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.
Additional Information:
- You will be required to attend an interview.
- Training and support will be provided to ensure you are confident in your role.
- 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.
Please note that in accordance with the Council’s policy, employees who are in a formal redeployment situation will be considered in the first instance for all vacancies. It is Council policy not to re-appoint any employee who has left under the terms of the Council's Early Voluntary Retirement (EVR) scheme or who have left with a voluntary severance (VS) package, unless in exceptional circumstances.
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. Details of required documents can be found by clicking the link at the bottom of the Jobs page.
The job description and other supporting documents will not be accessible once the vacancy closing date has passed so if a copy is required you should download it now. We do not accept applications or CVs from recruitment agencies, unless otherwise stated. Therefore, any candidates submitted via a recruitment agency will not be considered for this role.
How to apply: Please apply online by clicking the link below.
Independent Fostering Panel Member employer: Wirral Jobs
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 competitive benefits, flexible working arrangements, and the opportunity to play a pivotal role in improving educational outcomes for children and young people in a vibrant location.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Independent Fostering Panel Member
✨Get Involved in Community Events
Dive headfirst into community events and social work fairs in your area. These are great opportunities to connect with potential employers like Wirral Jobs, grab some insider info, and showcase your passion for social work. Plus, meeting people face-to-face can really make you stand out!
✨Join Social Work Networks
Tap into social work networks and online communities, like local charities and organisations. Engaging in discussions or volunteering can help you build a strong reputation and could lead to part-time roles just like the one at Wirral Jobs. The connections you make could be the key to landing your next opportunity!
✨Make Your Passion Shine
When approaching part-time roles, be sure to highlight your passion for social issues in conversations and informal chats. Bring your experiences to life through storytelling – this can resonate well with organisations looking for someone who genuinely cares about making a difference!
✨Keep an Eye on Local Job Boards
Part-time roles in social work might not always be advertised in the usual places. Keep checking local job boards or community centres for openings, and don't hesitate to apply directly through Wirral Jobs's website – we love seeing proactive candidates who take the initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace Independent Fostering Panel Member
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let your passion for social work shine through. Talk about why you're drawn to this field and how you've been involved in community service or support roles. We want to see your commitment and the heart you bring to the table!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to spotlight any hands-on experience you have! Whether it's internships, volunteering, or relevant coursework, detail how your past experiences relate to the role at Wirral Jobs. We love seeing candidates who have practical skills and a real understanding of social issues.
Certificates and Training Matter:If you've got any relevant certifications or training specific to social work (like safeguarding training or counselling qualifications), don’t forget to include these in your CV! These details can set you apart and show us you’re serious about your professional development.
Be Flexible with Your Availability:Since this is a part-time role, explain your availability clearly in your application. Let us know when you can start and how many hours you’re looking to work. Being upfront about your schedule will help us see how you fit into the team at Wirral Jobs.
How to prepare for a job interview at Wirral Jobs
✨Show Your Passion for Helping Others
In social work, it's all about your commitment to making a difference. Be ready to share specific experiences that highlight your passion for helping others, whether that's through volunteering, placements, or personal stories. We want to see that genuine drive during your chat with Wirral Jobs.
✨Know Your Social Work Theories
You might be quizzed on social work theories or models that inform your practice, like the person-in-environment approach. Brush up on these concepts and be prepared to discuss how you'd apply them in a practical setting. This could be a game changer in your interview for a Independent Fostering Panel Member at Wirral Jobs.
✨Flexibility and Availability are Key
As you're going for a part-time role, highlight your flexibility and how it would fit with the organisation's needs. Have examples ready that demonstrate your availability for various shifts or urgent situations—that's just gold for a social work role.
✨Prepare for a Situation-Based Discussion
Expect scenario-based questions where you'll need to demonstrate how you'd handle specific situations with clients or stakeholders. Think of a couple of real-life scenarios you've encountered and articulate your thought process. This will show Wirral Jobs that you're ready to hit the ground running in the Independent Fostering Panel Member role.
