Description
We have a great opportunity for Independent Fostering Panel Members to join our Fostering Panel held at offices in Woking and Reigate.
We pay a fixed fee per panel of £300 for whole day panels and £150 for half day panels. As panel member you will not be permanently employed, but have the flexibility to work at times that suit you.
The Fostering Panel makes recommendations on who is suitable to care for vulnerable children. We hold several panels each month and successful candidates will be placed on a rota along with other panel members.
About The Role
You do not need experience of sitting on Fostering Panels as long as you have transferrable skills, including the ability to respectfully challenge others when needed and to be child focused.
The responsibilities of the role include:
1. Attending meetings and contributing to the panel discussion
2. Making recommendations based on evidence
3. Raising any questions and concerns, either prior to or at the meeting
4. Showing a commitment to challenging discrimination and oppression
5. Following confidentiality guidelines in relation to both paperwork and panel discussions
6. Participating in a panel induction and panel training
Your Application
To apply, we request that you submit a CV and answer the following 5 questions:
7. What do you think children need most from adults in their lives?
8. Describe the personal qualities you think foster carers need when welcoming children into their homes?
9. We are committed to celebrating difference. What does this mean to you?
10. How would being a fostering panel member benefit you?
11. Please can you confirm that you available to attend panel meetings at least six times per year on either Wednesdays or Thursdays, for days that may be from 9.15am to 4.30pm? These would take place at our offices in Woking or Reigate in Surrey?
Due to under-representation on our panel, we would particularly welcome applications from:
12. People from a Global Majority background
13. People who have personal experience of being a looked after child
14. People who care for a child who is still under the age of 18
15. People who have worked in a school environment
16. Qualified Social Workers with experience of working with children in foster care
The job advert closes at 23:59 on the 30th November 2025 with interviews planned to follow.
Contact Us
An enhanced DBS 'Disclosure and Barring Service' check for regulated activity (formerly known as CRB) and the Children's and Adults' Barred List checks will be required for this role.
We look forward to receiving your application,