The House of Commons Education Committee in England is currently engaged in an Inquiry into Fostering and is looking at a range of issues including:
- recruitment and retention of foster carers;
- stability of foster care placements;
- foster care for young people with specific or challenging needs and the involvement of young people in their care.
- The Inquiry will also consider financial recompense for foster carers and the impact of Staying Put.
FosterTalk has prepared a written submission for the Inquiry based on information from FosterTalk members and Fosterline users and will be presenting their evidence to the Committee on 1st February 2017.
FosterTalk recommends that a comprehensive national survey of foster carers is carried out to identify resources, needs and gaps in provision together with a survey of fees and allowances; that the voice of the foster carer and the looked after child is given greater emphasis in care planning and that placement decisions should not be made for financial reasons.
You can read FosterTalk’s submission to the Inquiry by clicking here.
Go to our forum to discuss some of the issues raised.