Chris - Agency Advisor, Fostering Panel team

My Supportive Team Works Well Together

I work within a supportive and experienced fostering service where colleagues are approachable, knowledgeable and always willing to help. My team is responsible for overseeing the fostering panel and managing our Fostering Reviewing Officers.

We work closely together, welcome open discussion and regularly come together through team meetings and away days. The service also supports flexible home and office working, helping us stay connected while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

I'm Supported to Develop My Career

I joined Gloucestershire as an agency social worker before progressing into permanent Deputy Team Manager roles within the fostering service. More recently, I moved into a part-time Agency Adviser (Team Manager) role within the Fostering Resource Service.

Throughout my career, I have received excellent support from managers and senior leaders, who have encouraged me to take on new challenges and develop my skills.

Supervision and Development Matter

I've been supported to access specialist training opportunities throughout my career and we also benefit from monthly clinical supervision through CAMHS.

Supervision is seen as a valuable and supportive space to reflect, share ideas and work through challenges. It plays an important role in helping us develop professionally and achieve the best outcomes for children.

Agile Working Supports My Work-Life Balance

Flexible and agile working has transformed the way we work. I feel trusted to manage my time effectively, balancing home and office working in a way that meets both service and personal needs.

The flexibility has made a significant difference to my work-life balance, allowing me to work productively while reducing the time spent commuting and creating more space for life outside of work.

Gloucestershire Encourages Innovation and Improvement

One of the things I value most is Gloucestershire's openness to new ideas and continuous improvement. Within the Fostering Resource Service, we are encouraged to contribute to service developments and help shape how we work.

There are regular opportunities to be involved in working groups and improvement projects, ensuring we continue to provide the best possible support for children and foster families.

What Systemic Practice Means to Me

For me, systemic practice is about understanding different perspectives and recognising that positive change is possible through collaboration, relationships and shared understanding.

It is an approach that has strengthened my practice and helped me work more effectively with families and professionals throughout my career.

Providing Safe and Loving Homes Is Rewarding

Although I no longer work directly with children, my role remains incredibly rewarding. Through quality assurance and service development, I help ensure that children in our care are provided with safe, stable and nurturing homes.

Knowing that my work contributes to achieving the best outcomes for children is what makes the role so meaningful.

Gloucestershire Is a Great Place to Live and Work

Gloucestershire offers a fantastic mix of vibrant towns, picturesque villages and beautiful countryside. From Cheltenham's festivals and culture to the stunning scenery of the Forest of Dean, there is something for everyone.

The county is also well connected, making it an excellent place to both live and work.

Why I Recommend Gloucestershire County Council

Gloucestershire provides a supportive culture, excellent development opportunities and genuine flexibility. I've been able to build a rewarding career while maintaining a healthy work-life balance, and I would happily recommend it to anyone considering a career in Children's Services.

"Gloucestershire has supported me throughout my career, providing opportunities to develop, contribute to service improvement and help achieve the best outcomes for children."