To facilitate the initial matching of referrals received from Local Authorities to available approved foster families across the Division (By the Bridge, Fostering Support Group, Park Foster Care and TLC Fostering).  To consider the risks, needs and matching criteria and communicate effectively with Regional Branches, Local Authorities and Foster Parents.  To co-ordinate the end to end placement process between Local Authorities and Services.

To aid the growth of the division by identifying initial matches based on referrals for children and young people with foster families who can meet their needs. To work in partnership with services on current vacancies and work as part an accountable team member to meet both individual and team targets.

Scope:

As outlined, the service will respond to the needs of local authorities in England and Wales ensuring that matching processes are followed in line with regulatory requirements and service needs as outlined in the Statement of Purpose for the respective services. It should also be noted that coordinators may have additional duties based on service needs and will be defined in consultation with the individual staff and Registered Manager.

About CareTech Fostering Division: 

The Fostering Division is made up of four unique, innovative and dynamic independent fostering agencies providing high quality foster care and services to children and their foster families. These include By the Bridge, Fostering Support Group, Park Foster Care and TLC Fostering.Our services are based in England and Wales working in partnership with local authorities to meet the needs of children and young people. Services provide a range of placements with support from a multi-disciplinary team working directly with foster parents.

We aim to create an environment where all people feel valued and can grow, develop and achieve their goals.  We work to ensure that the fostering division is an innovative, creative and dynamic organisation, whom thrives on the diversity of its staff, families and children, to ensure that we assist and care for those most vulnerable, and advocate with them, and on their behalf.

Responsibilities

Review and respond to referrals for children and young people from Local Authorities and determine the needs and risks outlined and identify appropriate matches with families based on approval and experience outlined.
Review and respond to requests for the internal movement of children and young people in consultation with supervising social workers and foster parents for respite and change of placements.
Following correct procedures to distribute referrals in consultation with supervising social workers to families across the whole organisation in a timely manner.
Liaise with Local Authorities regarding suitable families and offers for available placements.
In line with fostering regulations, liaise with the Local Authorities, Link Workers, Social Worker’s, Foster Parents and Regional Branches to ensure the match is appropriate for all.
Following correct procedures, ensure all relevant details, including financial information, is logged appropriately.
Direct queries from Foster Families and Link Workers to Local Authorities; additionally, deal with queries from Local Authorities, Link Workers, Social Workers, Foster Families and regional Branches.
Work proactively with the referrals team to meet organisational targets as directed by your line manager.
Any other task directed by Management

General Responsibilities  

To work in accordance with divisional and service specific policies and procedures.
To contribute to the culture of the fostering division and individual services.
To uphold and embody our values at all times, ensuring the protection of children is paramount
To adhere to responsibilities under data protection, health and safety legislation and policies.
To demonstrate a positive commitment to equalities and diversity.
To undertake such other duties as may be reasonably expected or commensurate with your role.

Person Specification

You will be highly organised and professional with an excellent telephone manner and good communications skills.  You will be personable, confident and engaging with the ability to build relationships and work well in a team to achieve performance targets with drive and enthusiasm.

Essential

Ability to process complex detailed information
Ability to prioritise and multitask
Ability to think intuitively
Excellent problem-solving abilities, including adaptability and flexibility
Positive, can-do attitude
Ability to see tasks through to c