The functions of the fostering panel in respect of cases referred to it by the agency are:

• To consider each applicant for approval and to recommend whether or not a person is suitable to act as a foster carer
• Where it recommends approval of an application, to recommend the terms on which the approval is to be given
• To recommend whether or not a person remains suitable to act as a foster carer, and whether or not the terms of his/her approval remain appropriate:
  • On the first review carried out in accordance with the Fostering Services Regulation 29 (1) (herein after referred to as the regulation)
  • On the occasion of any other review when requested to do so by the agency in accordance with the regulation 29(5)
• To consider any case referred to it under regulation 28(8) or 29(9) of the Fostering Services Regulation 2011

Our fostering panel also:

• Advises on the procedures under which review in accordance with the regulation 29 are carried out by the agency and periodically monitors its effectiveness
• Oversees the conduct of assessments carried out by the agency
• Gives advice and makes recommendations on such other matters or cases referred to it by the agency