At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a panel to shape fostering decisions and support children in care.
- Company: Wirral Council, dedicated to community improvement and support.
- Benefits: Earn £120 per session, receive training, and make a real difference.
- Other info: Flexible commitment with professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Use your lived experience to impact the lives of children and families.
- Qualifications: Care-experienced young adults with a passion for equality and inclusion.
There has never been a more exciting time to join Wirral Council. We’ve got ambitious targets to meet and to achieve everything we have promised to our residents, we need people who are ready to deliver the very best for our communities and show how they can #BeTheDifference. Our vision is to secure the best possible future for our residents, defined by the community prosperity we create and supported by our excellent people and services. If you strive to #BeTheDifference and want to be at the heart of our change and improvement journey, then this could be the perfect job for you.
Fees are £120 per session which includes reading and preparation time. Are you a care-experienced young person who wants to make a difference to the lives of children and young people in care? Wirral Council Children's Services is seeking an Independent Fostering Panel Member to join our Fostering Panel. This is a unique opportunity to use your lived experience, insight, and perspective to help shape important decisions about fostering and ensure children and young people receive the care and support they need to thrive. Panels are held 3 times per month at Wallasey Town Hall on a Thursday, and members are expected to attend approximately one panel per six weeks with flexibility, depending on availability and panel business.
About the Role:
- As an Independent Panel Member, you will be part of a multi-disciplinary panel that considers:
- Applications from prospective foster carers
- Reviews of approved foster carers
- Long-term matches between children and foster carers
- Changes to approval status
Your contribution will help ensure that decisions are child-centred, inclusive, and focused on achieving the best possible outcomes for children and young people.
About the Candidate:
- We are particularly interested in hearing from:
- Care-experienced young adults, who can listen carefully, consider information objectively, and contribute confidently to discussions.
- Those who can work collaboratively and respectfully within a professional panel setting.
- Individuals committed to equality, diversity, inclusion, and anti-discriminatory practice.
- Knowledge of fostering, safeguarding, or children's services would be beneficial, but is not essential, as full training will be provided.
Why Join Wirral Council’s Fostering Panel?
- Make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families.
- Be part of a supportive, values-led team.
- Contribute your expertise to a vital public service.
- Receive professional development and recognition for your contribution.
This is a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families across Wirral.
If you would like to discuss this role, please contact: lisagreenhalghyoung@wirral.gov.uk
This post requires a DBS check.
Applications will be accepted until midnight on the closing date. We reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than the specified date should we receive sufficient applications. Applications can only be accepted through the Jobs page following registration. Forms received via the post will not be processed. All applicants invited to interview must evidence their right to work in the UK.
Independent Fostering Panel Member employer: Wirral Jobs Internal
Joining Wirral Council means becoming part of a dynamic team dedicated to making a real difference in the community. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing, professional development, and an inclusive culture, we offer a supportive environment where your contributions are valued. Enjoy benefits like flexible working arrangements, generous leave, and a commitment to recognising and rewarding your efforts as you help shape the future of education for children and young people in our area.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Independent Fostering Panel Member
✨Connect with Local Charities
Get in touch with local charities and community centres — they're often looking for volunteers in social work. This not only gets your foot in the door but also helps you build that all-important network in the social work community.
✨Show Up at Community Events
Attend community events, workshops, or local forums focused on social issues. It's a great way to meet people who are already working in social work and can offer insights, advice, or even opportunities at organisations like Wirral Jobs Internal.
✨Leverage Online Platforms
Check out platforms like VolunteerMatch or local Facebook groups dedicated to volunteering. Many organisations post their volunteer needs there, and it’s a prime way to connect with those who share your passion for social work.
✨Speak Directly to Organisations
Don’t shy away from approaching organisations you admire, like Wirral Jobs Internal. Pop in for a chat or drop them an email expressing your interest in volunteering — sometimes, it’s the direct approach that stands out!
We think you need these skills to ace Independent Fostering Panel Member
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:When writing your application, share your enthusiasm for social work. Talk about why you want to volunteer in this field and any personal experiences that have motivated you. It's all about demonstrating your genuine commitment to helping others, as we all know that passion can make a huge difference.
Highlight Relevant Skills and Experiences:Make sure to showcase any relevant skills or experiences you have, like working with vulnerable populations or strong communication abilities. Mention your ability to handle challenging situations and your empathy—these are key traits in social work, and they should shine through in your application.
Explain Your Availability:Since this is a volunteer role, be transparent about when you can commit. Whether you’re available for a few hours a week or more flexible, let them know your schedule. This helps Wirral Jobs Internal understand how you might fit into their needs and ensures you’re on the same page from the get-go.
Reflection on Learning Opportunities:In your application, reflect on what you’re hoping to learn from this volunteer experience. Discuss your desire to gain hands-on insight into social work, develop your skills, or understand the community better. This is a great way to show that you’re not just looking to give, but you’re also eager to grow, and that’s something we value at StudySmarter.
How to prepare for a job interview at Wirral Jobs Internal
✨Showcase Your Compassion
For a social work volunteer role, it's all about demonstrating your empathy and understanding. Be ready to share personal stories or experiences where you’ve helped others or made a positive impact. This can show Wirral Jobs Internal how you relate to different communities.
✨Know the Key Issues
Familiarise yourself with the current social issues relevant to the community Wirral Jobs Internal serves. Whether it’s homelessness, mental health, or child welfare, understanding these challenges will not only impress during the interview but can also help you articulate how you can contribute to solutions.
✨Be Prepared for Scenario Questions
Social work often involves handling real-life situations. Expect questions that present you with hypothetical scenarios, asking how you would respond. Practising your answers to these can help us articulate our thought processes and decision-making skills effectively.
✨Demonstrate Your Willingness to Learn
As a volunteer, showcasing your eagerness to gain experience is crucial. Mention instances where you've actively sought out learning opportunities, whether through previous roles, workshops or courses related to social work. This highlights your commitment and readiness to grow with Wirral Jobs Internal.
