Panel and ADM

There is no requirement in the Regulations to refer resignations, changes or terminations of approval to panel for a recommendation. However, the fostering service provider is required to take account of any recommendation made by the fostering panel if the matter is referred to them. This decision will be made by the Agency Decision Maker.

The fostering service must identify a senior member of staff (usually referred to as the decision maker) who will receive the panel’s recommendations and make decisions as required.

The decision maker is also responsible for deciding whether a person and their household remain suitable to foster, and whether the terms of approval remain suitable, following each review of the foster carer’s approval. 

The decision should be based on the written report of the review, taking account of any recommendation by the fostering panel (which must be provided on the occasion of the first review and may be provided for subsequent reviews) and any recommendation of the IRM.