TLC Wales is a leading provider of family-based care for disabled children, children with complex needs, and those with life-limiting health conditions. Based in Llanelli, South Wales, we are part of the CareTech Fostering Division. We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, bespoke services to children and young people, and we are looking for a passionate and experienced Registered Manager/Head of Service to join our team.
Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Registered Manager to oversee and develop our fostering services in the South Wales area. This exciting leadership role offers the opportunity to drive the growth of our well-established and thriving independent fostering service. You will be responsible for managing a dedicated team, leading on strategic development, and ensuring that the service is compliant with regulatory standards.
Key Responsibilities
* Register with Social Care Wales (SCW) as the Registered Manager and become the registered responsible individual for the fostering service.
* Liaise with regulatory authorities to ensure compliance with registration requirements and address any conditions arising from inspections.
* Lead a team of 10+ staff, including qualified social workers, providing supervision, training, and support.
* Oversee the growth and development of foster carer recruitment, assessment, supervision, and training.
* Ensure the service operates in line with government frameworks, quality assurance standards, and compliance guidelines.
* Report to the Head of Disability Services contributing to strategic and operational decision-making.
* Manage safeguarding practices, ensuring child welfare is prioritized in all activities.
What We Are Looking For
* A qualified social worker, registered with Social Care Wales.
* A minimum of NVQ Level 5 in Care and Management or equivalent, or willingness to work towards this qualification.
* Extensive experience in operational and strategic management, particularly in the fostering sector.
* Proven experience in managing a team of professionals, fostering recruitment, assessments, training, and performance management.
* Knowledge of fostering legislation, policies, and procedures.
* Strong understanding of financial management, budgeting, and forecasting, including the use of P&L accounts.
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
* A full driving license and access to a car.
Key Skills and Behaviours
* Leadership: Skilled in motivating and leading a high-performing team, supporting individual development through coaching and mentoring.
* Operational Excellence: Able to manage complex operational challenges, implement business development strategies, and ensure continuous improvement.
* Strategic Thinking: Experience in developing and implementing business plans, marketing strategies, and managing resources effectively.
* Financial Management: Strong understanding of financial processes, budget management, and financial forecasting.
* Interpersonal Excellence: Able to manage relationships with external partners, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies, fostering trust and collaboration.
* Safeguarding: A commitment to safeguarding children and promoting their welfare, ensuring compliance with all child protection policies and procedures.
Roles & Responsibilities
* Monitor key areas of childcare activities, ensuring compliance with Welsh legislation.
* Supervise Practice Managers and administration staff, providing guidance and support in practice issues.
* Provide regular operational reports for management meetings.
* Build and maintain strong relationships with service providers and regulators.
* Ensure foster carers are suitably supervised and that reviews take place as required by law.
* Keep up to date with best practice in childcare and fostering, influencing organizational policies.
* Chair safeguarding meetings and ensure reports are submitted to the Safeguarding Board.
* Manage quality assurance processes, including case audits, foster parent reviews, and handling disciplinary issues.
* Person Specification
* Qualified Social Worker with experience at senior management level in fostering services.
* High emotional intelligence, resilience, and the ability to make decisions under pressure.
* Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively.
* A proactive approach to business development and fostering recruitment.
* Knowledge of safeguarding procedures and child protection regulations.
* Strong IT skills and the ability to work independently and autonomously.
Benefits
* Competitive salary with out-of-hours (OOH) included.
* Car allowance and generous annual leave package.
* A supportive and dynamic working environment within a growing and innovative organization.
* Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
* A positive commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
TLC Wales is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. This role will require a DBS check.