Amy - Deputy Team Manager, Fostering Support Team

A Supportive Culture Has Made a Huge Difference

I've been part of Gloucestershire's Fostering Service for 11 years, and the open, honest and supportive culture is one of the main reasons I've stayed. There is a real sense of teamwork, with colleagues and managers who are approachable, experienced and committed to achieving the best outcomes for children.

My Managers Have Supported My Progression

Since joining Gloucestershire, I have progressed from ASYE to Social Worker, Senior Social Worker and now Deputy Team Manager. Throughout my career, I have been encouraged and supported by managers who have helped me develop my skills, take on new opportunities and achieve my career goals.

Great Support and Development Opportunities

Workloads are regularly reviewed to ensure they remain manageable, and there are excellent opportunities for reflective supervision and professional development. The training offer is varied and accessible, including in-house learning, resources from The Fostering Network and Research in Practice, as well as both face-to-face and online training options.

My manager and the wider leadership team are approachable, solution-focused and genuinely invested in supporting staff.

Agile Working Supports My Work-Life Balance

I live outside of Gloucestershire, so flexible and agile working makes a significant difference. I enjoy spending time with colleagues in the office while also having the flexibility to work from home when I need focused time for administration and planning.

This balance helps me work effectively while maintaining a positive work-life balance.

Seeing the Difference We Make Is Rewarding

One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is seeing the positive impact fostering can have on children's lives. Through strong relationships with foster carers and children, I see the difference that therapeutic parenting makes to children's emotional wellbeing, confidence and stability.

I also see the value of the support and guidance provided by supervising social workers, helping foster carers create safe, secure and nurturing homes where children can thrive.

I Love Working in Gloucestershire

I enjoy working with a diverse range of children, families and communities across the county. Gloucestershire offers a unique mix of rural communities, market towns and larger urban areas, creating a varied and rewarding environment in which to work.

What Systemic Practice Means to Me

For me, systemic practice is about understanding relationships and the wider systems that influence children's lives. It encourages curiosity, reflection and understanding, helping us see challenges from different perspectives.

This approach complements the trauma-informed and therapeutic parenting model we promote within fostering, helping us provide the best possible support for children and foster families.

Why I Recommend Gloucestershire County Council

Gloucestershire offers a supportive culture, excellent development opportunities and a workforce that is committed to improving outcomes for children. It is a place where people are encouraged to learn, develop and contribute to meaningful change.

"The supportive culture, opportunities for development and focus on improving outcomes for children are what have kept me in Gloucestershire for the last 10 years."