Torbay Council
Independent Panel Member (Fostering)
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Independent Panel Member (Fostering)
Application Deadline: 10 July 2026 Department: Children’s Services Location: Torbay Council Compensation: £90 – £180 per day (plus travel expenses)
Independent Panel Member – Torbay Fostering Panel
About the Role
Torbay Council is seeking experienced individuals to join the Torbay Fostering Panel as Independent Panel Members. This role is open to:
- Foster carers (including those currently approved* by Torbay and their household members are ineligible)
- Former fostering households’ members
- Adults with experience of being fostered
- Birth parents of previously fostered children
- Professionals with relevant experience in childcare, social work, or welfare
Note: Current Torbay-approved foster carers or household members cannot apply.
The Fostering Panel meets once monthly (pre-set annual schedule). Not all meetings require attendance, but flexibility and availability for a full panel day are essential, as meetings may vary in duration (full-day or half-day). In addition to Panel days, one day’s worth of reading per meeting is required.
Panel members must:
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- Attend panels regularly
- Commit to annual Panel training days and appraisals
- Have a clear understanding of complex childcare cases (including emotional challenges)
- Display strong communication, listening, and assessment skills in written and verbal English
- Contribute with confidence in evaluating and articulating decisions
Fee: £90 per half-day, £180 per full day (plus travel costs payable).
Requirements
Personal Attributes & Skills
- Excellent listening and communication skills
- Ability to read, analyse, manage and interpret large volumes of complex or distressing information
- Clear judgements, confidence, and fluency in analysing written and verbal evidence
- Strong English language skills (both spoken and written)
Knowledge & Awareness
- Sensitivity to children’s needs when dealing with separation and loss
- Recognition of how diverse family dynamics contribute to well-being
- Basic understanding of Fostering Panel functions or willingness to learn
Essential Experience
- Personal experience of fostering or related circumstance, e.g:
- Fostered as a child/young adult
- Birth parent of a previously fostered child
- Professional experience (ideal but not mandatory) in childcare, social services, or similar work
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Key Responsibilities
✅ Maintain impartiality and professional conduct while evaluating cases ✅ Attach to regular panel meetings and read relevant reports ✅ Participate in annual training and performance reviews ✅ Provide decisions – presented in clear, compassionate, and unbiased discussions
Additional Requirements
✔ Enhanced DBS Check (including Barred List and Spent Sin Check) ✔ References required
Supporting Information
- For full details, go to: https://www.torbay.gov.uk/jobs/job-descriptions/independent-panel-member-fostering
- Interviews: 20 July 2026
- Enquiries: Email luminita.burtic@torbay.gov.uk or call 07824 301132
- No visa sponsorship for this role
Apply early – vacancies may close before 10 July 2026.
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