What Is the Fostering Panel?

If you’re considering becoming a foster parent, the penultimate stage in the assessment process is attending a fostering panel. 

What Does the Fostering Panel Do?

The fostering panel is a group of people who meet to carefully review your assessment to become a foster parent. Their role is to ensure that every child is placed in a safe, supportive, and nurturing home. The panel looks at the information gathered during your assessment and discusses the recommendation your assessing social worker has made. 

Who Attends the Fostering Panel?

The panel is made up of a mix of professionals and independent members, including social workers, foster parents, care-experienced individuals, agency representatives, and sometimes specialists in health or education such as nurses or teachers. You will attend panel alongside your assessing social worker; they will be there to offer you support. The panel’s role is to review your fostering assessment fairly and holistically.

How Long Does a Fostering Panel Take?

A fostering panel meeting usually lasts around an hour, though this can vary depending on the discussion. You’ll be asked a few questions about your assessment, and your assessing social worker will be there to guide you through the process.

What Happens After the Panel?

After reviewing your application, the panel makes a recommendation to the Agency Decision Maker (ADM). For example, they might suggest you be approved to care for one child aged 5–11 on a short-term basis. The ADM then makes the final decision based on the assessment provided by your assessing social worker, the panel’s recommendation, and minutes from the panel’s discussions.

At Family Fostering Partners, we’ll support you through every stage of the process, including preparing for panel day. Learn more about becoming a foster parent and start your journey towards making a difference to a child’s life today.