Registered Fostering Manager in Herne Bay, Kent

Sparks Resourcing is working with a small, family-run Independent Fostering Agency in Herne Bay that is looking for a Registered Manager to lead its service. The start date is as soon as possible.

The agency focuses on building a real community around its children and foster carers. It currently supports 11 fostering households, so as Registered Manager you’ll know the carers and young people well and see the impact of your leadership directly. You’ll lead a close-knit team of 3 Supervising Social Workers and a part-time administrator, working closely with the Responsible Individual to shape the direction of the agency.

Experienced Team Managers from a fostering background who are ready to step up are also encouraged to apply.

What’s on offer

• £60,000 – £65,000 per annum
• 27 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays
• Office base in Herne Bay, with working arrangements to be agreed with the successful candidate
• The chance to lead a small, values-driven agency where your influence is felt across the whole service

The Role

You will take overall responsibility for the day-to-day running of the agency, making sure practice stays excellent, safe and compliant. Key responsibilities include:

• Registering with Ofsted as Registered Manager and making sure the service meets the Fostering Services Regulations 2011 and National Minimum Standards
• Acting as the agency’s Designated Safeguarding Lead
• Overseeing initial home visits, allocating Form F assessments and monitoring progress against timescales
• Supervising and supporting the Supervising Social Workers, maintaining high standards of recording and practice
• Leading the training and development programme for staff and foster carers
• Working with the Panel Chair and Responsible Individual on practice issues, and reviewing the Statement of Purpose, Children’s Guide and policies
• Managing quality assurance, monitoring and reporting, including reports to Ofsted
• Handling complaints, allegations and safeguarding concerns in line with agency procedures
• Carrying out supervision, probation reviews and annual appraisals for staff
• Taking part in the out-of-hours rota 

What You’ll Need

• A recognised social work qualification and registration with Social Work England
• At least 2 years’ experience relevant to fostering within the last 5 years
• At least 1 year’s experience supervising and managing professional staff
• The ability to satisfy Ofsted as a Registered Manager
• Thorough knowledge of the Fostering Services Regulations 2011, the NMS and Ofsted requirements
• A Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management or equivalent, or a willingness to work towards it
• Strong leadership skills, including recruitment, supervision and performance management
• Good analytical, reporting and organisational skills, with the ability to stay calm under pressure
• Must hold a full UK Driving Licence