Panel Members

Main Duties

• Prepare for each panel meeting by reading and reviewing all paperwork and reports (e.g., Form F Assessments, Annual Reviews) to make a recommendation regarding the suitability of foster carers.
• Attend fostering panel meetings and contribute to discussions in a respectful, analytical, and constructive manner, asking appropriate questions and seeking clarification to ensure informed recommendations.
• Make independent and reasoned contributions using knowledge, experience, and judgement based on national standards and statutory guidance, and/or personal and professional experience.
• Maintain high standards of integrity and professionalism at all times.
• Participate in induction, training, performance appraisal, and panel member development opportunities as required.
• To participate, with other members, in advising on policy and procedural matters as required.
• Address diversity issues and promote anti-discriminatory practice.
• Keep up to date with relevant legislation, guidance, and developments in fostering.
• Promote the welfare and best interests of children at all times.
• Declare any conflicts of interest and withdraw from discussion or decisions as appropriate.
• Respect and maintain confidentiality of all panel discussions and documentation.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of the panel's functioning and effectiveness.
• Assist in the quality assurance of the agency by providing feedback on the quality of reports, safeguarding, and regulatory compliance.
• Uphold the principles of safeguarding, confidentiality, anti-discriminatory practice, and equality.

Person Specification

Job Designation: Panel Member
Reports to: Panel Chair and Registered Manager

Education/Qualification

• Relevant professional qualification (e.g., Social Work, Education, Health, Youth Work, Mental Health, Psychology, etc.) OR lived experience as a foster carer, care leaver, etc.
• Commitment to ongoing learning and development.

Experience & Knowledge

• Experience working in a social care, education, or fostering environment.
• Good understanding of the needs of looked after children and fostering.
• Awareness of fostering regulations, guidance, and National Minimum Standards.
• Experience of attending or sitting on a fostering/adoption panel.
• Experience using social care recording systems (e.g., CHARMS).
• Understanding of safeguarding and child protection issues.
• Understanding of the assessment process and reviews of foster carers.

Skills & Abilities

• Excellent verbal communication.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• Ability to assess risk and make informed decisions which prioritise the wellbeing of children and young people.
• Ability to read and retain large quantities of information.
• Confident in IT systems and databases.
• Adaptability to fast-paced and changeable environments.
• Ability to work according to the company's Policies and Procedures.
• Ability to work as part of a team.
• Ability to work independently and demonstrate initiative whilst working in line with [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal]'s Policies and Procedures.
• A willingness to increase knowledge and understanding of issues through reading, discussion and training.

Personality

• Enthusiastic
• Highly motivated
• Empathetic
• Confident sharing views and opinions

Other Requirements

• Able to demonstrate a commitment to equal opportunities principles and practice.
• Satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure Barring System Checks (DBS).
• Satisfactory References.
• Right to work in the UK.