Five Rivers
Independent Panel Member

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As an Independent Panel Member, you will use your professional expertise to contribute to robust, child-focused decision making. Working alongside a multidisciplinary panel, you will provide independent scrutiny and constructive challenge when considering foster carer approvals, reviews and other fostering-related matters.
This opportunity is ideal for professionals who are passionate about safeguarding children and promoting high-quality fostering services. Your health knowledge and experience will help ensure children's health, wellbeing and developmental needs are fully considered within panel discussions.
About The Role
Our Fostering Panel meets on the first Wednesday of each month. Meetings are held either online or at our Harold Wood office, supporting fostering services across the London and East region.
Panel Members play an important role in maintaining high standards and ensuring that recommendations are informed, balanced and focused on achieving the best possible outcomes for children and families.
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
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Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
What You'll Bring
We are looking for someone who:
- Has a recognised health professional qualification and relevant professional experience
- Has knowledge of children's health, development and wellbeing
- Understands safeguarding responsibilities and the needs of vulnerable children and young people
- Can analyse complex information and contribute confidently to panel discussions
- Demonstrates sound professional judgement and the ability to offer constructive challenge
- Is committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion
- Has excellent communication and teamwork skills
Previous experience of fostering, adoption, children's services or panel work is desirable but not essential.
What We Offer
As an Independent Panel Member, you will:
- Play a key role in improving outcomes for children and young people
- Work alongside experienced professionals from a range of disciplines
- Contribute to the quality and effectiveness of fostering services
- Receive induction and ongoing support to fulfil the role effectively
- Be paid £225 per panel meeting attended


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Commitment Required
- Attendance at the Fostering Panel held on the first Wednesday of each month
- Review panel papers in advance of meetings
- Attendance may be in person at Harold Wood or online, depending on operational requirements
Recruitment Process
The Selection Process Will Include
- Formal interview
- Participation in a Fostering Young Recruiter Panel
Interview Panel
- Jeannette Elat Essoubat, Service Manager
- Mashuda Wahid
Interview dates will be confirmed following shortlisting.
Interested?
If you would like an informal conversation about the role, please contact Jeannette Elat Essoubat, Service Manager, London and East Fostering Service.
Join us and help ensure children are provided with safe, nurturing and supportive fostering arrangements where they can thrive.
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