CoramBAAF Conversations EP 48 | Effective Fostering Panels author interview with Elaine Dibben

Effective Fostering Panels is available to buy in our bookshop: https://corambaaf.org.uk/books/effective-fostering-panels In this short interview, Publications Manager Jo Francis sits down with Independent Consultant, Elaine Dibben to discuss the revised and updated Effective Fostering Panels published April 2026. We discuss how fostering panels have changed since the book’s first edition in 2003 due to evolving policy and practice level; particularly in relation to kinship care. Equally, how the book remains a crucial resource to support panels facing high turnover of members and the importance of maintaining consistency in recommendations. Elaine also shares her expert insight on the role of fostering panels in today’s fostering services, the crucial safeguarding role they play, and top tips for panel members, chairs and advisers. Listen to the author interview for details on: What is the enduring appeal of the book Effective Fostering Panels? • Do fostering panels still have an important role? What role do panels play in safeguarding? What should panel members remember when taking part? What should social workers keep in mind when attending panels? • What has been updated in the latest edition of the book? How has the approach to kinship care changed? Why is guidance like this book important for agencies? Why is wider training and networking important for panel members? About the book The revised and updated effective fostering panels is for panel members and social workers. It is a guide that brings together all the information you need to know about regulations, standards and inspections concerning fostering panels. It also sets out good practice to agencies in the operation of effective panels, relevant to all fostering service providers. Although the fostering regulations apply in England only, agencies in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland will find much of this practice applicable to their work. This revised edition covers recent changes in practice around areas such as virtual panels, and includes a fully updated and expanded chapter on considering kinship foster carers at the panel.