Support Worker

We are seeking a full time motivated, enthusiastic, conscientious and creative Support Worker, working closely with our team of Supervising Social Workers and Foster Carers to deliver the best outcomes for children and young people in foster care. Flexibility is required in terms of place of work and hours of work. The position is based from our West Midlands Regional Office, Bromsgrove. However, role is split geographically, covering the Midlands. There will be a requirement to travel to our Foster Carers and work with the children in their care. You will be required to work 35 hours per week with some weekend and evening work. Access to a car is essential for this role for which a car allowance will be paid.

**THE CHILDREN’S FAMILY TRUST (THE CFT)**

Is a well-established Registered Charity and an Independent Fostering Agency providing a wide range of foster placements. We firmly believe our Foster Carers are our most valuable resource deserving the highest levels of support and remuneration we can offer. We work in partnership with Local Authority Social Workers and are committed to keeping our children safe and secure in stable and loving families.

**JOB PURPOSE**

The Support Worker post has been created to support foster carers, children and social workers. The post will require working outside normal office hours in order to meet the needs of the service. This will include evening work, bank holidays and weekend work, therefore flexibility is a must

**JOB DESCRIPTION**

In addition to the functions detailed below, employees are required to carry out such other duties as may reasonably be required.

The role will include undertaking specific tasks in relation to supporting foster carers and the children placed with them and includes:

- Direct work with children and young people with the support of our social work team
- Facilitating and supervising contact between children in care and their families
- Organising events for foster carers and/or children on a regular or ad hoc basis, and a range of other tasks
- Promoting the welfare of children/young people placed with The CFT
- Working directly with children/young people in a skilled and focused way as part of an agreed programme of work.
- Co-ordinate groups and joint work for all children/young people involved in the foster care process
- Transporting children to and from school as and when needed.

**THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE**

We are looking for an individual who is child focused and able to work as part of a wider team to achieve the very best outcomes for our children and have the ability to communicate well with both children and adults. Experience of working with children and young people is essential, experience in the fostering sector would be an advantage but not essential. No formal social work qualifications are necessary, but an understanding of, and empathy for the work required is necessary. You will be able to demonstrate a professional approach and be able to deal with difficult, challenging and stressful situations on occasion. You will need to be approachable whilst also understanding the confidential aspect of the role. A full driving license with business cover and fully comprehensive insurance is essential and you must be confident in transporting children and young people in sometimes stressful and difficult situations.

**WHAT YOU GET IN RETURN**

We are a progressive organisation who promote a friendly and supportive working environment, where you will be rewarded for your hard work and results. As well as a competitive annual salary we also offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:

- Pension
- Private Health Care
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Enhanced Maternity Pay
- Long Service Awards
- Free Parking
- Dental Cover
- Life Assurance
- Occupational Sick Pay
- Holidays (24.5 days, + bank holidays
- Additional day off for Birthday (following successful completion of probation period, 6 months)
- Additional 3 days holidays after 5 years’ service and additional 2 days after 10 years’ service

*Please note, this role requires an enhanced DBS check and overseas Police check (if required).

We are not taking calls from agencies for this role. Previous applicants need not apply.

**Job Types**: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: £28,699.00-£33,499.00 per year

**Benefits**:

- Company car
- Free parking
- Private medical insurance

Work Location: In person