How the Fostering Panel Works: Behind the scenes with Fostering People

Want to learn more about the fostering panel?

In the latest episode of the Let’s Talk about Fostering podcast, host Faye welcomes Jan Widdowson, whose 20 years as a fostering panel administrator have given her unique insight into the ins and outs of how it all works.

From what the fostering panel actually is to when and why it happens, if you’re thinking about fostering, this episode will help you feel confident on your fostering panel day.

What will you discover in this episode?

Faye and Jan are taking a closer look at all things fostering panel, so you know exactly what to expect when it’s your turn.

Get comfortable, grab a cuppa, and let the pair ease your anxieties by answering the most asked questions about fostering panel meetings, including:

What exactly is the fostering panel?

What happens at a fostering panel meeting?

Who sits on the panel and why?

How common are negative recommendations, and why do they happen?

Why does the assessment process take time?

Why is the fostering assessment so thorough?

Why do your life experiences matter?

What actually goes on at the panel meeting?

What sort of questions will they ask?

You’ll also discover:

Jan’s advice for anyone thinking about fostering.

What it’s like to work in the fostering space for over 20 years.

A surprise message from John Platt, Fostering People’s managing director.

John’s favourite moments of working with Jan over the past 20 years.

“If they’re actually at panel, the chances of not being recommended are very, very slim.”

Find out more today

Want to learn more about fostering with Fostering People, including the assessment, fostering panel, support, training, and more? Call us today on 0800 077 8159 or submit your details via our online form. Our friendly team is ready to help you get started on your fostering journey.

Take your first step to becoming a foster parent today

If you’re interested in becoming a foster parent and would like to learn more, then we’d love to hear from you.

Simply fill in the form below and one of our friendly team will be in touch.

Enquiry

You are required to have a spare bedroom that’s always available to a foster child. The spare room cannot be shared, and must be big enough to fit a single bed, a wardrobe and a chest of drawers.

Do you have a spare room?*

To be approved as a foster carer in the UK, you must be a British citizen or have the legal right to remain in the UK without restrictions that would prevent fostering.

Which of the following applies to you?*

How can we help you with your enquiry?*

The following questions are intended to help us understand your experience with children. Please note that prior experience is not required to become a foster carer, as full training will be provided.

Have you had children of your own?*

Do you have professional experience of working with children?*

Have you had any prior experience of fostering, such as being a foster parent or growing up in a fostering family?*

Have you ever adopted a child?*

First Name*

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