Status of foster careras must be improved

Foster carers must be “empowered and equipped” to improve the educational achievement of children in their care, according to a report published today.
 
The Fostering Network study says the skills and status of foster carers must be improved, they should be registered with the General Social Care Council and joint training should be organised with social workers and teachers.
 
Guidance that clarifies the authority of foster carers to make decisions with regard to the educational needs of the children they foster, is also required, the report suggests.
 
It argues placement instability, the low educational achievements of foster carers and young people leaving foster care too young all contribute to poor outcomes.
 
Improving the Educational Achievements of Looked-After Children from www.fostering.net