At a Glance
- Tasks: Support vulnerable children and families, managing caseloads and organising support activities.
- Company: Join Wiltshire Council's friendly and inclusive Kinship and Fostering team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working model, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your skills in a rewarding role.
- Qualifications: NVQ level 4 or equivalent experience in a relevant field required.
The predicted salary is between 34434 - 36363 € per year.
Are you passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable children in Wiltshire? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you to join our Kinship and Fostering team as a Support Worker.
Wiltshire Council is one of seven local authorities that have been chosen to participate in the Kinship Allowance Pilot scheme. As part of this initiative, we are seeking to expand our established Kinship Team. This post will be offered on an initial two-year fixed-term contract, with the potential for extension through to September 2029.
Our Kinship and Fostering team are responsible for the supervision, support and training of approved foster carers to ensure care arrangements meet children's needs and improve outcomes for the children we care for. The team also supports Special Guardianship and Private Fostering arrangements.
As a Kinship and Fostering Support Worker, you will manage a caseload of families with varying needs, including those in Special Guardianship arrangements. Acting as the first point of contact for the child and family, you will use a relationship-based model of practice to assist the child and family in identifying and achieving their goals and desired outcomes. You will be establishing strong relationships with children, young people and their carers by using appropriate intervention techniques. Your responsibilities will also include organizing support groups and related activities, as well as working directly with children to provide tailored support.
We are seeking an individual who holds a NVQ level 4 or equivalent experience in a relevant field. Proven experience of working with vulnerable children and families alongside a strong knowledge of special guardianship and fostering regulations will be essential. You will also need to be able to demonstrate your understanding of child protection policies and procedures and the importance of safeguarding.
Why us? Wiltshire Council is a friendly, welcoming place to work, with a 'One Council' ethos. Our hybrid working model means office staff are on site for at least half their hours, community-based staff carry out at least half their admin time in a workplace, and customer facing roles work entirely from their service location. We are committed to creating a workplace where positive relationships thrive and everyone feels engaged, supported and able to do their best. We do not tolerate discrimination, bullying or harassment. Everyone is expected to promote a culture of inclusion, dignity, trust and respect, guided by our vision and Our Identity.
Contact details: Samantha Berry, Assistant Team Manager Fostering. Please ensure to regularly check your spam or junk folder for any communication from us regarding the status of your application.
Application criteria: Please download and read the role description and person specification carefully before you apply. We understand that AI tools can support you in preparing job applications. However, we value authenticity and would encourage you to ensure your submission genuinely reflects your own experiences, skills, and motivations.
We are firmly committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and to the principles of inclusion and diversity in both employment and the delivery of services.
Statement of commitment to equality and inclusion: Disability Confident Employer.
Application process: Wiltshire Council does not accept unsolicited CVs or candidate details from recruitment agencies that are not appointed under a current, valid contract or approved supplier arrangement. Submission of unsolicited CVs or candidate details to the Council, whether directly or to individual employees, will not be considered as an introduction and will not create any obligation on the Council to pay any fees.
If a candidate whose details have been submitted speculatively is subsequently appointed through a compliant route, no agency fee will be payable in respect of the unsolicited submission. Agencies wishing to work with the Council must do so only via our approved procurement processes and neutral vendor arrangements.
Kinship & Fostering Support Worker in England employer: Wiltshire Council
Wiltshire Council is an exceptional employer dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable children and families in the community. With a strong commitment to employee well-being, our inclusive work culture fosters collaboration and support, while offering opportunities for professional growth through training and development. Join us in a role that not only provides meaningful work but also allows you to be part of a team that values dignity, trust, and respect in every interaction.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Kinship & Fostering Support Worker in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the fostering and kinship sector, attend local events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by researching Wiltshire Council and its values. Understand their approach to fostering and kinship care, and think about how your experiences align with their mission. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets what they’re about.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to safeguarding and working with vulnerable children. Use real-life examples to demonstrate your skills and knowledge, making it clear why you’re the right fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application is seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and making a difference in the lives of children and families.
We think you need these skills to ace Kinship & Fostering Support Worker in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly:Before you start writing your application, take a good look at the job description. It’s packed with info about what we’re looking for, so make sure you understand the role and how your experience fits in.
Show Your Passion:We want to see your enthusiasm for making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children. Share specific examples from your past experiences that highlight your commitment and passion for this kind of work.
Be Authentic:While it’s tempting to use AI tools for help, we really value authenticity. Make sure your application reflects your true self, including your skills and motivations. We want to get to know the real you!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the necessary forms and info right there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Wiltshire Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of kinship and fostering regulations. Familiarise yourself with the specific policies and procedures related to child protection and safeguarding, as these will likely come up during the interview.
✨Show Your Passion
Demonstrate your genuine passion for working with vulnerable children and families. Share personal experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to making a positive impact in their lives. This will help you connect with the interviewers on a deeper level.
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Think of specific examples from your past work where you've successfully supported families or children. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, showcasing your skills and experience effectively.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask at the end of the interview. This shows your interest in the role and the organisation. You might want to ask about the team dynamics, training opportunities, or how they measure success in this position.
