Independent Panel Member

As an Independent Panel Member, you will use your professional expertise to contribute to robust, child-focused decision making. Working alongside a multidisciplinary panel, you will provide independent scrutiny and constructive challenge when considering foster carer approvals, reviews and other fostering-related matters.

This opportunity is ideal for professionals who are passionate about safeguarding children and promoting high-quality fostering services. Your health knowledge and experience will help ensure children's health, wellbeing and developmental needs are fully considered within panel discussions.

About the Role

Our Fostering Panel meets on the first Wednesday of each month. Meetings are held either online or at our Harold Wood office, supporting fostering services across the London and East region.

Panel Members play an important role in maintaining high standards and ensuring that recommendations are informed, balanced and focused on achieving the best possible outcomes for children and families.

What You'll Bring

We are looking for someone who:

• Has a recognised health professional qualification and relevant professional experience
• Has knowledge of children's health, development and wellbeing
• Understands safeguarding responsibilities and the needs of vulnerable children and young people
• Can analyse complex information and contribute confidently to panel discussions
• Demonstrates sound professional judgement and the ability to offer constructive challenge
• Is committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion
• Has excellent communication and teamwork skills

Previous experience of fostering, adoption, children's services or panel work is desirable but not essential.

What We Offer

As an Independent Panel Member, you will:

• Play a key role in improving outcomes for children and young people
• Work alongside experienced professionals from a range of disciplines
• Contribute to the quality and effectiveness of fostering services
• Receive induction and ongoing support to fulfil the role effectively
• Be paid £225 per panel meeting attended

Commitment Required

• Attendance at the Fostering Panel held on the first Wednesday of each month
• Review panel papers in advance of meetings
• Attendance may be in person at Harold Wood or online, depending on operational requirements

Recruitment Process

The selection process will include:

• Formal interview
• Participation in a Fostering Young Recruiter Panel

Interview Panel:

• Jeannette Elat Essoubat, Service Manager
• Mashuda Wahid

Interview dates will be confirmed following shortlisting.

Interested?

If you would like an informal conversation about the role, please contact Jeannette Elat Essoubat, Service Manager, London and East Fostering Service.

Join us and help ensure children are provided with safe, nurturing and supportive fostering arrangements where they can thrive.