Introduction and Preparation for Foster Placements

Scope of this chapter

This chapter is currently under review.

1. Introduction

Foster carers will need information about the child, the child's needs and history, the plan for the child, the parent's knowledge of the arrangements and the degree of involvement in the plan and the child's understanding of the plan. It is the responsibility of the child's social worker to ensure that, as far as is practicable, foster carers are provided with this information prior to placement.
The information is necessary in order to assist the child or young person to reach her or his potential and develop into a healthy, happy adult; this includes information on the child's health and education, racial, cultural and religious identity and background and details of any abuse or neglect the child or young person may have suffered. The aim of the placement - and what is expected on the part of the parent, the local authority and the foster carer - must be understood by all parties if the placement is likely to succeed.

2. Preparation and Introduction to Foster Carers

Wherever possible, once a placement has been identified and approved, a Placement Planning Meeting should be held and take place before the placement of the child. Where this is not possible because of the urgency of the situation, the Planning Meeting should be held within 5 working days.

Wherever possible, the child's parents should participate in the planning meeting. Parents can provide information about the child's day-to-day routines, capabilities, habits, fears, likes and dislikes. This information is essential if the foster carer is to provide continuity of care for the child and help the child to settle in. The expected role of the parent in the day-to-day care for the child should be clarified.
Wherever possible, the child should visit the foster home before the placement and the social worker should bring a parent and/or previous carers to share in the introduction.
Financial arrangements for the placement should also be settled. The fostering social worker will ensure that the foster carer has the necessary equipment to care for the child. The social worker may need to obtain authorisation for any expenditure arising from the child's individual needs.
Consideration of any additional allowances which may be payable upon placement should take place at the pre-placement stage. The details should then be confirmed at the Placement Planning Meeting.

The relevant form should be forwarded to the Area Manager (with responsibility for Child Care) with a copy sent to the designated social worker to place on the child's case record. A copy should also be placed on the foster carer's case record and a copy sent to the foster carer.

Last Updated: May 29, 2024