Independent Social Worker - Panel Members

Sandwell Children's Trust; Black Lake; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A community-focused fostering organization in England is seeking Independent Social Workers. Responsibilities include approving and reviewing foster carers, attending meetings, and ensuring children's needs are prioritized. Ideal candidates will have relevant experience in childcare or fostering and a commitment to safeguarding children's welfare.

Benefits

Sessional fee for duties

Fee for training and meetings

Qualifications

• Statutory role requires an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Record check.
• Experience as a looked after child is valuable.
• Previous or current membership in similar panels is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Approve new foster carers and review existing ones.
• Consider terminations of foster carer approvals.
• Attend meetings and participate in training sessions.

Skills

Medical, health or mental health background

Experience in childcare

Recent experience of fostering children

Experience of working with/supporting foster carers

Education

Relevant education background

Job description

Overview

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; and considering when it may be necessary to terminate a foster carer's approval. Panel members are expected to attend Panel meetings held in Sandwell and to travel as required. They 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 undergo a yearly appraisal and attend Panel Business Meetings and training sessions as required.

Responsibilities

• Approve new foster carers (mainstream and connected person carers).
• Review existing foster carers.
• Consider when it may be necessary to terminate a foster carer's approval.
• Attend Panel meetings in Sandwell and travel as required.
• Participate in yearly appraisal and attend Panel Business Meetings and training sessions as required.

Remuneration

• Sandwell Independent Panel Members are paid a sessional fee for duties per Panel meeting and a sessional fee for training and attendance at business meetings.

Requirements

• Statutory role appointed through the Fostering Regulations 2011; an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Record check will be undertaken.
• Medical, health or mental health background; or education background.
• Recent experience of fostering children, including connected carers.
• Personal experience of previously being a looked after child.
• Experience in childcare or experience of working with/supporting foster carers.
• Previous or current Panel Member membership.

Organisation

Sandwell Children's Trust Fostering is recruiting 3 x Independent Social Workers to join its central list, which plays a vital role in shaping the lives of children who need safe, nurturing foster homes.