Foster carers ‘need better training’

A framework for training foster carers to bring them in line
with the child care workforce is demanded by the Fostering Network
in its manifesto published this week.

It says that, while pre-approval training is standard, there is no
common framework for later training, which makes provision and
quality of training “patchy and expensive”.

The organisation is also calling for national minimum allowances
for the care of fostered children to cover the full cost of
fostering to carers.

It also wants a fee structure that includes realistic retainers
between placements and 24-hour support systems to help foster
carers and their families.

• A Manifesto for Change is available from 020 7620 6400