Fostering Support Worker

Job Advertisement: Fostering Support Worker

Position: Fostering Support Worker (Southwest Service)

Location: Gloucester (Supporting families across Bristol, North Somerset, Gloucester, Forest of Dean, Swindon, and Oxford)

Salary: £25,202 - £29,970 per annum + £4,500 car allowance

Contract Type: Full-Time, 37 hours per week (Flexibility required, including regular work outside standard 9-5 hours)

About the Role

Are you passionate about making a lasting, positive difference in the lives of children and young people? We are seeking a dedicated Fostering Support Worker to join the experienced team at Five Rivers Child Care Ltd in Gloucester.

In this vital and rewarding role, you will work directly with children, foster carers, and professionals to ensure exceptional outcomes. From coordinating engaging participation events and group activities to delivering guided 1-to-1 sessions within foster placements, you will champion child-centred values and help young people thrive.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate group work, activities, and participation events for children and young people as part of our agreed programmes.

• Deliver 1-to-1 sessions to children and young people in foster care placements, promoting health, wellbeing, and emotional support with guidance from our social work and clinical teams.

• Build strong, supportive relationships with foster families across the South West region.

• Ensure children and young people remain at the forefront of all decisions, keeping their voices heard and respected.

• Work collaboratively with multi-agency professionals while maintaining clear, empathetic communication.

What We Are Looking For

• A child-focused individual with a strong understanding of and deep empathy for children in care.

• Excellent communication and active listening skills, with the ability to connect easily with children, colleagues, and adults.

• Experience note: While experience in the fostering sector or working with young people is advantageous, it is not essential, and no formal social work qualifications are required—comprehensive training will be provided!

• Essential requirements: A valid UK driving licence, regular access to a car, and the Right to Work in the UK.

Why Join Us?

At Five Rivers, we are a social enterprise committed to turning children's lives around since 1989. We hold a Gold Investors in People Award and heavily invest in your professional growth alongside fantastic perks:

• Competitive Package: £25,202 - £29,970 per annum plus a £4,500 annual car allowance.

• Generous Leave: 25 days annual leave plus 8 bank holidays.

• Financial Wellbeing: Enhanced company pension scheme (4% employer contribution) and Simply Health Medical Cash Back Scheme.

• Recognition & Perks: Blue Light Card, Refer-a-Friend bonus scheme, and long-service recognition awards.

• Support Systems: Ongoing training and learning through our dedicated Learning & Development Team and comprehensive Employee Support Programmes.