Specialist Foster Carer with the Family Pathways Programme
Become a Specialist Foster Carer with the Family Pathways Programme
Location: Stoke-on-Trent
Role Type: Full-Time | Therapeutic Fostering | Life-Changing Impact
Are you ready to make a real difference in the life of a young person? Stoke-on-Trent City Council is seeking Specialist Foster Carers to join the innovative Family Pathways Programme; a pioneering model designed to help young people transition from residential care into stable, therapeutic foster homes. This is more than a fostering role. It is a chance to be the turning point in a teenager’s life.
About the Role
As a Specialist Foster Carer, you will:
- Provide a nurturing, stable home to teenagers with complex emotional and behavioural needs.
- Work as part of a multi-agency team to offer therapeutic care and stability.
- Support young people 24/7, including during crisis or transition periods.
- Promote emotional growth, resilience, and a sense of belonging.
What We’re Looking For
You do not need previous fostering experience, but we are looking for people who have:
- Experience supporting young people, especially those who have experienced trauma.
- A resilient, flexible, and compassionate approach.
- Commitment to safeguarding and understanding risks such as exploitation, mental health, or substance misuse.
- Availability to provide full-time care (24/7)
- A spare bedroom suitable for a young person
- Willingness to engage in ongoing therapeutic training and reflective practice.
- Strong communication skills and a team approach.
Additional requirements:
- Aged 21 or over
- Resident in the UK with a stable home environment
- Car useressential
Support & Training
We offer:
- Specialist therapeutic training and development
- Dedicated key worker support
- Peer support groups and enhanced supervision
- 24/7 emergency duty team access
- Multi-agency coordination and reflective practice sessions
Fees & Benefits
- Competitive professional fostering fee (paid up to 52 weeks/year)
- 20 days paid holiday
- Celebration allowances (e.g. birthdays, Christmas)
- Initial setup and clothing allowance
- Mileage allowance
Why Join the Family Pathways Programme?
- Be part of a model that prioritises belonging, stability, and long-term outcomes
- Join a supportive, forward-thinking team
- Change the trajectory of a young person’s life
Ready to Apply?
Be part of something transformative.
Apply now to become a Family Pathways Specialist Foster Carer.
email: fostering@stoke.gov.uk
telephone: 01782 234555
Salary range
- £39,000 per year