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- Tasks: Lead quality assurance and support social work teams in fostering practices.
- Company: Join Southwark Council, transforming lives of children in care with a child-first ethos.
- Benefits: Part-time hours, opportunity for impactful work, and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Be a change-maker in fostering, influencing outcomes and improving children's lives.
- Qualifications: Social Work Qualification or equivalent and registration with Social Work England required.
- Other info: 21.6 hours per week, permanent contract, enhanced DBS needed.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Lead with Purpose. Shape the Future of Fostering. Be the change every child deserves. At Southwark Council, we are transforming the lives of children in care. Central to this mission is our Independent Fostering Panel - driving standards, shaping outcomes and ensuring every child finds a safe, nurturing home.
We are looking to recruit a Fostering Panel Advisor on a part-time contract (21.6 hours per week) to be at the forefront of this vision, influencing strategic practice and delivering excellence where it matters most.
About the Role:
As the Fostering Panel Advisor, you will take on a strategic, non-case-holding role within our fostering service. Reporting to the Service Manager and working alongside the Panel Chair, you will lead quality assurance, staff development and regulatory compliance efforts. You will support social work teams in presenting high-quality, child-centred cases to the Fostering Panel and provide expert advice to senior leaders, including the Agency Decision Maker and Head of Service.
This role also involves:
- Providing expert advice and panel oversight to uphold Fostering Regulations and National Minimum Standards
- Leading strategic improvements based on panel outcomes to influence best practices across the service
- Line managing the Panel Administrator and enhancing the panel process
- Designing and delivering professional development initiatives grounded in research and innovation
Your work will directly influence how we support carers and children, ensuring high standards, clarity of purpose, and impactful outcomes.
About You:
You are an experienced and knowledgeable professional with an extensive understanding of fostering legislation, child development, and care standards. You are confident advising at a senior level and skilled in translating complex guidance into meaningful practice improvements.
We’re looking for someone who:
- Has authoritative knowledge of Fostering Regulations, legislation, and national standards
- Holds a strong background in quality assurance and staff development within children’s social care
- Communicates with clarity and inspiration, engaging practitioners, panel members, and senior leaders alike
- Is strategically minded, with proven ability to identify themes, implement change, and influence outcomes at scale
- Is passionate about improving the lives of children and ensuring their voices are at the heart of decision-making
About Us:
At Southwark, our fostering service is recognised for its high standards, innovation, and child-first ethos. We are a diverse, forward-thinking borough that values creativity, equity, and integrity. You will join a high-performing team committed to continuous learning and development, supported by strong leadership and a shared sense of purpose.
If you’re driven by impact and ready to lead change, we invite you to join us and help shape the future of fostering in Southwark.
Contact Information:
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Sophie James via email at sophie.james@southwark.gov.uk
Additional Information:
- Social Work Qualification or equivalent is required
- Registration with Social Work England is required
- Hours of work: 21.6 hours per week
- Type of contract: Part-time, permanent
- Enhanced DBS required
The closing date is given as a guide. We reserve the right to close this vacancy once a sufficient number of applications has been received. We strongly advise you to complete your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Fostering Panel Advisor employer: SOUTHWARK COUNCIL-1
Contact Detail:
SOUTHWARK COUNCIL-1 Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Fostering Panel Advisor
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the fostering and social care sector. Attend relevant conferences or workshops to meet people who can provide insights into the role and potentially refer you to opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest Fostering Regulations and National Minimum Standards. Being well-versed in these areas will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment to the role during discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Engage with current trends and challenges in children's social care. This knowledge will help you articulate how you can contribute to strategic improvements and influence best practices effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience in quality assurance and staff development. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've implemented change and improved outcomes in previous roles, as this will resonate with the panel.
We think you need these skills to ace Fostering Panel Advisor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and requirements of the Fostering Panel Advisor position. Highlight key skills and experiences that align with the role.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your experience in fostering legislation, quality assurance, and staff development. Use specific examples that demonstrate your expertise and achievements in these areas.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for improving the lives of children and your strategic mindset. Address how your background aligns with the mission of Southwark Council and the specific needs of the role.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. Ensure that your application is clear, concise, and professionally presented.
How to prepare for a job interview at SOUTHWARK COUNCIL-1
✨Demonstrate Your Knowledge of Fostering Regulations
Make sure to brush up on your understanding of fostering legislation and national standards. Be prepared to discuss how these regulations influence your approach to quality assurance and staff development.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Mindset
During the interview, highlight your ability to identify themes and implement changes that positively impact outcomes. Share specific examples from your past experiences where you successfully influenced practice improvements.
✨Communicate with Clarity and Inspiration
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and engagingly. Remember, you’ll be advising senior leaders and practitioners, so demonstrating effective communication skills is crucial.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in real-world situations. Think about potential challenges you might face in the role and how you would address them, particularly in relation to child-centred practices.
