Placements Officer

Children’s Placements Officer – Multiple Positions Available ? Birmingham
? Apply: john.deane@servicecare.org.uk

Are you experienced in children’s social care and passionate about making a real difference? We are currently recruiting multiple Children’s Placements Officers to join a highly impactful team supporting vulnerable children and young people across Birmingham.

This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a service that plays a critical role in securing the right placements at the right time, helping to shape positive futures.

About the Organisation You will be joining Birmingham Children’s Trust, an organisation driven by one clear purpose:
“Working together to make Birmingham the greatest city to grow up in.”

Every team member plays a vital role in improving outcomes for children, young people and families—through collaboration, compassion, and high-quality practice.

The Role As a Children’s Placements Officer, you will be at the heart of the placements service—working closely with social workers, providers, and partner agencies to identify and secure the most appropriate placements.

This includes:

• Coordinating and sourcing fostering, residential, emergency and specialist placements
• Providing professional advice to referrers to ensure the best outcomes for children
• Matching children and young people to placements based on individual needs, risks, and circumstances
• Negotiating placements within a Best Value framework
• Working collaboratively with internal teams and external providers
• Attending and contributing to planning meetings, reviews, and multi-agency discussions
• Maintaining accurate and timely records using internal systems

You’ll play a key role in ensuring every placement is safe, suitable, and supports positive long-term outcomes.

What We’re Looking For Essential Experience & Qualifications:

• NVQ Level 3 (or equivalent) in a relevant field (e.g. Children & Young People)
• Experience within social care, fostering, residential care or similar settings
• Experience working in fast-paced environments, including duty-based work and deadlines
• Strong IT skills including databases and case recording systems

Key Skills & Knowledge:

• Excellent communication and report-writing skills
• Ability to assess needs and match appropriate services
• Strong organisational skills and ability to prioritise under pressure
• Confident decision-making and risk balancing
• Knowledge of child development, care options, and relevant legislation
• Ability to manage challenging situations, conflict, and emotional demand
• Effective negotiation and partnership working skills

Why Apply?

• Opportunity to join a high-performing, supportive team
• Be part of a service that directly impacts children’s lives every day
• Work within a values-driven organisation focused on quality and innovation
• Ongoing training, development, and career progression opportunities

Safeguarding Commitment This role is subject to enhanced safeguarding checks. The organisation is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and expects all staff to uphold these values.

Referral Bonus ? Know someone perfect for this role? Refer them! If they’re successfully placed, you could receive £250.

Apply Now With multiple positions available, interviews are expected to take place quickly. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make a real difference.

? Send your CV to: john.deane@servicecare.org.uk