Placements & Assessment Officer (PO1)

Who You Are

• Knowledgeable about the complex needs of Looked After Children and capable of identifying appropriate interventions.


• Organized with excellent skills to manage multiple tasks and respond to emergencies effectively.


• Experienced in working collaboratively with statutory sector partners.


• Experienced in market management and engaging with external service providers.


• Prepared to travel across the country for conducting detailed assessments and monitoring visits.


• Resilient in handling the emotional demands that come with the role.


• Flexible with the ability to work unsociable hours if required.


• Desirable: A car driver with statutory children’s services experience and knowledge of engaging young people.

What the Job Involves

• Commissioning care placements and support services for Looked After Children and care leavers, ensuring needs are met within available resources using Best Value principles.


• Leading assessments for Independent Fostering Agencies (IFA), Residential, and Semi-Independent resources commissioned by Enfield.


• Undertaking Quality Assurance visits to assess residential and semi-independent resources and critically evaluating them.


• Producing and analyzing assessment reports quarterly for senior management.


• Ensuring robust management information is available for management review.


• Developing an annual assessment program, ensuring services are responsive to individual needs and provide value for money.


• Matching placements to the needs of children using evidence-based practices and legislative guidelines.


• Working closely with social workers to advise on the most appropriate placement options and ensuring the safeguarding of children in external placements.


• Contributing to the development and implementation of the Department’s strategy, performance monitoring, and meeting equality objectives.


• Interfacing with external agencies and operational services to ensure optimal placement stability.


• Complying with the Council's policies in health, safety, information security, and child safeguarding.