Back in April 2018, Team Fostering had the privilege of hosting a group of social workers and managers from Iraq, as they visited the North East to gain valuable insight into the foster care process here in the UK. Representatives from STEP (UK), an international development charity, and the Kurdish Ministry of Labour & Social Affairs met with several of our foster carers, managers and social workers to develop their understanding of how Team Fostering operates, and how this might relate to their own common goals in the Kurdish region of Iraq. As Team Fostering Director Walter Young stated at the time, “I’m delighted that we can share our knowledge and experience with STEP (UK) and the Kurdish Regional Government. This visit to the UK has offered them the chance to learn about what we do and why it’s so successful. Sharing our expertise in this way can make a big difference to children’s lives.” Flash forward to 2020, and Walter has now just returned to the UK after some time in Iraq with STEP (UK), following up on the growth of the project since the group’s UK visit in 2018. Nearly two years on, foster care resources are firmly in place in the Kurdish region, and a total of 16 placements have been made. The team are now looking to develop their short-term and emergency placement options. The project hasn’t been plain sailing however, as setting up foster care in a location without the prior infrastructure to support it remains a challenging process. As Walter explains, “People don’t always understand the concept of foster care when they first encounter it, so a huge part of the task is raising awareness of what fostering is, and why it’s so beneficial to children and young people in the area.” To help with this, Walter also arranged for a very special conference call while he was in Iraq. His sister Emma, a foster carer in Scotland, skyped in to give an honest, insightful view into the care of the children and young people she works with. This gave those working within the care system in Iraq an added real-life perspective on the sector outside of Team Fostering, which they valued immensely. Walter's sister Emma on a skype call with the Iraq project group With Walter’s support, foster care organisations from around the world have benefited from Team Fostering's advice and expertise. If you're interested in fostering or in learning more about what it means to operate as an ethical agency, you can speak with us on 0800 292 2003.
To find out more about the valuable work STEP (UK) does, visit http://www.step-uk.com/ Source: www.teamfostering.co.uk Care Day is the world’s biggest celebration of people with Care Experience. The term “care experienced” refers to anyone who has been or is currently in care. This care may have been provided in many different settings, including: Kinship care – living with a relative who is not your mum or dad; Looked after at home – with the help of social work; Residential care – living in a residential unit or school; Foster care – living with foster carers; Secure care – living in a secure unit and Adoption – living with adoptive parents. Who Cares? Scotland has joined with organisations across the UK and Ireland to make a joint request to the UN to make the event, which has been going since 2016 and originated in Scotland, an official occasion to help support and promote people from the Care Experienced community. According to the UN, “international days are occasions to educate the general public on issues of concern, to mobilise political will and resources to address global problems, and to celebrate and reinforce achievements of humanity.” Each international day offers opportunities to organise activities related to the theme of the day. Organisations and offices of the United Nations system, and most importantly, governments, civil society, the public and private sectors, schools, universities and, more generally, citizens, make an international day a springboard for awareness-raising actions. Duncan Dunlop, CEO of Who Cares? Scotland said "There is a global community of Care Experienced people who deserve to be championed, cherished and connected to each other. We are hopeful that the UN will support our call to make Care Day an international day to help do just that, forever." To join in with Care Day 2020 follow #CareDay and #Reimagining. Source: https://www.whocaresscotland.org/ New research shows big gains over a short period of time for care-experienced pupils – if they have the support of a trusted adult We have known for decades that looked-after children do worse in school. In more recent times, there has been a real will to do something about it. The result has been some improvement but the pace of change has been glacial and there’s a long way to go before the results of looked-after children are on a par with their peers. The latest statistics, for instance, show that 39 per cent of looked-after children gain one or more National 5 or equivalent, against 86 per cent of all school leavers. In other words, the challenge schools face is that when you have lived through the trauma of being taken from your family – irrespective of how dysfunctional that family was – and having multiple placements and schools, qualifications can take a back seat. But a report – published just ahead of the Care Review – indicates big gains are possible for looked-after children over short periods of time. It was published by MCR pathways mentoring programme, which is now established in 10 Scottish councils. What the figures show is that around nine in 10 (87.8 per cent) care-experienced mentored pupils achieved at least one National 5 qualification or equivalent, compared with 6 in 10 (61.0 per cent) care-experienced pupils with similar characteristics who received no mentoring. The MCR Pathways pupils were also more likely to stay on in school when they were no longer legally obliged to do so (70.7 per cent versus 58.8 per cent) and to end up in a college, university or a job – 81.6 per cent versus 62 per cent. So how does MCR Pathways do it? The charity – set up by entrepreneur Iain MacRitchie – carefully matches looked-after children and disadvantaged pupils with volunteer mentors who come into school once a week and meet with the child for an hour. I spoke to a mentor and mentee a few years ago. The mentor, Mary Hunter Toner, was a retired primary headteacher and the mentee, Billy McMillan, was formerly an “unambitious, scared wee boy” from Easterhouse, who had gone on to blossom into a first-year student studying society, politics and social policy at the University of the West of Scotland. Billy didn’t think he would have got there if it hadn’t been for his meetings with Mary, which took place over the course of three years. Mary helped to build his confidence and ambition, he said. For him, the power of the programme lay in the volunteer mentor having no agenda other than to “help you do what you want”. Many other heartwarming stories and some other impressive statistics have been published by MCR Pathways but this latest report answers an important question: was it the mentoring that made the difference? We know that looked-after young people have worse attainment but they are, of course, an amorphous group. Children who are living in foster care are around four times more likely than children looked-after at home to gain at least one National 5, or equivalent. So was it these looked-after children – the ones who were destined to get better results anyway – who were ending up on the programme? This latest research checked that “the impact was not the result of differences in characteristics between those pupils who decided to take part in MCR Pathways and those who have not taken part”. It found that the young people who took part in MCR Pathways from 2015 to 2018 were, if anything, “among the most deprived groups”. They were more likely to live in the most deprived areas of Scotland than the non-mentored care experienced youngsters (60 per cent versus 51 per cent) and to be claiming free school meals (38 per cent versus 30 per cent). The researchers – ScotCen Social Research – cautioned the sample size was small but ultimately concluded: “These findings clearly indicate that MCR Pathways participants were more likely to stay on at school, achieve at least one SCQF Level 5 qualification and move on to a positive destination after leaving school.” It would seem therefore something powerful is happening and as of earlier this week (Monday) Glasgow City Council announced it was going to permanently embed MCR Pathways mentoring into its education system. The independent care review also advocated mentoring as a means of improving educational attainment. Interestingly, though, the ScotCen research also found one of the main barriers to mentoring meetings taking place was arranging suitable meeting times; part of the problem was convincing classroom teachers the mentoring was worth missing their lesson for. French, English, maths, history and music are all important, but so is having a reliable, supportive adult in your life, motivated by nothing more than a desire to see you do well. Many have the luxury of taking those adults for granted – but if you don’t, surely that’s something worth skipping class for? Emma Seith is a reporter for TES Scotland Twitter: @Emma_Seith Source: www.tes.com Location: Lincolnshire Leaving Care Service – Louth Contract type: Permanent Hours: 22 hours / week (3 days) Salary : £26,966 - £37,414 FTE Closing Date: 26 February 2020 Barnardo's work in partnership with Lincolnshire County Council to deliver its Leaving Care Service for young people aged 16-25.
We have recently been inspected by Ofsted and have achieved an ‘Outstanding' grade for the service we provide. Following a recent re-commissioning of the service we are looking to recruit a part time Team Manager primarily based in Louth, Lincolnshire. Initial Specific Responsibilities Barnardo's have been delivering the Leaving Care Contract on behalf of Lincolnshire County Council for a number of years and following a successful re-commissioning Barnardo's will continue working in partnership with the County Council. Within service we not only have dedicated Leaving Care Workers we also have developed specialist services in relation to developing accommodation and supported lodgings specialists alongside workers helping with education, employment and training and we are looking to introduce a new senior project worker post within the service to lead on quality assurance, participation and embedding the Signs of Safety programme within Leaving Care. It's an exciting time to join the service as we extend our provision for 16-25 year old Care Leavers. We're looking for Team Managers with drive and determination who understands about working with looked after children and care leavers. Supplementary Information
Hours 22 hours / week (3 days) There is an expectation that Team Managers will be required to travel across the region and where the service need requires. When completing your application please refer to your skills knowledge and experience in relation to the Person Specification, Job Description and Additional Information document (if applicable). This should be done with an understanding of the context of the service described. About Barnardo's At Barnardo's we believe in children – no matter who they are, what they have done or what they have been through. Please read about our basis and values following the link below. You will be asked questions relating to them as part of the recruitment process for this role. Barnardo's is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce for staff and volunteers. We actively encourage applications from disabled, Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic and male candidates as they are under-represented within Barnardo's. Our basis and values Full details and application details here We’ve had an early spring clean, tidied up the content, added some images and generally made everything look nice and fresh! The main change is in the What We Provide section. Historically we have always steered clear of highlighting the fee paid to carers – but it’s something that we thought we should at least give examples of. Carers are highly skilled individuals who invest a lot of time in the assessment process, training – as well as the amazing and wonderful way they transform children’s lives every day. So, whilst not a ‘job’ in the traditional sense, it’s important to acknowledge that there is a fee – just as there would be if fostering for a local authority. In our About Us section, we’ve added in a video which serves as a nice introduction to the ethos and approach of The Foster Care Co-operative. We hope you like it! Our values, as a not-for-profit, are very important to us – so we’ve highlighted those too in this section. The Fostering With Us section has been edited to offer clear and concise information about becoming a foster carer with us, and we’ve added some feedback from our foster carers and care leavers too. Our accessibility button is located on the left side of the screen, no matter where you are on the site. It’s there to adapt the site in a number of ways including options to make the text larger or to read the page out audibly. For those interested in fostering, there is now a floating ‘Become a carer’ button on the right-hand side of the screen. This means that you can have a good look around our site, and make a no-obligation preliminary fostering enquiry at any time. So, have a good look around, we hope you like what you see – and we’re always here if you have any questions. Source: www.fostercarecooperative.co.uk In August 2019, members of our young persons’ groups in the North East and Yorkshire came together to discuss Team Fostering’s environmental impact as an organisation, and to think in depth about how the agency, and our foster families, could improve in these areas. With climate change and environmental champions like Greta Thunburg gaining high profile attention in the media, our young people were inspired to take positive action and formed an Environmental Task Force. Members of Teamies, the North East group, and Project Listen, the Yorkshire group, linked up to explore the environmental challenges the world is currently facing and to look for achievable solutions. The groups travelled to Dalby Forest in North Yorkshire and put their minds to work straight away on recommendations for the organisation, as well as a reusable bag design initiative, before completing activities including archery, ropework and climbing. The key focus of the day was to reduce plastic waste and the young people put together some top tips on how to reduce plastic use at home, as well as useful feedback for Team Fostering’s board of directors on reducing its waste, carbon footprint and general environmental impact. Smart ideas sourced by the group included ‘using public transport instead of the car’, ‘growing your own fruit and vegetables’ and ‘getting involved in a local litter pick’. The young people were also set the task of designing a colourful, engaging image to be printed on a reusable cotton shopping bag, which would then be gifted to foster carers. Ellie, aged 13 from the North East group, had her winning design selected by the wider group to be printed on the bags. You can see the group's choice above. Ellie said “We [the young people of Team Fostering] are trying to help save the world; if you see the world as we do, you will try as well.” The finished bags arrived in the regional offices in January 2020 and were distributed to fostering households very soon after, along with facts and useful information from the group on recycling and reducing plastic waste. Only a few remained, with those quickly purchased by members of Team Fostering staff. The popular design went down a storm with everyone who received one. You can find out more about the work Team Fostering does with young people on our Education and Support page here. Source: www.teamfostering.co.uk The Medicines Evaluation Unit (MEU) presented us with a cheque for £2,688.28, raised by the during its two year charity partnership with the Together Trust. MEU, which is based on the Wythenshawe Hospital site in south Manchester, is one of the UK’s leading contract research organisations, possessing extensive pharmaceutical, scientific and clinical expertise. David Rogers, MEU Director of Operations, said: “We are committed to supporting local charities and as a Manchester-based business it’s important for us to give back to the local community and support worthy causes. “We select our dedicated charity every two years by inviting each member of staff to nominate, then vote for their chosen charity, and the Together Trust was selected for the two year period of 2018/2019. “We’ve been delighted to have supported the Together Trust over the past two years as we believe that the care, support and special education of children and adults, including those who need additional support such as those with autism, learning disabilities or complex health needs, is a truly worthwhile cause.” “As a company we also benefited from raising money for the Together Trust. Fundraising activities raised staff morale and brought different company departments together, in particular our Charity Christmas Market, where MEU staff and volunteers hosted their own stalls, selling a range of items including baked goods, handmade gifts and jewellery. “We also sold locally produced honey, as part of the Bee in the City/Sneezebee trail in July 2018 and donated all proceeds to the Together Trust. “We really enjoyed visiting the Together Trust’s Inscape House School and Cafe, where we saw first-hand the great work and attention given by staff in supporting and caring for children and young adults with autism. We’re delighted to celebrate the Together Trust’s 150th anniversary this year, which is such a great achievement for the charity.” Alicen Thorn, Corporate Fundraiser at the Together Trust, said: “I was really impressed by all the fundraising efforts at the MEU, they were so professional and so much fun at the same time. “Everyone at MEU was so approachable, friendly and clearly had the interests of the people we support at heart. We’re really grateful for all their hard work and commitment and we will certainly be putting their generous donation to good use. “We support individuals with diverse and complex needs. To do this we need support from corporate partners like MEU. Donations like theirs help provide specialist equipment, extra activities, additional support from specialist staff and support for families. “I’ll be keeping them updated on all the good that’s done with the money they’ve raised and we’re delighted that a team of MEU staff will take part in the Together Trust’s Hotel Football Tournament this June.” Source: www.togethertrust.org.uk 2 x Part Time Senior Supervising Social Worker (Fostering) (East Midlands: Leicestershire / Northamptonshire/Derbyshire/Staffordshire) £31,401 – £36,272 per annum (dependent on experience) Application Closing Date: Monday 2nd March, 2020 + 45p a mile travel, ‘out of hours’ payment, 40 days annual leave (inclusive of bank holidays FTE) and 10% employer contribution pension scheme
We are seeking to recruit two experienced and enthusiastic Supervising Social Workers for our friendly team, working primarily from home. There is flexibility in terms of days and hours worked, and the geographical location of the successful candidates. However, we are ideally looking for Social Workers wishing to work 22.5 hours per week. There will be involvement in recruiting, assessing, supervising and supporting Foster Carers to support us in maintaining our quality fostering service for looked after children. The role involves recruitment of foster carers, travel to the homes of our foster carers as required (which will sometimes involve travelling distances), leading occasional projects, running and delivering training and support groups, and taking part in an ‘out of hours’ duty system (3 times a year). Applicants need to be able to take a flexible approach to working, have proven fostering experience (demonstrating significant experience of working within Children’s Services) and be able to demonstrate outstanding people skills. Applicants must hold a Diploma or BA in Social Work (or equivalent Social Work qualification) and are required to be registered with Social Work England. To allow our Social Workers to provide a thorough, personal and meaningful service to our fostering families, FCC believe that caseloads need to be kept low. We are a not for profit organisation, putting the needs of our children and carers first and are looking to appoint Social Workers who is as passionate about this as we are. To discuss this role further, please contact Steve Field – Director of Child Care or Barbara Bull – Head of HR/Deputy CEO, on 01684 892380. Full details and application documents here Location: Lincolnshire Leaving Care Service – Lincoln Contract type: Permanent Hours: 37 Salary: £27,814 - £33,358 Closing Date: 26 February 2020 Interview Date: To be confirmed Barnardo's work in partnership with Lincolnshire County Council to deliver its Leaving Care Service for young people aged 16-25.
We have recently been inspected by Ofsted and have achieved an ‘Outstanding' grade for the service we provide. Following a recent re-commissioning of the service we are looking to recruit a Project Worker to work across the region with our teams based in Lincoln, Louth, Peterborough and Sleaford. We also have some Care Leavers based out of County and their voice is equally as important in relation to service development and delivery. Initial Specific Responsibilities Within Lincolnshire the Signs of Safety model is used across County as an assessment tool and we are looking for a champion to help embed this across the Leaving Care Service. Participation is key within out service and the successful candidate will build on the work we have already started to increase the participation offer we currently have in place for young people. We are looking for an imaginative, creative worker who has a passion to ensure young people's voices are heard. We have an established quality assurance framework within the service and we expect the new post holder to co-ordinate our audit's across service building on the work that's already in place. Supplementary Information
Project Worker 3, Lincolnshire Leaving Care Service. This role is based in Barnardo's East Yorkshire and Lincolnshire locality, initially at Sleaford. Barnardo's believe in creating equality of opportunity in the workplace and supporting people to manage their work-life balance; we are therefore are open to offering flexible working arrangements. About Barnardo's At Barnardo's we believe in children – no matter who they are, what they have done or what they have been through. Please read about our basis and values following the link below. You will be asked questions relating to them as part of the recruitment process for this role. Barnardo's is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce for staff and volunteers. We actively encourage applications from disabled, Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic and male candidates as they are under-represented within Barnardo's. Our basis and values Full details and application documents here Location: Heaton Moor Salary: £20,516 - £24,242 (plus sleeps paid at an additional £62.64 per night.) About Us
At Together Trust we believe everybody deserves an equal chance in life. There are no exceptions. We provide a wide range of support services including fostering, residential, community and family support. We also provide specialist educational support through our schools and colleges. We have a number of specialist residential children’s homes which cater for young people with emotional and behavioural difficulties. These homes provide a nurturing, safe and secure environment for children who may have experienced trauma, abuse or neglect or who may require specialist support to enable them to move forward positively in their lives. We have current vacancy for a Senior Childrens Support Worker to join a great team in Heaton Moor, Stockport. *you must have your level 3 in children and young peoples workforce or equivalent to be successful for shortlisting* As our Senior Childrens Support Worker… You will support children aged 5 to 18 years of age, being a positive and supportive role model. You will encourage young people to develop confidence, self-esteem and essential life skills. As part of one of our incredible residential teams, you will work hard to empower our young people, help them break through barriers and experience happiness and hope. As a Senior Childrens Support Worker, you will plan activities, support our young people to attend therapy sessions, family contacts and healthcare appointments. You will be familiar with current legislation, complete reports and assessments for our young people, mentor other residential staff, liaise with local authorities regularly and act as an advocate. You will be responsible for key working young people and leading shifts. Most importantly, you will ensure that they are safeguarded at all times in what can be a challenging environment. About you You are caring and passionate about supporting children who have emotional and behavioural difficulties. Experience of working in residential environment is essential, as is the desire for a challenging and rewarding role and a genuine interest in developing your skills through the training that we offer. As our teams provide 24/7 support, you will need to be flexible and willing to work shifts over a 7 day week on a rota basis. It is essential to hold a level 3 qualification in caring for children and young people or equivalent. Full induction training is provided on commencement of your post and we are committed to offering career development. Due to the nature of this role, you will also be required to take part in a reasonable number of sleep in shifts, the time you are asleep is not included in the 37.5 hours but is paid at an additional £62.64 per night. You must be over 22 years of age to apply for this role due to the age range of the young people in the service. (These roles are exempt from the Employment Equality (Age) Regulation 2006). Full details and application documents here |
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