Jackie Edwards, Professional Advisor

Nationwide Association of Fostering Providers (NAFP)

Jackie qualified as a social worker in 1988 with a CQSW and Diploma in Professional Social Work, and in 2006 completed a postgraduate Diploma in Management Studies at Coventry University. Jackie also has an MA in Child Care Law and Practice and is an accredited practice teacher and PQ Assessor.

Jackie’s previous experience has included managing a local authority fostering team, working in family placement in the voluntary sector for Barnardo’s, and setting up the Children’s Advice and Representation Service in Staffordshire for the NSPCC. Jackie has extensive experience in child protection work and in the children’s rights arena. She was also a member of the Inspection Unit Advisory Panel and Chair of the Complaints Review Panel in a large local authority.

Jackie has worked in the independent fostering sector for over 12 years playing a significant role in the growth and development of two major independent fostering agencies (Foster Care Associates and Pathway Care Midlands) where she established extensive personal and professional networks within the public, private and voluntary sectors. Jackie was a founder member of the newly established Nationwide Association of Fostering Providers (NAFP) and is currently its Professional Advisor.

Jackie is keen to promote positive working relationships between commissioners and providers and to develop new ways of working in partnership to acheive good outcomes for looked after children.