A day in the life of Agency Panel Administrator Nicola

During the fostering application process, you will meet a friendly group of independent professionals who make up the Fostering Panel.

The Fostering Panel exists to assess potential foster carers before they are approved, ensuring they can provide a safe and stable environment for a vulnerable child or young person. Panel also carry out an annual review with our foster carers. Our Agency Panel Administrator Nicola has the important job of organising the Fostering Panel. We caught up with Nicola to find out more about what a typical working day for her involves…

Can you please tell us a bit about yourself?

My name is Nicola, and I’ve been working as an Agency Panel Administrator at Unity Foster Care since September 2023 and have been with the agency for nearly seven years. Outside work, I’m a mum of three, as well as a step-mum to my partner’s two daughters. 

How did you end up in your current role?

I ended up in my current position after moving to West Yorkshire with my partner. I’ve worked as an administrator since leaving school, for a variety of different sectors.

Please tell me what your current role involves.

My role primarily involves arranging Fostering Panels, as well as working closely with assessing social workers and foster carers to complete checks and references. I also assist with foster carer annual reviews, pulling all the relevant information together and ensuring all supporting documents are available to our Panel members. I send invites out to the applicants, arrange the agenda, and type the minutes on the day of Panel.

What should people know about Panel?

The Panel process is not as scary or daunting as some people may think. We have a great Panel team, and everyone is always made to feel relaxed when they enter the room or join us virtually.

How do you start your day?

My days are always busy, so getting organised in the morning is crucial. I check my emails first thing and then start my day, prioritising tasks based on importance. My days differ ever so slightly from one day to the next.

Best thing about your role?

The best thing about my role is having a great team around me.

Any advice for someone considering fostering?

If you are considering fostering, then give us a call! Our Recruitment Officer Gemma will be more than happy to give you a call back or arrange to come and see you and answer any queries you may have. Ask as many questions as you like and take the time to consider. If you feel you can give a child a loving home, then give us a call. You can even pop into our office and have a chat with us; we’ll get the kettle on!

What do you get up to in your spare time?

I like to go out on long walks. It’s great to get outdoors as a family, especially when we can have a barbeque and play games. My boys love to get out on the water with the paddle board, while I will generally soak up the sun! 

If you would like to find out more about our Fostering Panel, take a look at the Fostering Panel page on our website.

If you would like to find out more about our Fostering Panel, take a look at the Fostering Panel page on our website.

Could you make a difference to the lives of children and young people in your area?

Our friendly team are on hand to answer any questions you may have. To make a start on your application, call us on 0333 772 2333 or contact us online and we’ll be in touch.