The matching process happens very quickly once a child needs a placement, but there is a structured approach to matching a child with a foster carer.
How Social Workers Find Available Carers
Social workers will contact the fostering service and ask for a list of available foster carers. The fostering service will then check the details of each carer to see if they have capacity to take a child. They will take into account the size of the foster carer’s household and the number and ages of their biological children. They will also consider the age range that the foster carer is approved to care for. The fostering service will also take into account the location of the foster carer’s home in order to find a carer that is local to where the child is.
The Factors That Shape a Match
Social workers will consider the child’s age, any special needs the child has, the child’s background and the type of home that the child needs. For example, a Foster Carer who has experience of managing children with Challenging Behaviour may be given priority to care for a child with complex needs. A child who is very young or who is very anxious may need a quiet home with a calm environment.
Your Role When a Placement Is Offered
You don’t have to accept a placement if you feel that it wouldn’t be suitable for you or your family. The social worker will explain the child’s situation to you and answer any questions that you may have. For Foster Care Barry, visit saferfostering.org.uk/foster-care-wales/barry.
What Information You Receive Beforehand
For planned placements you will receive a copy of the Placement Plan which sets out information about the child’s daily routine, any special dietary needs, school arrangements and any medical needs the child may have. You are entitled to ask for any further information that you require to keep the child safe.
Emergency Placements Work Differently
Emergency placements are different and may arrive at your home within hours. You will be given as much information as possible after the child has arrived. Ask as many questions as you feel are necessary to be able to keep the child safe whilst information is being collated.
Knowing how Foster Care Barry placements are arranged and how you are contacted in relation to placements will help you feel more confident in dealing with any call.
