What happens at the fostering panel in Wolverhampton?

The fostering panel in Wolverhampton is a formal, independent review of your suitability to foster. Panel members consider the evidence gathered during your assessment, the needs you could meet, and the approval terms that may be appropriate. They then make a recommendation to the agency decision-maker, who makes the final decision.

Who attends the panel? The panel is made up of people with relevant fostering, social care and safeguarding experience, alongside independent members. The chair leads the meeting, and your assessing social worker normally presents the main findings from your assessment. You will usually be invited to attend for part of the meeting and may be able to bring a supporter, subject to the agency’s arrangements.

What will the panel consider? Members review the full assessment information rather than relying on a single interview. This can include:

• your reasons for wanting to foster and your understanding of the role;
• your ability to provide a safe, stable and nurturing home;
• your relationships, household circumstances and support network;
• your experience of caring for children or responding to challenging behaviour;
• the outcome of relevant checks, references and medical information;
• your preparation and training for fostering; and
• the age range, number of children and types of needs you may be able to care for.

The panel may ask questions to clarify information in the assessment. This is not normally a test of specialist knowledge. Questions are intended to help members understand your circumstances, your judgement and how you would respond to the practical and emotional demands of fostering. If something has changed since your assessment was written, tell your social worker and the panel rather than assuming it is unimportant.

How the meeting usually works

• The chair introduces the panel and explains how the meeting will proceed.
• Your assessing social worker summarises your application and assessment.
• Panel members ask you questions and give you an opportunity to add information or clarify points.
• You and your supporter, if permitted, leave while the panel discusses the evidence.
• The panel records its recommendation and the reasons for it.

Panel members may recommend approval, recommend that you are not approved, or defer the recommendation if further information or work is needed. A deferral does not automatically mean that your application will be refused; it means the panel needs specific points addressed before reaching a recommendation. The agency decision-maker then considers the panel’s recommendation and the wider evidence before making the formal decision. You should receive the outcome and reasons in writing, together with information about any representations or review process that applies if the decision is not to approve you.

How to prepare Read your assessment carefully and make a note of anything you would like corrected or explained. Think about practical examples that show how you manage stress, set boundaries, work with professionals and respond to a child’s individual needs. Be open about any concerns or changes in your circumstances. You are not expected to present yourself as perfect; panel members need an accurate understanding of your strengths, support needs and areas for further development.

Your local fostering team can explain the meeting arrangements, talk through the assessment with you and help you understand any questions before the panel date. If the panel asks for additional information or recommends further preparation, your social worker should explain what is required and what happens next.