Responsible Individual - Fostering

Polaris CommunityResponsible Individual - FosteringSalary: £75,000 - £80,000, depending on experienceHours: 35 hours per weekContract: Full Time, PermanentLocation: NationwideBenefits£3,000 car allowance30 days' annual leave, rising to 35 days with length of service, plus bank holidaysLife Assurance - 2x annual salaryEnhanced company pensionEmployee Discount SchemeMedical Cash PlanAbout UsWe are Polaris, one of the UK's leading communities of children's services providers.Within the community, we have independent fostering and adoption agencies that have been passionately improving the lives of young people for over 30 years, alongside leaving care services, residential services, education and bespoke children's services contracts. Our nurturing community works collectively to support the very best outcomes for every child in our care. We're ambitious for our children and young people, families and staff, and we believe in their futures.What We Are Looking ForWe are looking for a Responsible Individual to join the community and oversee three of our fostering agencies, all rated as Good or Outstanding by Ofsted - Orange Grove Fostering Services, Fosterplus and Clifford House.The Responsible Individual will provide strategic oversight, management support and supervision to registered managers within the fostering agencies, ensuring services are safe, effective, well-led and fully compliant with regulatory requirements. The post holder will promote continuous improvement, positive outcomes for children and young people and high standards of professional practice across the services.Key ResponsibilitiesAct as the Ofsted Responsible Individual for Clifford House, Orange Grove Fostering Services and Fosterplus, reporting to the Managing DirectorProvide management support, guidance and professional supervision to registered managersEnsure fostering services are safe, well-run and compliant with relevant legislation, regulations and National Minimum StandardsMaintain oversight of safeguarding arrangements and act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead for the servicesSupport registered managers with preparation for Ofsted registration and inspections, as well as subsequent action planningSupport recruitment, induction and people management processes in accordance with Polaris policiesLiaise with Ofsted and other regulatory bodies regarding notifications, inspections and significant eventsInvestigate and oversee complaints, incidents and safeguarding concerns as requiredMaintain effective relationships with local authorities, commissioners, Foster Parents and external stakeholdersPromote the wellbeing, participation and positive outcomes of children and young peopleSupport organisational change and continuous service improvementAbout YouThe ideal candidate will have:A social work qualification and current Social Work England registrationExcellent leadership and management skills, with experience of managing fostering agenciesExperience of leading regulatory inspectionsStrong organisational and communication skillsA full UK driving licence and access to your own vehicleThis is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a highly supportive environment and to continue building on three established, high-performing fostering agencies that continue to develop and grow.For an informal discussion about this opportunity, please contact Tracy Livesey, Managing Director, at .To be considered, please apply and we will be in touch to discuss your application.No agencies, please.Polaris Community is an equal opportunities employer and has been awarded Disability Confident Employer status by Jobcentre Plus.The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced DBS check.TPBN1_UKTJ