Casual Fostering Panel Chair

International Sponsorship – this role is not open to international sponsorship 1x Casual Independent Fostering Panel Chair & 1x Casual Independent Adoption panel chair We are looking for 1 additional independent fostering Panel Chair and 1 additional independent adoption Panel Chair to support our existing dedicated team of chairs. Although the role would be to predominantly chair the respective panel, there may be occasions where you would be asked to chair an either fostering/ adoption panels. To apply you must be registered as a social worker and must be independent of Lancashire's children's services (or have left over 12 months ago). We currently hold 5 x fostering panels a month and are looking for a qualified social worker with experience of chairing complex meetings to join our team as a fostering panel chair. At present you would be required once or twice a month as we have 2 other panel chairs, however this may be more based on need. This is a casual position with fees paid per panel. We currently pay our panel chairs £533.02 for each full days panel they attend and this includes the fee for pre reading and signing off the minutes. If a panel finishes before 1pm this is classed as a half day and the fee payable for that is £266.51. We currently hold 3 Adoption panels a month you would be required 1-2 times a month to chair with 1 other panel chair available. Adoption panels are currently held face to face split between Preston and Blackpool. At present our fostering panels are hybrid with these pre-dominantly held virtually using the MICROSOFT TEAMS platform and one panel held face to face. This may be subject to change in the future with an increased request for face-to-face panels. Therefore, there is a requirement to be available across both delivery platforms. Some computer skills are essential for virtual panels and there will be a requirement to chair. This role also includes some travel for training and development sessions. The panel team are friendly, professional and dedicated to improving the panel service for all. We would welcome your suggestions to assist us on our journey. Please refer to the job description and person specification for further information. Closing Date: 31st August 2026 Interviews: will be face to face at County Hall Preston, date TBC If you need any more information please feel free to email me at [email protected] Please ensure you have uploaded and attached a supporting statement to evidence how you meet the criteria for the role. The panel may be unable to shortlist you for interview without this evidence. The post you are applying for is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended in 2013). If successful you will be required to apply to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) for a 'disclosure'. Further information can be found on the 'Our Recruitment Process' tab. You must be registered (SWE) to be appointed as a Social Worker or have applied to register with the Social Care Council. For Social Worker/Care Manager positions where non social worker qualifications are accepted, registration is not required, and you will be appointed as a Care Manager. We reserve the right to close down a vacancy early, before the closing date, if we receive sufficient applications. Job Description/Person Specification