Reaching your fostering panel is a significant milestone in your journey to becoming a foster carer. It often represents months of preparation, reflection and learning. At Family Fostering Partners, we understand that while this stage is exciting, it can also feel a little daunting – and that’s completely normal.

The fostering panel isn’t something to fear. It is a key part of a thorough, child-focused process designed to ensure the best possible outcomes for children and young people and to make sure you feel confident and fully prepared for the role ahead.

What Is a Fostering Panel?

A fostering panel is a formal meeting made up of experienced professionals. This may include:

• Qualified social workers
• Health and education specialists
• Agency representatives
• Experienced foster carers
• Individuals with care experience

Panels operate in line with the Fostering Services (England) Regulations 2011 and National Minimum Standards, ensuring that approvals are fair, consistent and centred around children’s welfare.

The panel reviews your assessment (sometimes called a Form F) and makes a recommendation about your approval. The final decision is then made by the Agency Decision Maker (ADM).

What Happens on the Day of Fostering Panel?

Understanding the format can ease nerves. While each agency may vary slightly, a typical fostering panel:

• Lasts around 45 minutes
• Is chaired by an independent panel chair
• Your assessing social worker will give a short summary of your assessment.
• Panel members confer decide on questions to ask either the assessing social worker or yourself.
• The Panel Chair will step out of the room, introduce themselves to you, inform you or panels questions and give you a moment to reflect.
• Panel members introduce themselves and ask the questions.
• Concludes with you stepping out while the panel discusses their recommendation. The panel chair will then inform you of the panel’s recommendation.

You won’t attend alone – your assessing social worker will be there to support you throughout.

It’s completely natural to feel nervous and many applicants do. By this stage, you’ve completed training, discussions and in-depth assessment, 

Should You Ask Questions at Your Fostering Panel?

You are not required to ask questions during your fostering panel. Many applicants simply respond to questions and thank the panel at the end.

However, if you would like to ask something, you absolutely can. In fact, asking thoughtful questions can demonstrate reflection and commitment to your development as a foster carer.

Here are some examples you might consider:

• Do you have any advice for me as I begin my fostering journey?
• Are there particular training areas you would recommend I prioritise?
• How can I best prepare for my first placement?
• What do you see as my key strengths as a foster carer?

These types of questions focus on growth, learning and child-centred practice which is exactly what fostering is about.

What Questions Do Fostering Panels Ask?

Every fostering panel is different, but common questions often explore:

• Your motivation to foster
• How you manage conflict or challenging behaviour
• Your support network
• How fostering may impact your birth children (if applicable)
• The types of placement you feel best suited to

Panel members are not trying to “catch you out.” Their role is to ensure safe, high-quality fostering provision and to confirm you are ready for the responsibility.

What Happens After the Fostering Panel?

The panel’s recommendation is sent to the Agency Decision Maker (ADM) who reviews the minutes of the panel, the form f assessment, and then makes a final decision.

Typically, the ADM decision is made within 7–14 working days, although many agencies confirm sooner. You will receive confirmation in writing.

Your assessing social worker will contact you as soon as a decision has been made.

You Should Feel Prepared – But It’s Okay to Feel Nervous

By the time you attend your fostering panel, you will have:

• Completed your Skills to Foster training
• Explored safeguarding, attachment and trauma-informed care
• Discussed allowances, matching, support and expectations
• Reflected deeply on your experiences and motivations

You should feel informed and prepared – but that doesn’t mean nerves won’t appear. Feeling anxious simply shows you care.

At Family Fostering Partners, we ensure you know exactly what to expect. We’ll explain the format, talk through possible questions, and make sure you feel ready. You won’t be walking into the room unsupported.

Support Doesn’t Stop After Approval

Approval at fostering panel isn’t the finish line, it’s the starting point.

Once approved, you’ll receive:

• Ongoing training and development
• Regular supervision
• Peer support groups
• 24/7 out-of-hours support
• Independent support through FosterTalk, offering practical advice, legal guidance and exclusive benefits

We remain by your side throughout your fostering journey.

FAQ: Fostering Panel

Is fostering panel scary?

It can feel formal, but panels are professional, respectful and supportive. Their focus is the welfare of children and your readiness to provide safe care.

Can I fail fostering panel?

In some rare cases, panel may defer a decision if they require more information. Your assessing social worker would guide you through any next steps.

Do I have to speak a lot?

No – you simply need to answer questions honestly and thoughtfully.

How long does fostering panel take?

Usually about 45 minutes.

Considering Becoming a Foster Carer?

If you’re thinking about fostering but feel unsure about what the fostering panel involves, we’re here to guide you through every step.

When you enquire with Family Fostering Partners, here’s what happens next:

1. An informal, no-obligation phone call to answer your questions
2. An information visit 
3. Clear guidance on the assessment process and timescales

There’s no pressure – just open, honest conversation.

If you’d like to find out more about becoming a foster carer with Family Fostering Partners, get in touch with our friendly team today. Your fostering journey could start with a simple conversation.