Children's Placements Officer

Job Title: Children's Placement Officer

Location: Walsall

Hours: 37 per week, full-time

Working Structure: Hybrid - 2 days in office / remainder working from home

Pay Rate: 16.89 per hour (PAYE) / 22.16 per hour (Umbrella)

Requirement: Enhanced DBS (desirable)

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Source and identify appropriate foster homes, residential placements, and supported accommodation for children aged 0-17.
• Ensure all providers meet required quality standards, including valid Ofsted/CQC registration, and that all documentation is up to date and compliant.
• Negotiate fees with providers to achieve best value while maintaining high-quality care and services.
• Prepare and complete contracts in line with current frameworks, ensuring accurate recording of all placement searches.
• Collaborate closely with Children's Social Care Teams, including Commissioning (Adults and Children), Emergency Duty Team, Fostering, and external providers.
• Respond promptly in urgent situations, supporting teams who may be awaiting immediate placement solutions.

Skills & Experience

• In-depth knowledge of children's social care processes and placement requirements.
• Strong negotiation skills, balancing cost efficiency with service quality.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to remain calm, professional, and solution-focused under pressure.
• High attention to detail, particularly in compliance and quality assurance checks.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively within a small, dedicated team.