Job Opportunity with Fair Ways Fostering: Placement Officer

Location: Central Support (Portsmouth)
Salary: £22,499 - £26,483
Contract Type: Full time
Specific Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Closing Date: 29 February 2024

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Who are Fair Ways and what do we stand for?
Fair Ways is a great place to work. We are a team. We care about each other and are all committed to making a change to the lives of the young people and service users in our care. We will not apologise for calling our staff great, the best, or world-class. Our staff are at the core of our organisation and we celebrate them by shouting it from the rooftops!

Where and when do we need you?
We are currently recruiting for a Placement Officer to work within our Placements Team to establish robust relationships with commissioners and ensure efficient placement matching and commissioning processes to enable Fair Ways to meet its occupancy goals while adhering to relevant standards and best practices. Additionally, this role is crucial in providing insightful data analysis to guide Fair Ways' strategic direction.

In this role you will be responsible for a range of exciting things like:

• Placement Matching: Proactively identify and match suitable referrals, aiming to rapidly fill vacancies while ensuring compliance with all necessary documentation and commissioner requirements. This aspect is pivotal in optimising occupancy rates and meeting organisational objectives.
• Communication and Collaboration: Cultivate and maintain dynamic relationships with Local Authorities, ensuring an up-to-date and comprehensive contact database. Ensure effective collaboration with internal managers and key stakeholders.
• Data Analysis and Reporting: Collect, analyse, and report referral and occupancy data, offering valuable insights and identifying trends critical for informed business planning and strategic decision-making.
• System Administration: Ensure effective administration of systems and procedures, maintaining accurate records of referrals and placements. This role is instrumental in ensuring that all team activities are accurately documented and easily traceable, promoting operational efficiency and accountability.

This role is 37.5 hours per week worked flexibly between home, office and central support depending on the needs of the business. There will be one fixed day at Central Support each week which will be your team day allowing in person communication and collaboration with your team.

All candidates must have a full driving license and have access to the use of a car. Successful candidates will be required to provide an enhanced Disclosure (DBS). This disclosure cost will be met by Fair Ways.

Desirable…. but not Essential
Whilst we value the knowledge and understanding that experience and qualifications can bring, we also know that some of our best people have come to us from unrelated backgrounds. These people already held our core values at heart, and with the dedication of our amazing in-house training and development team, we have supported the rest!

• Administrative Qualification: Preferably hold a Level 2 (or equivalent) administrative qualification or demonstrate similar practical abilities.
• Microsoft 365 Proficiency: Demonstrable skills in Microsoft 365, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Adaptability and Priority Management: Ability to manage changing priorities while maintaining clear communication.
• Experience in a placement officer role is advantageous.

Let us look after you!
At Fair Ways, we care about your well-being, here is what we currently offer to our dedicated team:

• Exciting Opportunities: Participate in free staff lotteries with amazing prizes, such as £1000 holiday vouchers, weekends away, luxury hampers, and vouchers. Experience a workplace that celebrates your contributions.
• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a Holiday Accrual Scheme and the option to purchase additional holidays (up to 5 days). We value your time and offer flexibility to accommodate your existing commitments.
• Health and Support: Benefit from Health Shield, our health cash plan, and access to our Employee Assistance Scheme, providing emergency financial assistance and 24/7 counselling services. Access your salary when you need it with Early Pay – The ability to withdraw an amount of your salary early each month to assist with any unforeseen circumstances.
• Growth and Development: Unlock your potential with our Education Grant, offering funding for accreditation up to master's level. Engage in leadership courses to enhance your skills and progress in your career.
• Wellbeing Matters: Experience team-building days, summer festivals, and well-being initiatives, promoting a positive work environment. Take advantage of discounted gym memberships and a cycle-to-work scheme to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
• Recognition and Rewards: Be appreciated for your dedication through annual Staff Awards and Long Service Awards. Build a secure future with our pension scheme and gain eligibility for a Blue Light Card.
• Supportive Community: Be part of our diverse workforce that embraces all communities. We value your unique perspective and encourage you to contribute to our inclusive and vibrant culture.

Become part of our community – We can’t wait to meet you!

If you're passionate about making a difference and are ready to embark on an incredible journey, apply today and be a part of something amazing at Fair Ways. Join our team and help shape brighter futures!

Full details and application documents here