Independent Reviewing Officer

Join to apply for the Independent Reviewing Officer role at Compass Community

The Review Meeting is central to the Review process. It is where matters arising from the Review reports can be properly explored. The deliberations of the Review Meeting and the contents of the Review Report inform the Independent Review Officer's recommendation regarding the Foster Carers’ continuing approval as a Foster Carer and their Terms of Approval.

• Critically read the Review paperwork sent prior to the Review Meeting.
• Identify salient areas to be discussed and any matters that require pre‑meeting exploration with relevant parties (via SSW/Line Manager).
• Formulate an agenda covering all pertinent areas for the Review Meeting.
• Chair the meeting in a facilitative, inclusive and rigorous manner.
• Draw out key matters explored during the Review Meeting.
• Make a substantiated and properly evidenced recommendation, drawing on the deliberation of the Review Meeting and the Review paperwork (using TSD Standards/Fostering Competencies).
• Complete a Report / Detailed Review Meeting Minutes ensuring all above items are covered.
• Where issues of professional practice arise regarding staff or carers’ capability, performance or conduct, bring these to the attention of the region’s Head of Fostering.

• Strengths of Foster Carers.
• Outstanding actions from the last Review.
• Significant changes since the last Review (employment, finances, house moves, health issues, household composition, impact of fostering).
• Emergency placements / exemptions in line with regulations.
• Issues emerging from updated statutory checks.
• Health & Safety / Risk assessments.
• Any gaps in meeting/maintaining standards or competencies.
• Complaints/Allegations.
• Training and Development.
• Communication / Recording.
• Any changes to Approval and evidence to support any disagreements.
• Additional support needs if a change of approval is being recommended.
• Future actions:
  • Referral to the Fostering Panel
  • Training and Development needs
  • Outstanding Health & Safety / Safe Care
  • Requirement for Re‑assessment

Compass is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We strive to bring together the most talented employees with diverse backgrounds, cultures, perspectives, and experiences to support our children and young people.