Bill Lowdell

A dedicated professional with almost 25 years of experience as an Independent Fostering Panel Member. As an adult care leaver with personal experience in both residential and foster care, I provide a unique and vital perspective to the panel process. My career is defined by a commitment to the welfare of children and young people, evidenced through long-term roles in secondary and primary education, sessional outreach, and the mentoring of care-experienced students.

I work effectively as part of a team or on my own initiative, bringing a patient, friendly, and outgoing nature to all professional environments.

Independent Fostering Panel Member at Affinity Fostering (2023-01 – Present)

Independent Fostering Panel Member providing insights based on background as an adult care leaver.

• Act as an independent member, providing essential insights based on background as an adult care leaver
• Review and analyse complex assessment reports and agency reviews to determine the suitability of prospective foster carers
• Undertake sessional outreach and mentoring work directly with young people in the care system

Independent Fostering Panel Member at Lighthouse Fostering (2020-01 – Present)

Independent Fostering Panel Member providing insights based on background as an adult care leaver.

• Act as an independent member, providing essential insights based on background as an adult care leaver
• Review and analyse complex assessment reports and agency reviews to determine the suitability of prospective foster carers
• Undertake sessional outreach and mentoring work directly with young people in the care system

Independent Fostering Panel Member at Compass Fostering (formerly Moments Fostering) (2010-01 – 2026-12)

Independent Fostering Panel Member providing insights based on background as an adult care leaver.

• Act as an independent member, providing essential insights based on background as an adult care leaver
• Review and analyse complex assessment reports and agency reviews to determine the suitability of prospective foster carers
• Undertake sessional outreach and mentoring work directly with young people in the care system

Independent Fostering Panel Member at Ethelbert Fostering Services (2002-01 – 2015-12)

Independent Fostering Panel Member providing insights based on background as an adult care leaver.

• Act as an independent member, providing essential insights based on background as an adult care leaver
• Review and analyse complex assessment reports and agency reviews to determine the suitability of prospective foster carers
• Undertake sessional outreach and mentoring work directly with young people in the care system

Web & Digital Communications Officer / Youth Mentor at The Charles Dickens School, Broadstairs (2013-01 – 2016-12)

Specialised mentorship and digital communications role supporting care-experienced students.

• Mentored care-experienced children and students in Years 12 and 13 within the secondary school environment, providing both personal support and vocational guidance
• Assisted and advised students in all aspects of practical media, including photography, video filming, and editing, to foster confidence and technical skill
• Managed the school's digital presence and social media pages while maintaining all statutory requirements

Sports Instructor / Teacher at St. Teresa's R.C. School (via Kent County Council) (2000-01 – 2012-12)

Primary education sports instructor and teacher with activity coordination responsibilities.

• Dedicated twelve years to teaching sports and team games to children in Years 3 through 6
• Organised school events and led nine separate field trips, ensuring a safe and engaging environment for students
• Provided guidance to staff and governors regarding the school's digital strategy and website

Freelance Website & Graphic Designer at Self-Employed (1999-01 – Present)

Freelance web and graphic design services for small to medium-sized businesses.

• Provide website design, photography, and digital solutions for small to medium-sized businesses

Website Developer / Graphic Designer at Educational Life Magazine CIC, Broadstairs (2017-01 – 2017-12)

Magazine design and digital platform management.

• Handled magazine design, photography, and digital platform management

CSE in English, Maths, Geography, Audio Visual Arts – King Ethelberts School, Birchington

Canterbury College - Electronics course.