Fostering Registered Manager

• Location: Hartlepool
• Salary: £55,000 - £58,000 per annum
• Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Fostering Registered Manager to lead and develop our fostering service in Hartlepool. This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated leader to oversee the delivery of high-quality, child-centred fostering services, ensuring positive outcomes for children and young people.

Day-to-day of the role:

• Provide effective leadership and management of the fostering service.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, regulations, and standards.
• Oversee the recruitment, assessment, approval, and ongoing support of foster carers.
• Monitor and improve service quality through robust quality assurance processes.
• Lead and manage a team of Supervising Social Workers and support staff.
• Ensure safe and appropriate matching of children with foster families.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with Local Authorities and key stakeholders.
• Manage safeguarding concerns, allegations, and complaints appropriately.
• Lead on Ofsted inspections and service improvement plans.
• Monitor service performance, budgets, and operational targets.
• Produce reports for senior leadership and regulatory bodies.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement, inclusion, and excellence.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Qualified Social Worker (Degree in Social Work, DipSW, CQSW or equivalent).
• Current Social Work registration.
• Significant fostering experience within children's services.
• Previous management experience within fostering or wider children's social care services.
• Strong understanding of fostering regulations, safeguarding legislation, and best practice.
• Excellent leadership, people management, and communication skills.
• Full UK Driving Licence and access to a vehicle.
• Desirable:
  • Previous experience as a Registered Manager within a fostering agency.
  • Leadership or management qualification.
  • Proven track record of achieving positive inspection outcomes.
  • Experience in service development and growth.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary of £55,000 - £58,000
• Generous annual leave entitlement plus bank holidays
• Pension scheme
• Ongoing professional development and training
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Flexible working opportunities
• Mileage and business travel expenses
• Supportive and collaborative leadership team

To apply for this Fostering Registered Manager position, please submit your CV and cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are interested in this position.