Sandwell Children’s Trust Fostering is recruiting an Independent Vice Chair to join its’ central list, which plays a vital role in shaping the lives of children who need safe, nurturing foster homes. The Panel meets at least twice monthly, and makes independent recommendations and oversight about foster care, including: Approving new foster carers (mainstream and connected person carers). Reviewing existing foster carers. Considering when it may be necessary to terminate a foster carer’s approval. Panel members are expected to be able to offer regular attendance and be able to travel to attend Panel meetings held in Sandwell. Panel members must be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and putting children’s needs and voices at the heart of every recommendation. Panel members will be expected to undergo a yearly appraisal and attend Panel Business Meetings and training sessions as required. We are looking to recruit person with one or more of the following: Medical, health or mental health background. Education background. Recent experience of supporting fostered children. Experience in childcare. Experience of working with/supporting foster carers. Previous or current Panel Member Membership. Additional information Fee: Independent foster panel members are typically considered self-employed office holders, not employees, meaning they do not receive a regular salary. Sandwell Independent Panel Members are paid a sessional fee for their duties per Panel meeting and a sessional fee for training and attendance at business meetings. This post involves a statutory role appointed through the Fostering Regulations 2011 and an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Record check will be undertaken. For this opportunity, you must be able to prove you have the right to work in the UK. For an informal discussion or if you have any queries please contact: Deborah Carroll, Foster Panel Manager via email Deborah_Carroll@sandwellchildrenstrust.org or 07825792221 To apply:- Please complete the attached application form and send to Recruitment_childrenstrust@sandwell.gov.uk