Volunteers sought to join approval panel for foster carers

A number of volunteers are being sought to join a panel assessing the suitability of individuals seeking to become foster carers.

When a person applies to become a foster carer, they go through a rigorous process of checks and assessment to ensure that they are right for the job. As part of this process, an independent panel of volunteers assess each applicant and make recommendations.

Now, the panel are seeking new members from the local community.

To join the panel, you don’t need to have had experience of being a foster carer, but some experience of working with children is essential. An allowance is paid to reimburse panel members.

Councillor Margaret Cracknell, portfolio holder for children and education at North East Lincolnshire Council, explained more:

“We’re looking for some really engaged people who have some experience of working with children.

“These panels help us to decide whether someone should become a foster carer so it’s important that they have an interest in fostering, but not necessarily experience of being a foster carer themselves. They may have experience of community-based work.

“We’re also keen to attract people who are care experienced – whether that be through foster care or other care experience.

“I’d encourage anyone interested in this role to get in touch with the team for an informal chat. It really is important that we are able to hold these panels to decide on the future foster carers for our children.”

The role is also well suited to anyone with experience of working in organisations such as the Police, a school or college, or in the health sector.

Members of the fostering panel attend the meetings and, after taking into account the papers provided, make recommendations on individual applicants.

Panel members will also have the opportunity to advise on fostering policy and procedural matters.

Volunteers will receive a full induction, training, and an enhanced DBS check, and are expected to attend a minimum of four panel meetings per year.

Interested and would like to find out more? Email: [email protected].