What is a fostering panel?
The foster care panel is the final step in the process to become a foster parent. Panel involves a meeting with an independent group of professionals and care-experienced individuals who will review your Form F and make a recommendation on your suitability to foster.
Many potential foster parents find that this final step can bring up feelings of anxiety. Although it can seem daunting, remember that this is an exciting time where all of your hard work over the past 4-6 months is ready to pay off. We'd never let you get to the panel stage if we didn't believe you have what it takes.
What happens at a fostering panel in 4 simple steps
- Step 1: When it’s time to go to panel, you and your social worker will attend an online meeting where you’ll meet with a panel of independent people with various backgrounds, such as social workers, education experts, and care leavers. They’ll use their range of expertise and unique skill sets to evaluate your Form F document.
- Step 2: During the meeting, the panel may ask you some questions. While it’s normal to be nervous, always remember that you’ll have your assessing social worker by your side to support you throughout, and you can turn to them if you need any help answering a question.
- Step 3: You’ll then be asked to wait outside while the panel take some time to deliberate. They’ll call you back in to give you some feedback and will ultimately make a recommendation to our Agency Decision Maker on whether they think you’re ready to become a foster parent with us.
- Step 4: Our Agency Decision Maker will take some time to review your application and the recommendation of the panel and will make the final decision about your application. You’ll hear back from them within 7-10 working days after the panel meeting.
What happens after the fostering panel meeting?
If it’s good news, congratulations— you’re now ready to foster!
You’ll sign a foster carer agreement with us which makes things official. If you haven’t yet met your supervising social worker, you’ll get the opportunity to meet them. They’ll help you prepare for your first child while our dedicated referrals team gets to work on finding the perfect match between you and a child in need of a home.
Frequently asked questions about going to panel
How long does a fostering panel meeting last?
The fostering panel usually takes around an hour, though may take a little longer depending on circumstances.
What questions will I be asked at my fostering panel?
There's no set list of fostering panel questions asked by the panel, and so it's difficult to prepare in advance. The questions are different for everyone and will depend on your unique circumstances.
If you’re a single applicant who works, for example, the panel members may ask you about your working hours and your wider support network. If you have children, they might ask about your parenting experiences and relationship with them.
You may also be asked questions about your ‘Prepare to Foster’ training, how you’ve found the fostering assessment process, and what it is that motivates you to foster.
Who sits on a fostering panel?
There are usually between 6-10 people invited to attend panel meetings, all with experience of fostering or working with children in a professional capacity. The foster panel members include professionals and care-experienced individuals and will be led by an appointed chairperson. There will also be somebody taking notes and minutes.
Do I have to attend my fostering panel meeting in person?
Our panel meetings are conducted online via video call, meaning you can attend them from the comfort of your own home.
Can I bring someone along for support when I go to panel?
We welcome you to bring someone along for support to your panel meeting. Your assessing social worker will also be in attendance at the meeting to support you.
Start your fostering journey today
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