An exciting opportunity has arisen within our fostering service for a Fostering Panel Adviser.   

As a panel advisor, you will be involved in running a number of fostering panels, providing expert advice and guidance to the panel chair and members about the fostering regulations and National Minimum Standards. You will also provide expert advice to social workers attending panel and monitor the timeliness and quality of reports being presented.

With experienced practitioners around you and a stable senior leadership team you’ll be in an environment in which you can focus on real social work and the child’s journey, acting as critical friend to drive up practice and outcomes for our children. It’s a chance to make your mark as you provide expertise and guidance to colleagues to ensure that children get the interventions and support, they need.

What will you be doing?

As panel advisor you will:

• Provide professional fostering expertise and advice to social workers, managers and decision makers in matters relating to fostering
• Quality assure and oversee the collation and presentation of reports and paperwork to panel chairs, panel members and the agency decision makers
• Ensure panel procedures and processes meet the legislative and national minimum standards and are updated as required
• Work with the panel administrator to set the timetable for cases and agree the agenda for the panel; arrange for members from the central list to be invited to panel meetings so that each panel can discharge the business on the agenda effectively; ensure that panel complies with the statutory requirements in terms of composition and quorum.

About you

This is a great career opportunity for an experienced fostering practitioner with a good understanding of, and background in children’s social care and fostering practice.

 You will need a sound knowledge and understanding of the relevant legislation, guidance and Social Care Common Inspection Framework (SCCIF) which governs children's social care and fostering services.

You will hold children at the centre of your practice and support the process and practice of the agency fostering panel to achieve positive outcomes for children.

We are looking for someone wanting to make a difference, working with skilled, knowledgeable, passionate, and responsive colleagues within children’s social care and partner agencies. 

 You will hold current Social Work England registration.

If you would like to discuss any aspect of this position, you are welcome to email Anne Marie Banks on:  AnneMarieBanks@barnsley.gov.uk