Social Worker - Fostering Panel Advisor Sanctuary Personal

Job Title: Locum Social Worker – Fostering Panel Advisor
Location: Croydon, UK
Salary: £TBC Hourly
Type: Ongoing – Full Time / Part Time
Reports to: Service Manager

This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled and proactive Social Worker to join the Fostering Service as a Fostering Panel Advisor
. In this pivotal role, you will support the agency’s Fostering Panel, guide key decision‑making processes, and ensure high standards of practice that shape positive futures for children and foster carers. Based in Croydon, you’ll benefit from working in a thriving, well‑connected area just outside central London.

Full Time or Part Time options offering flexibility to maintain a healthy work–life balance.

Career development opportunities
, gaining specialist experience within fostering and panel advisory work.

Supportive working environment with colleagues who value collaboration, inclusion, and shared learning.

Continuous professional development to strengthen your expertise and support your long‑term progression.

Autonomy and flexibility associated with locum work, giving you greater control over your career pathway.

Act as the agency’s Panel Advisor, supporting the Fostering Panel and the Agency Decision‑Making process.

Quality assure reports presented to panel and oversee non‑panel annual reviews.

Provide a communication link between the Panel and the Service, briefing the Service Manager and Agency Decision Maker on relevant matters.

Ensure statutory responsibilities are met in line with fostering regulations, national minimum standards, and local procedures.

Manage the Panel Administrator and oversee efficient administration of fostering panels.

Support the appointment, termination, and review of panel members.

Deliver induction programmes for new panel members and support panel development days with the Panel Chair.

Monitor and improve standards of social work practice across the fostering service.

Ensure that all paperwork submitted to panel is of a high standard and ready for consideration.

Contribute to effective and timely decision‑making in relation to children’s care planning.

Liaise with Children’s Services staff to ensure clarity regarding panel policies, processes, and expectations.

Facilitate and monitor foster carer reviews as required.

Communicate panel recommendations and decisions clearly to all relevant parties.

Collate and manage agency fostering statistics, reports, and updates.

Contribute to strategic planning and service development within the Fostering Service.

Respond to consultation papers and provide professional input on policy and practice changes.

Croydon offers the ideal balance of urban convenience and green open spaces. With excellent transport links, vibrant shopping districts, independent cafés, parks, and cultural venues, it provides a desirable setting both professionally and personally.

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