Independent Chair of Falkirk Adoption, Fostering & Kinship Panel

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As independent Chair to Falkirk’s Fostering, Adoption & Kinship Panel you will hold a recognised Social Work qualification and demonstrate considerable professional experience in adoption, fostering and kinship processes, including the purpose and function of the Panel. You will have a knowledge of childcare legislation relating to the care and protection of children, the provision of substitute care arrangements and permanence planning for children and young people.

The Panel Chair will have the authority and competence to chair a Panel, ensuring that all business is covered and that the panel operates in accordance with regulations and the policies and procedures of Falkirk Council. The Panel Chair will prepare sufficiently in advance of Panel, identify key issues and ensure the case is adequate for submission.

The Panel Chair will have an awareness of the diversity of different kinds of families and their potential for meeting children needs. A commitment to the valuing of diversity in relation to issues of ethnicity, religion, gender, disability and sexuality is essential. The Panel Chair will facilitate the active participation of Panel members and the careful consideration of cases presented, with well evidenced recommendations. Also, to ensure that clear and accurate minutes are available within procedural timescales and to liaise with the Agency Decision Maker (ADM) and other senior managers as required.

The Panel Chair will participate in Panel business meetings and the annual appraisal of panel members. The Panel Chair will facilitate their own training and development needs for this role. A commitment to keeping children within their own family or community where this is possible is essential. Also, a commitment to fostering, kinship care and adoption where this is determined to be in the child’s best interest through safeguarding and promoting children’s welfare in care.

The role will be for two years. Office space can be made available when required but it is anticipated that the post holder will attend an in-person Panel on a weekly basis on a Wednesday. Preparation for Panel and the actioning of Panel minutes can be undertaken from home therefore access to email and remote video access are essential. The Chair will be supported by the Locality Manager, Children’s Services and have access to administrative support for the purpose of the Panel.

If you are the successful candidate, you will be required to gain/maintain PVG scheme membership.

Remuneration is set at £350 per day for a minimum of 45 days per year, plus relevant travel and subsistence expenses in line with Falkirk Council policies.

Interviews will be held on 13^th February 2026.

If you would like to discuss the position informally please contact jo.logie@falkirk.gov.uk to arrange a phone call with the Chief Social Work Officer.