Independent Panel Members - Fostering Agency - Amicus Foster Care - Bristol

Job description

POST: Independent Panel Member

RESPONSIBLE TO: Panel Chair/Agency Director

LOCATION: Bristol

HOURS: As required

JOB SUMMARY

Amicus Foster Care are looking to appoint Independent Fostering Panel Members to its Fostering Panel. Amicus Fostering Panel currently consider cases in relation to the approval of fostering applicants and the review of the approval of existing fosters carers.

Fostering Panel Members must be available to attend the Fostering Panel once a month, currently the panels are being held on the last Thursday of each month. The panel convenes at 17.00pm and the work is generally concluded by 19.00pm, however on occasions when difficult issues are being addressed it can be extended and there may sometimes be a need for a full day panel or panel training.

Fostering Panel Member role will be considered self-employed; Amicus will therefore have no responsibilities in respect of paying their national insurance and / or income tax contributions.

The first stage of the process, the applicants will need to attach their CV.

Main duties and responsibilities

To prepare for Panel meetings, reading papers carefully and identifying issues.
To actively participate in contributing to the Panel’s consideration of cases and the making of clear well-evidenced recommendations.
To ensure that all those attending Panel are treated with respect and courtesy
To address diversity issues and to promote anti-discriminatory practice at all times.
To assist in developing, promoting and monitoring policies and procedures and high standards of work in the fostering agency.
To attend Panel members training and participate with this at least annually.
To safeguard the confidentiality of all Panel papers.
To take part in an annual appraisal.

Experience & Qualifications

Experience, professionally or personally or both, of the placement of children in fostercare or of children being cared for away from their birth family.
Qualifications commensurate with the experience brought to the Panel.

Knowledge

An understanding of the purpose and function of the Panel and the agency which Panel is serving.
An appreciation of the effect of separation and loss on children.
An understanding of fostering process and practice and the legislative framework for the Panel, or the capacity to develop this knowledge quickly.

Abilities

Excellent listening and communication skills
To be able to communicate well and clearly both verbally and in writing.
The ability to analyse large amounts of complex and sometimes distressing information.
Be able to make an assessment and form a view based on the evidence presented.
To be able to work co-operatively as part of a multi-disciplinary team.

Attitudes

A commitment to fostering as a way of meeting a child’s needs.
A commitment to safeguarding and the promotion of children’s welfare.
Valuing diversity in relation to ethnicity, religion, gender, disability and sexuality.

A willingness to increase knowledge and understanding