We now have an exciting opportunity for you to join as a Foster Panel Member, on the Swindon Foster Panel.
Foster panel frequency:
1. The Foster Panel runs on a fortnightly basis. Operating on a Tuesday the first week then a fortnight later on a Wednesday.
What does the Swindon Foster Panel do?
2. We consider applications for approval and recommend whether or not a person is suitable to be approved as a foster carer.
3. We monitor and advise on the procedures for undertaking reviews of foster carers.
4. We hold annual reviews and other vital processes to make sure our children are being cared for by the very best, committed carers.
5. We make recommendations on any other matters relating to fostering regulations.
Who makes up the panel?
6. The Chair - who will be responsible for leading and directing the panel.
7. The Vice-chair- who chairs panel in the absence of The chair.
8. A Panel Advisor.
9. A Social Worker with at least 3 years post qualified experience.
10. Independent Panel Members- People who want to make a difference to the lives of Swindon’s children and young people who are in the foster system.
What do we offer?
11. Annual training.
12. Annual appraisal of Foster Panel Members.
13. Quarterly Panel Business Meetings.
14. £200 per day, inclusive of reading time.
What do we need from a Panel Member?
The Panel Member will be part of a central list of people who we will call upon to attend Panel for the purpose of making recommendations about the approval of foster carers. Independent Panel Members need to be able to commit to attend a minimum of one foster panel per month.
We are looking for someone who will always be thinking of the child, ensuring they are at the forefront of all decisions. Must be able to work as a team member to achieve best outcomes for the children. Experience of working in the fostering sector and/or children/young people would be an advantage but not an essential requirement. No formal social work qualifications are necessary, but an understanding of and empathy for the work required. Good practical judgement combined with the ability to read and analyse complex written reports is needed.
To complement our existing skills set, and to ensure we have well rounded panels for the benefit of those in our care, we are particularly interested to hear from candidates with direct care experience, education and health professionals, people with experience of being a foster carers (although not for Swindon Borough Council due to potential for conflict of interest) and people with social work experience.
This role will be subject to an Enhanced (DBS) check employment references.