Fostering Manager / Registered Manager
Brighter Fostering is an independent fostering agency led by experienced, passionate social work professionals who are committed to delivering high‑quality, child‑centred fostering services. We work closely with local authorities and partner agencies to recruit, train, and support foster carers who provide safe, nurturing homes for children and young people.
Our approach is values‑led, rooted in safeguarding, strong relationships, and continuous improvement. We are proud to offer a supportive, reflective working culture that prioritises excellent practice, regulatory compliance, and positive outcomes for children in care.
Role Description
We are seeking an experienced Fostering / Registered Manager to provide strong operational leadership for our fostering service. This is a full‑time, hybrid role (minimum two days on site) based in Leeds.
The Registered Manager will have full responsibility for the day‑to‑day operational management of the fostering service, ensuring high standards of practice, compliance with regulatory requirements, and positive outcomes for children and foster carers.
The role includes line management and supervision of social work staff, oversight of fostering assessments and reviews, safeguarding leadership, and readiness for Ofsted inspection.
You will work closely with the Quality Assurance Manager / Responsible Individual as part of the senior management team, contributing to service development, quality assurance, and continuous improvement. The role requires confident decision‑making, strong leadership, and the ability to balance operational demands with trauma‑informed, child‑focused practice.
Key areas of responsibility include:
- Operational leadership of the fostering service
- Line management, supervision, and performance management of social work staff
- Oversight of foster carer recruitment, assessments (Stage 1 & 2), annual reviews, and panel processes
- Safeguarding leadership, allegations management, and statutory notifications
- Placement matching, stability support, and partnership working with local authorities
- Preparation for and leadership during Ofsted inspections
- Training strategy for foster carers and staff
- Complaints oversight and learning-driven service improvement
Qualifications & Experience
- A recognised Social Work qualification and current Social Work England registration
- Eligible to register with Ofsted as a Registered Manager
- Minimum of 4 years’ front-line experience
- Minimum of 2 years within fostering services (ideally within an Independent Fostering Agency)
- Minimum of 2 years’ experience in a management or deputy management role, with direct responsibility for supervising social work staff
- Strong working knowledge of Fostering Services (England) Regulations, National Minimum Standards, and safeguarding legislation
- Proven ability to lead teams, manage performance, and make confident, defensible decisions
- Excellent communication, organisational, and problem‑solving skills
- Strong commitment to safeguarding, quality practice, and improving outcomes for children
