Training and Development

As a foster carer you will have already completed some basic training and induction. Islington fostering service offers an Induction group for new foster carers and foster carers transfering in, The fostering service also offers a range of specialist support groups to help foster carers support each other.

It is important for you to continue to attend training and support groups as long as you are fostering to be fully equipped to deal with the many situations you may face. The support and training you will be offered will help you to become more confident.

This support and development continues throughout your fostering career, making fostering a positive experience for both you and the child/young person.

All new foster carers must complete a workbook which shows evidence of their ability to meet the Training, Support and Development Standards for Foster Care, Short Break Carers or for Family and Friends Foster Carers within 12 months of being approved (or within 18 months for Connected Persons foster carers (family and friends).

Two foster carers’ in the same house can contribute to the same portfolio.

Training will be geared towards each carer’s needs.

The standards cover the main areas of the foster care role and what you should know, understand and be able to do. They are based on the National Child Care Induction Standards for workers in children’s social care, so you will have a similar induction to other professionals working with children and young people.

This evidence will begin to be gathered before you are approved, through the Skills to Foster course and will continue after you are approved. All evidence will be recorded in a training and development portfolio.

There will be some standard training (core) that you must attend. There will also be further training which may be identified by you or your Supervising Social Worker through your supervision meetings and through your annual review.

Your personal development plan will set out how you will be supported with training and development. Your Supervising Social Worker will also discuss any help or support needed by your own children.

If your support carer cannot help you with child care so that you can attend training, please discuss this with your social worker so that child care can be arranged. There is also On line training available and a lot of relevant information is available on the internet.

The fostering service committed to providing tailored training and support to all its foster carers that is based on equal opportunities and anti-discriminatory practice. You also have the opportunity to attend the Islington childrens safeguarding board training with a range of other people who are interested in the wellbeing of children.

Training also comes in many forms, you may attend courses but there may also be some on-line resources/courses, books or workshops that may also be helpful.

Your Supervising Social Worker will provide you with a training programme. If you are interested in any courses, speak to them and complete the training form in order to attend.