The Fostering Panel: What to Expect
The Fostering Panel is an important part of the journey to becoming an approved foster carer.
It is a supportive and transparent process designed to make sure every child receives the safest and most suitable home.
This page explains what the panel does, who is involved, and what you can expect on the day.
What is the Fostering Panel?
The Fostering Panel is an independent group who review your fostering assessment and make a recommendation
about your approval as a foster carer.
Their role is to:
- Promote the safety and wellbeing of children
- Provide an impartial view of your assessment
- Ensure fostering decisions meet statutory regulations
- Support high standards across all fostering services
The final decision is made by the Agency Decision Maker (ADM), but the panel’s recommendation forms an
essential part of the approval process.
Who sits on the Fostering Panel?
Panel members come from diverse backgrounds, bringing a wide range of professional and personal experience.
A typical panel may include:
- Social work professionals
- Health or education specialists
- Experienced foster carers
- Individuals with personal experience of the care system
- Independent members from the local community
- A panel chair and panel advisor
This mix ensures balanced and thoughtful decision-making.
When you will attend panel
You will be invited to attend panel once your Form F Assessment is complete and has been quality checked.
You will read your completed assessment prior to attending panel and have the opportunity to make comments.
Your assessing social worker will help you prepare and make sure you understand what will happen on the day.
Most people attend panel:
- In person at our offices, or
- Online through a secure video meeting platform
We will make any reasonable adjustments you need to support your comfort and accessibility.
What happens at the meeting?
Here is a simple step-by-step outline of what to expect:
Welcome and introductions
The panel chair will introduce everyone and explain how the meeting will work.
Discussion about your assessment
Panel members may ask you questions about your motivations, strengths, and experience.
These questions help confirm your readiness and understanding of fostering.
Opportunity to speak openly
You can share anything you want the panel to know. You may talk about:
- The support you have
- The types of fostering you are interested in
- Any learning you gained during training or assessment
This is your chance to highlight your commitment and preparation.
Private panel discussion
You and your social worker will step out while the panel considers the information.
Panel recommendation
You will be invited back in to hear the panel’s recommendation and next steps.
The final decision will then be confirmed by the Agency Decision Maker.
How long does it take?
Most panel meetings last between 45 and 90 minutes, depending on the complexity of the assessment.
We aim to make the experience clear, respectful, and as relaxed as possible.
How to prepare for panel
To help you feel confident, you might find it useful to:
- Read through your Form F Assessment
- Reflect on what you learned during Skills to Foster training
- Think about the age groups and types of fostering that feel right for you
- Talk with your assessing social worker about any concerns
- Plan any adjustments you may need for accessibility
Remember: panel is supportive, not a test.
What happens after panel?
After the panel meeting:
- The recommendation is shared with the Agency Decision Maker.
- You will receive the ADM’s decision in writing.
- If you are approved, you will be allocated a supervising social worker who will support you as a new foster carer.
- You will join our fostering community and begin the matching process.
We continue to provide training, guidance and support throughout your fostering journey.
Frequently asked questions about the Fostering Panel
Will I be judged at panel?
No. The panel’s role is to ensure safe, high-quality care.
Their questions are supportive and focused on putting children first.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes. You may bring a partner, or a friend or family member for emotional support if needed.
What if the panel disagrees with part of my assessment?
Panels occasionally ask for more information or further learning.
We will guide you through any next steps.
We are here to support you
If you have questions about the Fostering Panel or would like help preparing, our fostering team is ready to talk with you.