3.8.9 Training of Foster Carers

SCOPE OF THIS CHAPTER

This procedure applies to all approved foster carers and should be read in conjunction with Supervision of Foster Carers Procedure. Fosters Carers must complete mandatory training courses as outlined in Section 2 of this procedure, but will also have access to a customised programme of training to assist them when caring for children with complex needs.

AMENDMENT

This chapter was amended in December 2017 to reflect current terminology and should be read in its entirety.

1. Foster Carer Training

All foster carers must have completed the initial training through Preparation Groups, preferably before approval. In the case of relatives being assessed as foster carers, there may be factors preventing this occurring before their approval.

See Assessment and Approval of Foster Carers Procedure.

The Learning and Development Team in partnership with the Fostering Service will provide a customised programme of training for foster carers designed to develop their skills. All foster carers will be required to attend those courses identified as mandatory including the National Standards for Foster Carers and will be encouraged to attend optional training courses that may be appropriate to their situation. A list of the additional training courses is available from the Foster Carer Programme.

Foster carers are to receive the appropriate training on the storage, handling and prescribing handling of medicines. Please refer to the First Aid, Home Remedies and Prescribed Medicines Guidance.

Foster carers will also receive guidance on promoting the child's health needs and receive appropriate training to provide appropriate care where caring for children with complex needs.

Each foster carer will have a portfolio of their training, and certificates will be presented in relation to training completed.

2. Training and Development

The Learning and Development Team with the Fostering Service will develop a training and development plan for each foster carer, which will be agreed at their annual review, and discussed regularly as part of their supervision. Booking for the training is available via the LSCP Website and the plan is sent to all Supervising Social Workers.

See Supervision of Foster Carers Procedure.

The Foster Carers are responsible in conjunction with their Supervising Social Workers for their own personal development. Where foster carers are resistant to training, the supervising social worker will explore possible reasons for this. If there are practical reasons, for example distance or childcare problems, every attempt will be made to find solutions.

Where foster carers are resistant to training, the supervising social worker will explore possible reasons for this. If there are practical reasons, for example distance or childcare problems, every attempt will be made to find solutions.

All foster carers must complete 3 mandatory training sessions in their first year:

  1. First Aid;
  2. Safeguarding;
  3. Safecare;

Then in the 2nd year, all foster carers must complete 2 mandatory training sessions:

  1. Behaviour Management;
  2. Diversity.
Please refer to the Foster Care Handbook for further information.