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- Tasks: Manage referrals and match children with foster families to meet their needs.
- Company: Foster Care Associates, a leading fostering agency dedicated to making a positive impact.
- Benefits: Generous holiday allowance, pension, life assurance, employee discounts, and free parking.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working in a supportive community.
- Qualifications: Experience in children's services and strong administrative skills preferred.
- Other info: Full training provided; opportunity for personal growth in a dynamic environment.
The predicted salary is between 22630 - 22630 £ per year.
Foster Care Associates (FCA) is an established fostering agency which forms part of the Polaris Community, one of the UK's largest leading communities of children's service providers. The business was born out of an enthusiasm for delivering fostering services to make a positive difference to the lives of looked-after children.
As a Referrals Officer, you will manage referrals received from Local Authorities and use key information and matching criteria to ensure that placements are carefully matched according to children's needs. You will work independently, using your initiative to create thoughtful, person-centred solutions that ensure every foster placement meets the needs of each child and family.
The Referrals Officer role is the first point of contact between Local Authorities, foster families and Social Workers. You will build strong, positive relationships with colleagues and communicate confidently with professionals at all levels. Experience of working within the children's services sector or a similar environment would be beneficial.
Roles & Responsibilities
- Actively promote foster parent vacancies by communicating with Local Authorities via telephone and email
- Build and maintain strong working relationships with Local Authorities
- Ensure systems are kept up to date and accurate at all times
- Work to tight deadlines
- Use company performance data to ensure foster parents are supported with their vacancies and to support business growth
- Complete foster parent pay processes (full training provided)
- Liaise with the Referral Hub to offer cover and support where needed
- Ensure the line manager is kept up to date on referrals, matching and any issues in relation to vacancies
- Attend regular meetings and assist with minute taking
To find out more about this opportunity, feel free to reach out to Tracey Harris, our Referrals Manager. To be considered, simply send us your application.
Foster Care Associates is an equal opportunities employer and has been awarded the disability confident employer by Jobcentre Plus. The successful applicant will be subject to a DBS check at enhanced level if successful for the position.
Referrals Officer in Croydon employer: The FCA
Contact Detail:
The FCA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Referrals Officer in Croydon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the fostering and children's services sector. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings. Contact FCA directly through our website and express your interest in the Referrals Officer role. Show us you’re keen!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching FCA’s values and mission. We love candidates who align with our goal of making a positive difference in children’s lives. Bring that passion to the table!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your application or interview. A simple thank-you email can keep you on our radar and show us you’re genuinely interested in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Referrals Officer in Croydon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Referrals Officer role. We want to see how you can make a positive impact on the lives of children and families!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for fostering shine through in your written application. We’re all about making a difference, so share why you’re excited about this opportunity and how you can contribute to our mission.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure your thoughts well, so we can easily see your qualifications and fit for the role. Remember, first impressions count!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure it reaches us quickly and securely. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at The FCA
✨Know the Company Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research Foster Care Associates. Understand their mission, values, and the services they provide. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in making a positive difference in children's lives.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Referrals Officer, strong communication is key. Prepare examples of how you've built relationships in previous roles, especially with professionals at various levels. Practise articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, as this will be crucial when liaising with Local Authorities and foster families.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Abilities
Think of scenarios where you've had to create thoughtful, person-centred solutions. Be ready to discuss how you approach challenges and ensure that placements meet the needs of children and families. This will highlight your initiative and ability to work independently.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the role, team dynamics, and the support provided to foster parents. This shows that you're not just interested in the job, but also in how you can contribute to the community and grow within the organisation.