At a Glance
- Tasks: Support vulnerable children and families, manage caseloads, and organise 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: Commitment to safeguarding and promoting inclusion and diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your career.
- Qualifications: NVQ level 4 or equivalent experience in relevant fields required.
The predicted salary is between 34434 - 36363 € per year.
Salary: £34,434 - £36,363 per annum
Hours per week: 37 hours
Fixed term: 24 months
Interview date: Tuesday 9 June 2026
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 at Sam.Berry@wiltshire.gov.uk. 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 (including through our neutral vendor, Comensura). 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 employer: Wiltshire
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
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Wiltshire Council and the Kinship and Fostering team. Understanding their values and recent initiatives will help you connect your passion for supporting vulnerable children with their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to child protection and fostering. Think about your past experiences and how they align with the role. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or family to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your personality! During the interview, let your genuine passion for helping children shine through. Share personal stories that highlight your commitment and understanding of the challenges faced by families in special guardianship arrangements.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up! After your interview, send a thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Kinship & Fostering Support Worker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly:Before you start writing, make sure to read the job description carefully. It’s packed with clues about what we’re looking for, so highlight key skills and experiences that match your background.
Show Your Passion:We want to see your enthusiasm for making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children. Share personal stories or experiences that showcase your commitment to this cause in your application.
Be Authentic:While it’s tempting to use AI tools for help, we value authenticity. Make sure your application reflects your true self, including your unique experiences and motivations for applying.
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 and helps us keep track of all applications efficiently.
How to prepare for a job interview at Wiltshire
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of kinship and fostering regulations. Brush up on child protection policies and safeguarding practices, as these will likely come up during your interview. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you’re serious about the role.
✨Show Your Passion
This role is all about making a positive impact on vulnerable children’s lives. Be prepared to share personal stories or experiences that highlight your passion for supporting families and children. Authenticity goes a long way in demonstrating your commitment to the cause.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked how you would handle specific situations involving children and families. Think through potential scenarios and how you would apply your skills and knowledge to support them effectively. This will showcase your problem-solving abilities and relationship-building skills.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the team dynamics, support structures, or training opportunities available. This not only shows your interest in the role but also helps you gauge if the environment aligns with your values and work style.
