.
- Company: Join Polaris Community, a leading provider of children's services in the UK.
- Benefits: Earn £2,000 plus expenses, with opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team dedicated to achieving extraordinary outcomes.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable young people every day.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified social worker with relevant assessment experience.
The predicted salary is between 36840 - 40000 £ per year.
Check you match the skill requirements for this role, as well as associated experience, then apply with your CV below.
Salary: £2,000 + Expenses
Location: Multiple locations throughout the UK
Here at Polaris Community, our independent fostering services are committed to providing the very best outcomes for each and every child in our care. Due to expansion, we are seeking to appoint Independent Form F Assessors to provide support to our Fostering teams across the UK.
If you're an empathic and understanding qualified social worker, who can produce high-quality analytic assessment reports and looking for a change then this could be the job for you.
What is the role of a Form F assessor?
Working with independent fostering agencies, like Polaris Community, your role would be to safeguard the outcomes for foster children by carrying out assessments of prospective foster families with whom children and young people will be placed. In order to achieve this, you need to be able to produce and present high-quality, evidence-based, analytical fostering assessments and have a sound knowledge of child care legislation which includes the Children Act 1989, Fostering and Adoption Act 2002, the National Minimum Standards for Fostering Services, and Fostering Services Regulations.
You must also be able to fulfil the following criteria:
- Be a qualified social worker.
- Have significant post-qualification experience in undertaking relevant Foster Parent assessment work.
- Registered with your country's applicable social work council e.g. SWE and SSSC.
- Hold, or be willing to take out professional indemnity insurance.
- Willing to attend a mandatory induction day and training days.
- Have unrestricted access to your own transport and be willing to travel.
- Pass statutory and company checks as part of the assessment process.
- Ideally, have completed and taken to Panel at least one Form F Assessment previously.
Why work with us?
Working at Polaris is more than a career - it's achieving extraordinary things every day. We've built a strong team of over 1,000 talented and ambitious individuals who are dedicated to making a difference to the 3,500 vulnerable young people we care for. As one of the largest providers of children's services, our range of services span the length and breadth of the whole of the UK. Our nurturing community works collectively to support the very best outcomes for each and every child in our care. We're ambitious for our children and young people, families and staff, and believe in their futures. Being part of the Polaris Community will provide the opportunity to work for several of our local and national fostering brands.
We will review your application and get back to you - we aim to meet all candidates within a week of their application.
Form F Assessor in Wandsworth employer: Polaris
Polaris Community is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and collaborative work culture that prioritises the well-being of both staff and the vulnerable children in our care. With opportunities for professional growth and development across multiple locations in the UK, we empower our employees to make a meaningful impact while enjoying competitive salaries and comprehensive support. Join us in our mission to achieve extraordinary outcomes for children and families, and be part of a passionate team that values ambition and compassion.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Form F Assessor in Wandsworth
✨Get Involved in Local Communities
Social work is all about connections and community, so don’t shy away from getting hands-on. Volunteer at local charities or grassroots organisations. This not only boosts your skills but also helps you build a solid network, often leading to freelance opportunities in social work!
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Create a portfolio showcasing case studies and successes from your social work. Use platforms like LinkedIn to share insights about your experiences. The more visible you are in showcasing your expertise, the more likely you are to attract clients who need your services.
✨Tap into Social Work Networks
Join online forums and social media groups specifically for social workers. Websites like The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) have resources and connections tailored for freelancers. Being active in these spaces can lead to referral opportunities and job postings that aren’t advertised elsewhere.
✨Reach Out Directly to Organisations
Don’t wait for job listings – be proactive! Reach out to local charities, schools, and health organisations to pitch your freelance services. Many times, they might not advertise for help, but would love to know you’re available. Plus, applying through our website can give you an edge in visibility!
We think you need these skills to ace Form F Assessor in Wandsworth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Experience in Social Work:When applying for a freelance social work position at Polaris, make sure to highlight any relevant experience you've gained—whether it's through internships, volunteer work, or previous roles. Include specific examples that demonstrate your ability to handle diverse client needs and situations.
Include Your Qualifications and Certificates:Don’t forget to mention any qualifications or certifications relevant to social work, like your degree or specialised training. These can really set you apart from other candidates, especially since social work often requires specific credentials to ensure client safety and well-being.
Present a Strong Portfolio:As a freelancer, it’s great to have a portfolio that showcases your case studies or programme designs. This can help potential clients, like Polaris, see the tangible impact of your work. Include client testimonials where possible to add credibility!
Clarify Your Availability and Rates:When you apply, be upfront about your availability and rates. Since freelance social work can be quite flexible, stating your working hours and what you charge will help Polaris understand how you fit into their needs. It's all about setting the right expectations!
How to prepare for a job interview at Polaris
✨Showcase Your Experience
As a freelancer in social work, it’s crucial to highlight your previous experiences. Share case studies or anecdotes that illustrate your ability to manage diverse client needs. Remember, specific situations where you made a positive impact can really set you apart!
✨Prepare for Ethical Scenarios
Expect questions about ethical dilemmas you’ve faced in your past work. Social work often involves complex situations; be prepared to discuss how you navigated those scenarios and the decisions you made. This will showcase your critical thinking and adherence to ethical standards.
✨Pitch Your Unique Approach
Freelancing means you have a unique selling point. Be ready to explain what makes your approach distinct. Whether it's a specific methodology you adhere to or a particular demographic you focus on, articulating this can convince potential clients of your value.
✨Discuss Your Availability and Rates
In a freelance interview, it’s essential to clearly discuss your availability and how you structure your rates. Be honest about what you can commit to, whether it’s hours, specific projects, or ongoing support. Transparency here builds trust with Polaris from the get-go!
