About Family Futures
Family Futures is an independent, not-for-profit adoption agency and therapy centre based in London. Rated Outstanding by Ofsted for five consecutive inspections, we specialise in supporting children who have experienced developmental trauma and attachment difficulties, alongside the families who care for them.
The role
As a Panel Member, you will play a vital role in considering adoption assessments, contributing to professional discussions, and making recommendations that promote the welfare, safety, and long-term wellbeing of children
We are seeking applicants who must be able to contribute to all Panel functions including:
· Read and analyse adoption assessments and supporting documentation in advance of meetings.
· Submit questions and observations ahead of panel meetings.
· Participate actively in panel discussions, contributing professional expertise and balanced judgment.
· Consider evidence presented and contribute torecommendations regarding adoption-related matters.
· Promote robust decision-making and constructive challengewithin panel discussions.
· Champion safeguarding, children's welfare, diversity,inclusion and anti-discriminatory practice.
· Help ensure that Family Futures' policies and proceduresremain child-centred and effective.
· Maintain strict confidentiality regarding all panel papersand discussions.
· Attend panel meetings consistently (typically a minimum ofsix meetings per year).
· Participate in annual training, induction and panel memberreviews.
About You
We are looking for a qualified and experienced Social Worker who can bring thoughtful analysis, sound professional judgment and a child-centred approach.
Essential Requirements
· A recognised Social Work qualification (e.g. CQSW, CSS,CSW or DipSW).
· Current registration with Social Work England.
· Professional and/or personal experience of:
Adoption and fostering;
Children looked after away from their birth family; and/or
Permanency planning for children.
· Knowledge of the impact of separation, loss, trauma and attachment disruption on children's development.
· Understanding of safeguarding responsibilities and children's welfare needs.
· Strong analytical skills and the ability to review complex information and identify key issues.
· Excellent communication and listening skills.
· Confidence to contribute views constructively and respectfully in a multidisciplinary panel setting.
· Commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion and anti-discriminatory practice.
· Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional integrity.
We would particularly welcome applicants who have:
· Experience of adoption services, fostering services or permanency planning.
· Experience of panel work, quality assurance or independent reviewing roles.
· An understanding of therapeutic approaches to supporting adopted and care-experienced children.
· Knowledge of the challenges and strengths of diverse family structures and identities.
Personal Qualities
You will be:
· Passionate about achieving the best possible outcomes forchildren and families.
· Respectful, inclusive and collaborative in your approach.
· Open-minded and able to consider a range of perspectives.
· Confident in expressing your views while listening to andvaluing the views of others.
· Committed to learning, reflection and continuous improvement.
· Supportive of Family Futures' values, vision and therapeutic approach.
Ready to apply?
For further discussion about the role and its responsibilities, you can use the contact details provided above and request a conversation with Sue Hughes, Assessment and Permanency Director.
Fees: £150 per day as Panel member
Ready to apply? Download your application pack and form below and return your form by email to us at hr@familyfutures.co.uk
Application packs are available in various formats, including email, large print, or by post. To request a specific format, please contact Ingrid Resnitschek, at ingrid@familyfutures.co.uk or by phone at 020 7354 4161.
