Describe a typical day. There are all the usual phone calls and emailsto deal with. I communicate with our training providers. And I reviewall the training events and courses that are taking place. For example,I make sure I know who has applied for what so I can maximiseattendance. I'm also responsible for the budget.
What other agencies and who else within your organisation do you workwith? I work with foster carers, health, education, leisure services,independent consultants and other local authorities. I also work withthe area child protection committee.
How did you end up in your job? Eight years ago I was a foster carer andI didn't feel I received the level of training I needed. I had done alot of public speaking and when I saw the job ad for this, I thoughtthis is what I want to do.
What qualifications do you need? I have a certificate in trainingpractice as well as a BA (Hons) in social sciences, which has some veryrelevant modules.
What are the main goals you have set yourself? Having a balance in mylife between being a mother and a career woman. I also try continuallyto improve our training to make it even better for foster carers.
What is the biggest challenge?
It's about putting foster carers at the centre of our decision-makingand balancing the finite resources we have.
What advice do you have for other people wanting to do this kind ofwork? It takes a lot of hard work but there are many rewards andbenefits.
