We know that becoming a foster carer is an exciting time however there are many new processes and ways of working to learn. The Fostering Service has put together a series of three minute briefings which are quick and easy to read and will give you the answers to many questions that you may have.

For more information see the approved foster carer web page for where to get advice by phone, the Emergency Duty Team, guidance and other support.

Support available

Contact details for the locality duty teams, Fostering Advice Line, Emergency Duty Team and information about other services that provide support for foster carers.

Self care

Why self care is important for foster carers, tips and advice.

Networking

A look at the team around the child and the team around the foster carer.

Supervising social workers

The role of, and a typical day in the life of a supervising social worker

Children's social workers

The role of, and a typical day in the life of a children's social worker.

Types of fostering

Includes task centred, permanence / long term, Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE), parent and child, family and friends carers and staying put.

Safer caring

Keeping fostered children and young people safe and ensuring safety and security of foster carers and their families.

The Fostering Family Finding Team

What to expect when the team contacts you about a potential placement.

SCAYT+

Promoting positive mental health and emotional wellbeing for children and young people who are looked after or adopted.

Recording, reporting and allegations

The different types of reports or allegations, how they are dealt with, how to keep children safe and protect yourself and family members from allegations.

Minor injuries

Recording and reporting minor injuries.

Finance

Fostering allowance and paying Tax as a foster carer.

Bridging

Bridging to prospective adopters or permanent foster carers or when children return to live with family members.

Independent Reviewing Officers

The role of the IRO including CLA reviews.

Foster carer reviews

What to expect from foster carer reviews.

Virtual School

Find out about support from the Virtual School for Children Looked After.

Children's Social Care

The vision of Children's Social Care and the teams within this service.

Child permanence reports

How you will be asked to contribute to a child permanence report.