Adoption Panel Social Worker

We are seeking an experienced and insightful Social Worker to join our Adoption Panel as an independent Panel Member. Contribute your professional expertise to ensuring the best possible outcomes for children requiring permanent families.

Family Futures is an independent, not-for-profit adoption agency and therapy centre based in London. Rated Outstanding by Ofsted for five consecutive inspections, we specialise in supporting children who have experienced developmental trauma and attachment difficulties, alongside the families who care for them.

As a Panel Member, you will play a vital role in considering adoption assessments, contributing to professional discussions, and making recommendations that promote the welfare, safety, and long-term wellbeing of children

We are seeking applicants who must be able to contribute to all Panel functions including:

• Read and analyse adoption assessments and supporting documentation in advance of meetings.
• Submit questions and observations ahead of panel meetings.
• Participate actively in panel discussions, contributing professional expertise and balanced judgment.
• Consider evidence presented and contribute recommendations regarding adoption-related matters.
• Promote robust decision-making and constructive challenge within panel discussions.
• Champion safeguarding, children's welfare, diversity, inclusion and anti-discriminatory practice.
• Help ensure that Family Futures' policies and procedures remain child-centred and effective.
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding all panel papers and discussions.
• Attend panel meetings consistently (typically a minimum of six meetings per year).
• Participate in annual training, induction and panel member reviews.

We are looking for a qualified and experienced Social Worker who can bring thoughtful analysis, sound professional judgment and a child-centred approach.

• A recognised Social Work qualification (e.g. CQSW, CSS,CSW or DipSW).
• Current registration with Social Work England.
• Professional and/or personal experience of:
• Adoption and fostering;
• Children looked after away from their birth family; and/or
• Permanency planning for children.
• Knowledge of the impact of separation, loss, trauma and attachment disruption on children's development.
• Understanding of safeguarding responsibilities and children's welfare needs.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to review complex information and identify key issues.
• Excellent communication and listening skills.
• Confidence to contribute views constructively and respectfully in a multidisciplinary panel setting.
• Commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion and anti-discriminatory practice.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional integrity.

• Experience of adoption services, fostering services or permanency planning.
• Experience of panel work, quality assurance or independent reviewing roles.
• An understanding of therapeutic approaches to supporting adopted and care-experienced children.
• Knowledge of the challenges and strengths of diverse family structures and identities.

• Passionate about achieving the best possible outcomes for children and families.
• Respectful, inclusive and collaborative in your approach.
• Open-minded and able to consider a range of perspectives.
• Confident in expressing your views while listening to and valuing the views of others.
• Committed to learning, reflection and continuous improvement.
• Supportive of Family Futures' values, vision and therapeutic approach.

Fees: £150 per day as Panel member

Voluntary Adoption Agency registration number: SC462984