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- Tasks: Lead and support therapeutic foster carers, providing trauma-informed supervision and professional guidance.
- Company: Join Portsmouth City Council, dedicated to making a positive impact in children's lives.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive work environment, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for mentoring and service development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with complex needs while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Recognised Social Work qualification and experience in children and families social work required.
The predicted salary is between 37000 - 44000 ÂŁ per year.
We are seeking an Advanced Social Worker to join our Therapeutic Fostering Hub, a specialist service supporting children with complex emotional, behavioural and trauma‑related needs. This is a key practice leadership role, providing high‑level professional oversight, reflective supervision and support to Specialist Therapeutic Foster Carers. The hub operates a trauma‑informed model, with foster carers supported by a dedicated team around the foster home, including a Child Psychologist and Family Support Workers.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide reflective, trauma‑informed supervision and professional support to Therapeutic Foster Carers
- Work closely with a Child Psychologist to support formulation‑based care and therapeutic parenting approaches
- Support carer resilience, retention and placement stability, including planning for short breaks and de‑escalation
- Lead and support matching, transitions and step‑across planning, including bridging placements
- Provide professional oversight of safeguarding, risk and standards of care within the hub
- Chair or contribute to stability meetings and multi‑agency forums
- Maintain high‑quality recording, analysis and decision‑making
- Contribute to practice leadership, mentoring and workforce development
- Support training delivery for carers and staff and contribute to service development and evaluation
- Provide out‑of‑hours advice and support to hub carers in line with service arrangements
The ideal candidate
You will be an experienced and confident practitioner with a strong commitment to trauma‑informed, relationship‑based practice and improving outcomes for children we care for.
Essential requirements:
- A recognised Social Work qualification (Degree, Diploma or equivalent)
- Registration with Social Work England
- Significant experience in children and families social work, particularly fostering, placements or children we care for
- Strong understanding of trauma, attachment and therapeutic approaches
- Ability to provide reflective supervision and demonstrate sound professional judgement
- Strong knowledge of relevant legislation and statutory frameworks
- Commitment to continuous professional development
- Will have a Full UK driving licence or evidence that you are taking lessons
Desirable requirements:
- Experience of therapeutic fostering or specialist placement support
- Experience working in multidisciplinary models with psychological or clinical input
- Experience of service development and outcomes reporting
Working Arrangements:
You will be required to work 3-5 days in the office each week.
Safeguarding
Portsmouth City Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and young people, and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Every post is subject to PCC and Portsmouth Safeguarding Children Partnership safer recruitment procedures. Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) at Standard/Enhanced level will be required prior to any offer of employment and this post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.
Advanced Social Worker, Therapeutic Fostering - Portsmouth employer: Portsmouth City Council
Contact Detail:
Portsmouth City Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Advanced Social Worker, Therapeutic Fostering - Portsmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the social care field, especially those who work in fostering or therapeutic roles. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to trauma-informed care and reflective supervision. We recommend role-playing with a friend or using online resources to boost your confidence and articulate your experience effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for improving outcomes for children during interviews. Share specific examples from your past experiences that highlight your commitment to trauma-informed practices and how you've made a difference in children's lives.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the latest opportunities tailored to your skills and interests right there.
We think you need these skills to ace Advanced Social Worker, Therapeutic Fostering - Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Profile Carefully: Before you start your application, make sure to download and read the full job profile. Pay special attention to the 'Who is the Person' section, as this will guide you in crafting your personal statement.
Craft a Strong Personal Statement: Your personal statement is your chance to shine! Use it to demonstrate how your experience aligns with the job requirements. Be specific and provide examples that showcase your skills and qualifications.
Showcase Your Commitment to Values: Portsmouth City Council values respect, integrity, collaboration, inclusivity, and being people-focused. Make sure to reflect these values in your application, showing how you embody them in your work.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application is received and considered by the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at Portsmouth City Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in trauma-informed care and the specific needs of children in fostering. Brush up on relevant legislation and frameworks, as these will likely come up during your interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your past experiences in social work, especially those related to fostering and therapeutic approaches. Use specific examples that highlight your skills in reflective supervision and professional judgement.
✨Align with Their Values
Portsmouth City Council values respect, integrity, collaboration, and inclusivity. Think about how your personal values align with theirs and be ready to share examples that demonstrate this alignment during your interview.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Have a few insightful questions ready to ask at the end of your interview. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute to the team and the children’s wellbeing.