the role of a transitional carer

We are seeking caring and patient individuals with a passion for supporting children and young people to realise their full potential.

In this challenging but rewarding role, you will be responsible for the safe and effective care of children and young people who need additional support.

The successful applicant will have excellent communication and negotiation skills and be able to communicate with the child/young person and their wider network, facilitating contact where necessary.

As a Transitional Carer, you will be part of a dedicated foster care team, working alongside a behaviour analyst, social worker, childcare hub staff, placement support workers, reunification and outreach workers.

In order to undertake this role you will need a strong and supportive social network who understand the need for these children to be protected from harm and abuse.

Transitional carers provide a home for children and young people seven days a week. Therefore, you will be required to be available.

Successful applicants will need to be resilient and able to maintain a placement even in adverse or extreme circumstances and in crisis situations with support of the team around you. You will need to be motivated and enjoy facilitating and enabling a child to recover from their trauma, to a level where they are able to transition to a longer term family placement.

You will be expected to be able to form trusting and valuable relationships with a child or young person and possess the skills and knowledge to support and apply agreed ‘trauma informed behavioural management strategies.’

You will also need a stable home with appropriate accommodation space that meets required standards.

In return, we can offer you:

• consultation with the behavioural analyst
• practical and emotional advice and guidance from supervising social workers and the other experienced foster carers
• regular face-to-face visits from supervising social workers at a minimum of every two weeks
• an enhanced fostering payment throughout the year
• built in respite
• a comprehensive programme of training, specialised training and development opportunities
• regular support groups and practice workshops

This role would suit applicants who have a relevant qualification or a background in childcare, social care, teaching, youth work or foster care.