Panel

In accordance with the Fostering Services Regulations 2002, Nexus Fostering has established fostering panels whose overriding objectives are to promote and safeguard the welfare of children in foster care. We have Panels that meet in London and in Birmingham. They have a balance of gender, ethnicity and qualifications and reflect our commitment to bring together individuals from different backgrounds. Each panel has access to specialist legal and medical advice as required.
London Panel

The chair has more than 25 years experience of working with children and young people in a variety of roles. The vice chair previously worked for Ofsted, where his role included reviewing the structure and operation of fostering panels, carrying out visits to foster care placements and attending child protection strategy meetings. Panel members include foster carers, an education advisor for looked-after children, and social workers with extensive experience of working with young people who are approaching independence and leaving care.
Birmingham Panel

The chair is a social work team manager in a Children and Families service in the Midlands. The vice chair was a social worker for 23 years and an executive of The British Association of Social Workers. Panel members include a foster carer, an education advisor, Local Authority social workers, a social worker working with young offenders and a therapist.

The Panels make recommendations in relation to new applications, annual reviews, terminations of approvals and complaints made by service users. They also consider policy and development issues including long term and permanent placements.