Setting

Foster Care Associates (North East)

19 Portland Terrace Jesmond Newcastle upon Tyne Tyne & Wear NE2 1QQ

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Commission for Social Care Inspection

Launched in April 2004, the Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) is the single inspectorate for social care in England.

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Commission for Social Care Inspection

The Commission combines the work formerly done by the Social Services Inspectorate (SSI), the SSI/Audit Commission Joint Review Team and the National Care Standards Commission.

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The role of CSCI is to:

• Promote improvement in social care • Inspect all social care - for adults and children - in the public, private and voluntary sectors • Publish annual reports to Parliament on the performance of social care and on the state of the social care market • Inspect and assess ‘Value for Money’ of council social services • Hold performance statistics on social care • Publish the ‘star ratings’ for council social services • Register and inspect services against national standards • Host the Children’s Rights Director role.

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Inspection Methods & Findings

SECTION B of this report summarises key findings and evidence from this inspection. The following 4-point scale is used to indicate the extent to which standards have been met or not met by placing the assessed level alongside the phrase "Standard met?"

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The 4-point scale ranges from:

4 - Standard Exceeded (Commendable) 3 - Standard Met (No Shortfalls) 2 - Standard Almost Met (Minor Shortfalls) 1 - Standard Not Met (Major Shortfalls) 'O' or blank in the 'Standard met?' box denotes standard not assessed on this occasion. '9' in the 'Standard met?' box denotes standard not applicable. 'X' is used where a percentage value or numerical value is not applicable. Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 1

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Address

19 Portland Terrace, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne & Wear, NE2 1QQ

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Date of latest registration certificate

Date of last inspection 6/1/04 Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 2 Date of Inspection Visit 6th December 2004 ID Code

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Date of latest registration certificate

Name of Inspector 1 Dennis Bradley 074426

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Date of latest registration certificate

Name of Inspector 2 Glynis Gaffney 074449

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inspections and bring a different

perspective to the inspection process. Name of Specialist (e.g.

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Name of Establishment Representative at

the time of inspection Matthew Horton Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 3

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D.3. Provider’s agreement

Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 4

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

Independent and local authority fostering services which fall within the jurisdiction of the Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) are subject to inspection, to establish if the service is meeting the National Minimum Standards for Fostering Services and the requirements of the Care Standards Act 2000, the Fostering Services Regulations 2002 and the Children Act 1989 as amended.

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

This document summarises the inspection findings of the CSCI in respect of Foster Care Associates (North East). The inspection findings relate to the National Minimum Standards for Fostering Services published by the Secretary of State under sections 23 and 49 of the Care Standards Act 2000, for independent and local authority fostering services respectively.

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

The Fostering Services Regulations 2002 are secondary legislation, with which a service provider must comply. Service providers are expected to comply fully with the National Minimum Standards. The National Minimum standards will form the basis for judgements by the CSCI in relation to independent fostering agencies regarding registration, the imposition and variation of registration conditions and any enforcement action, and in relation to local authority fostering services regarding notices to the local authority and reports to the Secretary of State under section 47 of the Care Standards Act 2000. The report follows the format of the National Minimum Standards and the numbering shown in the report corresponds to that of the standards.

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

The report will show the following: • Inspection methods used • Key findings and evidence • Overall ratings in relation to the standards • Compliance with the Regulations • Notifications to the Local Authority and Reports to the Secretary of State • Required actions on the part of the provider • Recommended good practice • Summary of the findings • Report of the Lay Assessor (where relevant) • Providers response and proposed action plan to address findings

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INSPECTION VISITS

Inspections will be undertaken in line with the agreed regulatory framework with additional visits as required. This is in accordance with the provisions of the Care Standards Act 2000. The following inspection methods have been used in the production of this report. The report represents the inspector's findings from the evidence found at the specified inspection dates. Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 5 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SERVICES PROVIDED. Foster Care Associates (North East) is part of the national organisation Foster Care Associates. FCA (NE) provides family placements to children and young people in the North East of England. The main office is situated in Newcastle upon Tyne and there were sub- branches in Alnwick, Darlington and Seaton Burn. At the time of the inspection a fourth sub- branch was being opened in Middlesbrough. FCA (NE) has continued to grow since the last inspection. At the time of the inspection, FCA (NE) was offering a family placement service

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INSPECTION VISITS

to 151 children and young people. The Agency offers a range of services to meet the needs of placing authorities, for example emergency, parent and child, short-term, bridging, assessment and long-term placements. FCA (NE) also specialises in offering placements to children who may challenge the service.

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INSPECTION VISITS

FCA (NE) provides a multi-disciplinary approach to working with children and young people, which amongst other things, offers opportunities for foster carers and social work staff to access therapy and educational support services. FCA (NE) also provides children and young people with access to group work and activities provided by a team of resource workers. Following an assessment of the branch and its sub-offices the Agency had recently achieved the Investors In Children award. Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 6

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Inspector’s Summary

(This is an overview of the inspector’s findings, which includes good practice, quality issues, areas to be addressed or developed and any other concerns.)

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Inspector’s Summary

This is the report of an announced inspection. The purpose of the inspection is: a) to assess progress made towards meeting requirements and recommendations (where applicable) from the previous inspection b) to assess the service against the National Minimum Standards.

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This Standard was met

The Fostering Service has a written Statement of Purpose and a Children’s Guide. The Children’s Guide ‘File of Facts’ was in a form that will appeal to young people and it was also in a format for younger children.

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This Standard was met

Fitness to Carry on or Manage a Fostering Service. Both of these standards were met. The Director had appropriate skills and experience and exercised effective leadership. A Criminal Records Bureau check had recently been carried out in relation to the Director.

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Management of the Fostering Service

Both of these standards were met. Arrangements were in place to monitor the operation of the Service. The national FCA Quality Assurance Team regularly monitors the activities of the Agency. Staff were clear about their roles and lines of accountability. An Assistant Director provides cover in the Director’s absence.

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Securing and Promoting Welfare

7 of these 9 standards were met and 2 were almost met. The assessment process for new foster carers is comprehensive. There was evidence that the specific needs of children and young people are given consideration when foster placements are arranged. However, decisions about the appropriateness of placements should be made by a qualified social worker. Agency staff and foster carers supported children and young people, where appropriate, to maintain family contacts and friendships. There was ample evidence that children and young peoples’ opinions were sought about issues that were likely to affect them. In addition to a national forum for children and young people the Agency had set up 3 local forums. The Agency had recently been awarded Investors In Children accreditation. The Agency provides children and young people with regular newsletters. FCA(NE) provides staff, foster carers and children with access to

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Securing and Promoting Welfare

specialist educational and therapy staff. The Education Team provides booster sessions to young people who have been identified as underachieving. Training is available for foster Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 7 carers regarding their role and responsibilities in preparing young people for independent living. The promotion of young peoples health was taken seriously by the Agency. However, there were delays in some placing authority social workers providing relevant information regarding children and young people placed with foster carers.

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Securing and Promoting Welfare

Recruiting, Checking, Managing, Supporting and Training Staff and Foster Carers. 8 of these 9 standards were met and 1 was nearly met. The agency provides good support to its staff and foster carers. Professional staff working for the Agency were appropriately qualified and experienced. Staff had regular team meetings and a formal system of supervision was in place for all social work staff. A system was in place to provide regular supervision to foster carers. Training programmes were in place for staff and foster carers and these are reviewed annually. Procedures were in place covering the assessment, approval and review of foster carers and these were implemented effectively. All foster carers are required to attend a course of training prior to their approval and post-approval training includes a core curriculum that all carers are expected to attend. FCA(NE) obtained the ‘Investors in People’ award in 2002. Staff interviewed demonstrated

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Securing and Promoting Welfare

a positive commitment to the work undertaken by the Agency. The Agency recruits a range of carers and had suitable arrangements in place to ensure that there was an adequate number of experienced and qualified staff. There were clear recruitment and selection procedures for staff but appropriate checks had not always been carried out.

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Records

Both of these standards were met. There were written policies regarding case recording and what information should be held on children’s and foster carer files. Appropriate records were maintained in respect of children although there were delays in foster carers receiving appropriate documentation. Post- approval training for carers included the course ‘Helping Children Make Sense Of Their Past’.

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Fitness of Premises for use as a Fostering Service

This standard was met. The premises used by the Agency were adequate for the operation of the Service and were well equipped. The Agency has its main office in Newcastle upon Tyne and sub-offices in Alnwick, Darlington, Middlesbrough and Seaton Burn.

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Financial Requirements

1 of these standards was not inspected and the other 2 were met. Arrangements were in place to ensure that the financial processes/systems of the Agency are properly operated and maintained. There was a written policy on fostering allowances and details of the current allowances are provided to carers annually. Foster carers confirmed that payments were made promptly. FCA has its own Quality Assurance Division.

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Fostering Panels

This standard was met in full. The Agency’s Fostering Panel was observed to work thoroughly and effectively. The Panel provides a rigorous quality assurance function in relation to the assessment and review of foster carers. Criminal Record Bureau checks had been carried out in respect of all panel members.

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Short Term Breaks

This standard was not applicable. Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 8

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Family and Friends as Carers

This standard was not applicable. Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 9

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(Local Authority Fostering Services Only)

The following statutory Reports or Notifications are to be made under the Care Standards Act as a result of the findings of this inspection:

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(Local Authority Fostering Services Only)

NO Report to the Secretary of State under section 47(3) of the Care Standards Act 2000 that the Commission considers the Local Authority's fostering service satisfies the regulatory requirements:

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(Local Authority Fostering Services Only)

NO Notice to the Local Authority under section 47(5) of the Care Standards Act 2000 of failure(s) to satisfy regulatory requirements in their fostering service which are not substantial, and specifying the action the Commission considers the Authority should take to remedy the failure(s), informing the Secretary of State of that Notice: NO Report to the Secretary of State under section 47(4)(a) of the Care Standards Act of a failure by a Local Authority fostering service to satisfy regulatory requirements which is not considered substantial:

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(Local Authority Fostering Services Only)

NO Report to the Secretary of State under section 47(1) of the Care Standards Act 2000 of substantial failure to satisfy regulatory requirements by a Local Authority fostering service:

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The grounds for the above Report or Notice are:

Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 10

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Implementation of Statutory Requirements from Last Inspection

Requirements from last Inspection visit fully actioned? YES

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

Identified below are areas not addressed from the last inspection report which indicate a non-compliance with the Care Standards Act 2000 and Fostering Services Regulations 2002. No. Regulation Standard Required actions Timescale for action

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Action is being taken by the Commission for Social Care Inspection to monitor

compliance with the above requirements. Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 11

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registration are listed below, with the inspector's assessment of compliance from

the evidence at the time of this inspection.

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Date

Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 12

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS IDENTIFIED DURING THIS INSPECTION

Action Plan: The appropriate Officer of the Local Authority or the Registered Person (as applicable) is requested to provide the Commission with an Action Plan, which indicates how requirements are to be addressed. This action plan will be made available on request to the Area Office.

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

Identified below are areas addressed in the main body of the report which indicate non- compliance with the Care Standards Act 2000, the Children Act 1989, the Fostering Services Regulations 2002, or the National Minimum Standards for Fostering Services. The Authority or Registered Person(s) is/are required to comply within the given time scales in order to comply with the Regulatory Requirements for fostering services. No. Regulation Standard * Requirement Timescale for action

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

1 34 FS8 Schedule 7 to the Children Act 1989 prescribes a usual fostering limit of three children. A person may exceed the usual fostering limit if the children concerned are all siblings with respect to each other. A person may exceed the usual fostering limit if he is exempted from it by the local authority within whose area he lives.

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

The Agency must ensure that an exemption is obtained from the relevant local authority prior to any foster carer exceeding the usual fostering limit of three children. 25/4/05 Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 13 2 5, 7 & 20 FS15 1. All staff personnel records must contain the information following information, as specified in Schedule 1 of the Fostering Services Regulations: • Positive proof of identity including a recent photograph; • Two written references, including a reference from the person’s most recent employer; • Documentary evidence of any relevant qualification.

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

2. Ensure that telephone enquiries are made to follow up written references and that records of these enquiries are included in the person’s personnel file.

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

3. Ensure that, where a person has previously worked with children or vulnerable adults, so far as reasonably practicable verification of the reason why the employment or position ended is obtained. Maintain a record of the outcome of such checks.

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

4. Ensure that Criminal Record Bureau (CRB) checks are carried out by the Agency prior to new staff commencing work in or for the Fostering Service.

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

5. Put in place suitable arrangements to ensure that CRB checks, in respect of all people working in or for the Agency, are renewed every three years. 30/5/05

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

25/4/05 Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 14

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

Identified below are areas addressed in the main body of the report which relate to the National Minimum Standards and are seen as good practice issues which should be considered for implementation by the Authority or Registered Person(s). No. Refer to Standard * Recommendation Action

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

1 FS8 Foster Placement Agreements should clearly refer to the elements of matching taken into consideration when agreeing the placement and the action required to compensate for identified gaps.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

2 FS8 In line with the Agency’s Placements Policy, ensure that decisions about the most appropriate placements for children and young people are made by a qualified social worker.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

Ensure that when placements are made outside of the age, numbers and categories for which the foster carer has been approved by the Agency, this is referred to the next Fostering Panel meeting and the Agency Decision Maker for approval.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

3 FS12 Ensure that, if full details of the health needs and history of a young person are not available before placement, a high priority is given to ensuring that the information is obtained and passed to the foster carer once the placement is made.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

4 FS15 Schedule 1 to the Fostering Services Regulations 2002 stipulates that the information required in respect of persons seeking to carry on, manage or work for the purposes of a fostering service should include a full employment history, and a satisfactory written explanation of any gaps in a person’s employment. In order to comply with this, the employment histories of applicants for positions within the Agency should specify the month, as well as the year, in which periods of employment began and ended.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

* Note: You may refer to the relevant standard in the remainder of the report by omitting the 2-letter prefix e.g FS10 refers to Standard 10. Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 15

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

The following inspection methods have been used in the production of this report Number of Inspector days spent 12

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

Survey of placing authorities YES Foster carer survey YES Foster children survey YES Checks with other organisations and Individuals YES • Directors of Social services NO • Child protection officer YES • Specialist advisor (s) NO • Local Foster Care Association NO Tracking Individual welfare arrangements YES • Interview with children YES • Interview with foster carers YES • Interview with agency staff YES • Contact with parents NO • Contact with supervising social workers YES • Examination of files YES Individual interview with manager YES Information from provider YES Individual interviews with key staff YES Group discussion with staff NO Interview with panel chair YES Observation of foster carer training YES Observation of foster panel YES Inspection of policy/practice documents YES Inspection of records YES Interview with individual child YES

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

Date of Inspection 6/12/04 Time of Inspection 9.30 Duration Of Inspection (hrs) 103 Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 16 The following pages summarise the key findings and evidence from this inspection, together with the CSCI assessment of the extent to which the National Minimum Standards have been met. The following scale is used to indicate the extent to which standards have been met or not met by placing the assessed level alongside the phrase "Standard met?"

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

The scale ranges from: 4 - Standard Exceeded (Commendable) 3 - Standard Met (No Shortfalls) 2 - Standard Almost Met (Minor Shortfalls) 1 - Standard Not Met (Major Shortfalls)

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

"0" in the "Standard met?" box denotes standard not assessed on this occasion. "9" in the "Standard met?" box denotes standard not applicable. “X” is used where a percentage value or numerical value is not applicable. Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 17

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The intended outcome for the following standard is:

• There is clear statement of the aims and objectives of the fostering service and the fostering service ensures that they meet those aims and objectives.

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There is a clear statement of the aims and objectives of the fostering service and of

what facilities and services they provide. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Statement of Purpose for Foster Care Associates was informative, easy to understand and well written. A supplement to this Statement included information about Foster Care Associates North East (FCA (NE)).

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There is a clear statement of the aims and objectives of the fostering service and of

The children’s guide to the Agency, the ‘File of Facts’, is clearly designed to appeal to young people, whilst also being both ‘user friendly’ and informative. A version of this had been prepared for younger children. The Director advised that there were no plans to make the ‘File of Facts’ available in different formats.

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There is a clear statement of the aims and objectives of the fostering service and of

30 children and young people responded to a questionnaire issued by the Commission. 26 indicated that they had been given information telling them about the Agency, 4 indicted that they had not. Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 18

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The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• The fostering service is provided and managed by those with the appropriate

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work efficiently and effectively and have the necessary knowledge and experience of

childcare and fostering to do so in a professional manner. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Director of FCA (NE) had a relevant social work qualification and a Diploma in Management Studies. He also had appropriate significant experience of working in children’s services at a senior level and had been part of the management team at FCA(NE) for three years first as Assistant Director and, for 12 months, as Deputy Director.

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work efficiently and effectively and have the necessary knowledge and experience of

It was evident that the Director exercised effective leadership in the course of his duties and promoted an ethos where staff were encouraged to be adaptable and resourceful. All of the staff interviewed confirmed that the Director and his management team were approachable and supportive.

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Any persons carrying on or managing the fostering service are suitable people to run

a business concerned with safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 There was evidence that records had been kept of checks and references that had been obtained and their outcomes. The Director had recently undergone a Criminal Records Bureau check. Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 19

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The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• The fostering service is managed ethically and efficiently, delivering a good quality foster care service and avoiding confusion and conflicts of role.

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There are clear procedures for monitoring and controlling the activities of the

fostering service and ensuring quality performance. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 There was evidence that the Director had a clear understanding of the operation of the Agency. ‘In house’ arrangements were in place to monitor and control the Agency’s activities and the quality of its performance. In addition the FCA Quality Assurance Department also monitored the activities of the Agency.

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There are clear procedures for monitoring and controlling the activities of the

Although there was evidence of a degree of flexibility a scheme of the delegated roles and responsibilities of the management team and members of the staff group was in place. There were also job descriptions for each post. Staff interviewed confirmed that in general there were established lines of communication and accountability between management, staff and carers. Action had been taken to improve the communication between the Placements Team and social work teams. Financial procedures were in place.

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There are clear procedures for monitoring and controlling the activities of the

FCA has a Corporate Prospectus. The Director advised that details of the amounts to be paid to foster carers and for other services, such as therapeutic assessments, would be made available to purchasers of the Service on request.

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There are clear procedures for monitoring and controlling the activities of the

Number of statutory notifications made to CSCI in last 12 months: X

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There are clear procedures for monitoring and controlling the activities of the

Death of a child placed with foster parents. 0

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Referral to Secretary of State of a person working for the service as

unsuitable to work with children. Serious illness or accident of a child. 0 Outbreak of serious infectious disease at a foster home. 0 Actual or suspected involvement of a child in prostitution. 1

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Serious incident relating to a foster child involving calling the police to a

foster home. Serious complaint about a foster parent. 2 Initiation of child protection enquiry involving a child. 3

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Serious incident relating to a foster child involving calling the police to a

Number of complaints made to CSCI about the agency in the past 12 months: 1 Number of the above complaints which were substantiated: X Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 20

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Standard 5 (5.1 - 5.4)

The fostering service is managed effectively and efficiently. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Director had a clearly defined job description and did not hold a similar position within any other organisation. Staff interviewed demonstrated a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities. There were two Assistant Directors. Arrangements were in place for one of the Assistant Directors to manage the Service in the Director’s absence. Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 21

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The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

• The fostering service promotes and safeguards the child/young person's physical, mental and emotional welfare.

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The fostering service makes available foster carers who provide a safe, healthy and

nurturing environment. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The standard of accommodation in the foster carer homes visited was satisfactory. Foster carers homes are inspected as part of their initial assessment and at each annual review. A health and safety checklist is completed this includes a vehicle check and an insurance and MOT check. This checklist was being revised. FCA(NE) expects that each foster child will be allocated their own bedroom accommodation, unless there are agreed reasons for not doing so.

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The fostering service makes available foster carers who provide a safe, healthy and

The Foster Carers’ Handbook contained reference to FCA’s Health and Safety Policy and it is the Agency’s policy to ensure that all foster carers receive training that includes a health and safety component. The training programme for approved foster carers included a two- day health and safety course. Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 22

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The fostering service ensures that children and young people, and their families, are

provided with foster care services which value diversity and promote equality. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Agency had a ‘Valuing Diversity’ Policy and an Equal Opportunities Policy. The FCA Placement Policy includes a commitment to reviewing emergency placements within six weeks and identifying a more appropriate placement where this is in the best interests of the child. The Foster Carer Handbook included a commitment to ensuring that children and their families, are provided with services that promote equality and meet their racial, cultural, religious and linguistic needs. Prospective foster carers’ attitudes to issues of diversity are covered as part of their assessment. Preparatory training for carers covered the principles of valuing diversity and this was also included in the core post-approval training programme.

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The fostering service ensures that children and young people, and their families, are

There was evidence that the Agency had provided support to one carer, to help them meet the religious, cultural and ethnic needs of a group of siblings placed with them. This included the provision of an interpreter. However, in order to meet the needs of these children, the carers also had to rely on support from their own network of friends and contacts.

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The fostering service ensures that children and young people, and their families, are

One of the targets included in the Agency’s Marketing Development Plan is to recruit ethnic minority carers.

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The fostering service ensures that children and young people, and their families, are

Those children and young people spoken to, confirmed that their foster carers encouraged and supported them pursue their interests and hobbies. This was also evident during the visits to foster carers’ homes. Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 23

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carers only if they represent appropriate matches for a child for whom a local

authority is seeking a carer. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 There was evidence that staff at FCA(NE) tried hard to ensure that children and young people were carefully matched with foster carers who were capable of meeting their needs. A member of staff in the Placements Team said that over 50% of referrals by local authorities were not accepted because appropriate matches could not be made. It was confirmed that supervising social workers, foster carers and their families, were usually consulted and provided with relevant information throughout the matching process. It was evident that where practicable, planned introductions were arranged between the child to be placed and the foster carer.

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carers only if they represent appropriate matches for a child for whom a local

However, there was evidence that, on occasion, matching took place without an agency social worker being involved in the decision-making. This was contrary to the Agency’s own Placements Policy and related procedures. Action had been taken to address this matter. There was also evidence that the placing authority social worker for one child had not been consulted about, or informed of, the placement of other children with the carer.

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carers only if they represent appropriate matches for a child for whom a local

There was evidence that, sometimes, foster carers had children placed with them where this was not consistent with the ages or number of children they had been approved to care for. There were also delays in exemptions, or changes, to the carer’s approval being agreed. In addition, there were three foster carers who had more than the usual limit of three foster children placed with them. In one case, the reason for placing more than three children with the carer was not consistent with The Children Act 1989 guidance regarding family placements or with the Agency’s Placements Policy. None of the local authorities where the children were placed had exempted the carers from the usual fostering limit.

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carers only if they represent appropriate matches for a child for whom a local

There were examples where limited information about a child or young person had been obtained prior to the placement commencing, particularly in relation to emergency placements. This could make the task of identifying appropriate carers for a child more difficult. However, of the 35 foster carers who completed a questionnaire, 31 indicated that they were adequately informed about the backgrounds of children placed with them.

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carers only if they represent appropriate matches for a child for whom a local

Although the Agency had made efforts to improve the information recorded in foster placement agreements, matching considerations were not always clearly recorded. Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 24

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The fostering service protects each child or young person from all forms of abuse,

neglect, exploitation and deprivation. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 There was evidence available that the Agency had suitable arrangements in place to safeguard children and young people. Preparatory and post approval training for foster carers covered child protection issues and safe caring. Child Protection training was part of the core post-approval training provided to foster carers. Foster carers are given a copy of the NFCA ‘Safe Caring’ guidance document and prepare a safe caring policy for their own household. The Foster Carer Handbook contains guidance on bullying and how it should be addressed. A session on ‘Bullying Issues’ was included in the training programme for carers. An external consultant also provided training to staff on this subject. A Missing Child Procedure was available for staff and carers and the Carers Handbook clearly states that the use of corporal punishment is not acceptable. All of the foster carers who completed a

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The fostering service protects each child or young person from all forms of abuse,

questionnaire confirmed that the Agency had made clear to them what punishments were acceptable. Staff and foster carers are expected to attend training in Non-Violent Crisis Intervention.

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The fostering service protects each child or young person from all forms of abuse,

In their responses to a questionnaire: all the placing authority social workers confirmed that they considered the children placed with FCA(NE) to be safe, 59 indicated that they thought the foster carer was looking after the child ‘very well, 7 indicated ‘quite well’ and 1 ‘ok’ – other options were ‘quite bad’ and ‘very bad’; 25 of the 30 children confirmed that they had been told how to make a complaint about how they were being looked after, if they needed to; 35 of the 36 foster carers confirmed that the Agency had given them information about how they could complain on a child’s behalf.

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encouraged to maintain and develop family contacts and friendships as set out in

her/his care plan and/or foster placement agreement. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 There was evidence that, where appropriate, Agency staff and foster carers encouraged and supported children and young people to maintain family contacts and friendships. The Foster Carers Handbook contains clear guidance regarding how staff and carers should support foster children to maintain and develop their family contacts and this is also covered in the preparatory training for foster carers. The Agency provides venues for contact to take place as well as staff to provide supervised contact where necessary. Foster carers interviewed confirmed that they were clear about the contact arrangements for the children and young people placed with them. Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 25

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others significant to the child, are sought over all issues that are likely to affect their

daily life and their future. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 4 The Agency had a range of arrangements in place to ensure that children and young people were consulted about the Service and issues that might affect their daily life and future. These included: • Providing foster carers with clear guidance regarding what the Agency expects in respect of listening and responding to children, this is also covered in the preparatory training for carers. In their response to a questionnaire 23 children indicated that their foster carers ‘often’ asked them for their opinions and ideas, the other 7 indicated ‘sometimes’. 22 children confirmed that the Agency had asked their opinion about their foster carers; • Children’s forums, and ‘children who foster’ groups, had been set up in each area covered by the Agency and consideration was being given to setting up a forum for children under 9. Despite being activity based some children and young people were

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others significant to the child, are sought over all issues that are likely to affect their

reluctant to attend these forums. However, staff also organise a range of activities for children that provide a more informal opportunity for them to raise any issues or concerns. The Resource Team regularly consults children regarding the work they do and the activities that are organised; • Foster children aged over seven are asked about their views of the placement when foster carers’ annual reviews are carried out. ; • Statutory reviews provide an opportunity for children and their families to be consulted. Agency staff were working with children and young people to support them to become more involved in review meetings; • A group of young people in foster care meet with staff and Fostering Panel members to review how foster carers are recruited and how the Panel carries out its work. Arrangements were being made for some young people to undertake a Connexions course in recruitment, so that they could be involved in the recruitment of staff;

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others significant to the child, are sought over all issues that are likely to affect their

• There is a national Children and Young Peoples Forum and in October 2004 FCA held a national Young People’s Conference that focussed on young people moving on. Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 26

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training appropriate to her/his age and understanding to enable informed participation

in decisions about her/his health needs. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 FCA(NE) had established links with the local health services and, in particular, good links with the Children and Adolescent Mental Health services. The promotion of young people’s health and development was taken seriously. However, a higher priority needs to be given to ensuring that information about young peoples’ health needs and history is obtained quickly and passed to the foster carer.

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training appropriate to her/his age and understanding to enable informed participation

FCA (NE) makes clear its expectations of foster carers in respect of their role in helping to promote the health of children in their care. Foster carers maintained records of the health care needs and treatment of the children placed with them. Those interviewed were clear regarding their responsibilities in respect of meeting the health care needs of children. Training in health and hygiene issues, as well as first aid, is available to foster carers and the ‘core curriculum’ for approved carers included a two-day course ‘Promoting and Safeguarding the Health and Development of Children and Young People’.

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training appropriate to her/his age and understanding to enable informed participation

Foster carers spoken to valued the therapy service provided by the Agency. However, there was evidence that the more could be done to inform carers and social workers about what the Therapy Team had to offer. This may lead to the team being involved at an earlier stage in placements that may disrupt.

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training appropriate to her/his age and understanding to enable informed participation

There were delays in the Agency obtaining the appropriate Looked After Children documentation from placing authorities in respect of some children. One carer interviewed said that they were still waiting for medical histories for two children placed with them. One of these children had been in their care for 8 months. Arrangements were in place for ‘Health Passports’ to be maintained for each young person placed with the Agency.

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child or young person in foster care and ensures that she/he is encouraged to attain

her/his full potential. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Education is actively promoted by the Agency and children and young people were supported to develop and achieve. Of the 123 children and young people who were of compulsory school/college age 119 (98%) had established school/college placements.

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child or young person in foster care and ensures that she/he is encouraged to attain

The Agency has an Education Team that, in collaboration with foster carers, has the role of supporting children to meet their educational needs. Additional support is available from the Resource Team when needed. Education Support workers focus on preventative work, providing support in school if there are difficulties, as well as outreach support with an educational component to young people who are not at school. The Team also provides booster classes for young people who have been identified as underachieving. All of the foster carers spoken to valued the service provided by the Education Team.

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child or young person in foster care and ensures that she/he is encouraged to attain

The Agency was working with an scheme to provide young people not at school with the opportunity of gaining qualifications which gave more focus to the home based work Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 27 undertaken by these young people. The Agency also has its own educational award scheme for young people who have either done well, or put in lot of effort at school.

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child or young person in foster care and ensures that she/he is encouraged to attain

A one-day course for carers on Education is included in the core curriculum for carers. The Carers Handbook specifies the foster carers role in relation to meeting the educational needs of the children placed with them.

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child or young person in foster care and ensures that she/he is encouraged to attain

Where placements are planned the Senior Education Liaison Officer is usually consulted regarding the suitability of a proposed placement in order to ensure that the child’s needs could be met, particularly if they have special educational needs. However, there was evidence this did not happen for one young person and that this had lead to difficulties in arranging an appropriate assessment for them.

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child or young person in foster care and ensures that she/he is encouraged to attain

Although Personal Education Plans (PEP) were not in place for each young person there was evidence that action had been taken by the Senior ELO to address this matter. It was agreed that the Agency would prepare and implement a policy on the use of taxis to transport children and young people and that this would cover the arrangements that would be put in place to safeguard them.

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The fostering service ensures that their foster care services help to develop skills,

competence and knowledge necessary for adult living. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Agency supports and prepares young people for leaving care.

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The fostering service ensures that their foster care services help to develop skills,

The Agency had clear expectations regarding the role of foster carers in preparing young people for adulthood. The training programme for foster carers included a course on preparing young people for leaving care. FCA recently organised a national conference for young people that focussed on leaving care. Although the Agency had only had a small number of care leavers, there was evidence that young people were consulted about their future and encouraged to become actively involved in the decision making process. The Director advised that one of the strong messages from young people who attended the conference was that planning for leaving care needed to be started as soon as possible and, that this had been taken on board by the Agency. FCA(NE) social workers and the Resource Team were preparing a programme for care leavers that involved the provision of an ‘after care’ service. Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 28

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The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

• The people who work in or for the fostering service are suitable to work with

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number of staff and carers and their range of qualifications and experience are

sufficient to achieve the purposes and functions of the organisation.

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Any people working in or for the fostering service are suitable people to work with

children and young people and to safeguard and promote their welfare. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 There were clear written recruitment and selection procedures in place for appointing staff. However, appropriate checks were not always being carried out.

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Any people working in or for the fostering service are suitable people to work with

There was evidence that: • Staff interviewed demonstrated a good understanding of foster care; • Staff were interviewed prior to being appointed. However, although two written references were usually obtained, telephone enquiries were only being made to follow up one reference. In one file there was no evidence that either reference had been followed up. For 5 staff there was only 1 written reference on file; • For one member of staff there was no recorded evidence that verification had been sought as to why their previous position working with children had ended. Their application form only detailed their previous employment history in years. This makes identifying any gaps in employment, and obtaining a satisfactory written explanation of them, more difficult; • All staff had had a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check. However, in some instances this had been carried out in their previous employment. A fresh CRB disclosure

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Any people working in or for the fostering service are suitable people to work with

application must be made for all new staff recruited; • The social workers and other professional staff employed by the fostering service were appropriately qualified and experienced. However, documentary evidence of qualifications was not available in some of the personnel files. None of the files examined contained a recent photograph of the member of staff; • Two foster carers police checks had not been renewed within three years.

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agency in the past 12 months:

X Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 29

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Staff are organised and managed in a way that delivers an efficient and effective

foster care service. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 There was evidence that: • A management structure was in place with clear lines of accountability; • Staff were managed and monitored by people with appropriate skills and qualifications; • Workloads of staff were monitored and reviewed – the Agency aims to recruit a additional supervising social worker and resource worker for every 10 new foster carers; • Systems were in place for the assessment, approval and review of carers; • Social work staff and full time resource workers received regular supervision; • Staff and carers have the opportunity to undertake on going training and appropriate professional development. Carers maintained a training portfolio; • There was an appropriate level of clerical and administrative support; • The Agency had access to ‘in-house’ educational, medical and legal advice.

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qualified staff and recruits a range of carers to meet the needs of children and young

people for whom it aims to provide a service. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 4 In order to provide an effective service the Agency recruits a range of foster carers and had suitable arrangements in place to ensure that it has an adequate number of experienced and qualified staff.

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qualified staff and recruits a range of carers to meet the needs of children and young

The Agency had 100 foster families who provided a range of placements that included: short and long term placements as well as parent and child placements. The Agency’s draft Business Plan for 2005 included plans to set up an emergency placement scheme as well as specific targets in relation to the recruitment of new foster carers particularly for children over 12. There were clear procedures in place regarding the assessment of foster carers. The Fostering Panel was thorough in monitoring the quality of these assessments. Suitable arrangements appeared to be in place to monitor staffing levels and workloads. Additional staff had been recruited as the Agency grew and workloads increased. Staff were also employed on a sessional basis when needed. Arrangements were in place to encourage the retention of salaried staff and foster carers. Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 30

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The fostering service is a fair and competent employer, with sound employment

practices and good support for its staff and carers. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Agency provides good support to its staff and foster carers.

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The fostering service is a fair and competent employer, with sound employment

Newly appointed staff receive an employment contract, a statement of terms and conditions and a job description as well as copies of FCA’s disciplinary and grievance policies. Carers are required to complete a Foster Carer Agreement and are provided with copies of the Agency’s Whistle Blowing and Complaints and Representations Procedures. Staff and carers confirmed that they were aware of these policies. FCA (NE) provide an out of office hours ‘on call’ service. In addition, arrangements were in place to introduce a national duty social worker response service.

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The fostering service is a fair and competent employer, with sound employment

Systems were in place for the regular supervision and support of carers. It is the Agency’s policy that carers receive fortnightly support visits when children are in placement, although these may be monthly if the carers have established, long term placements. Carers interviewed confirmed that support visits could be more often when needed.

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There is a good quality training programme to enhance individual skills and to keep

staff up-to-date with professional and legal developments. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Agency supported staff to access training for their personal and professional development.

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There is a good quality training programme to enhance individual skills and to keep

It was noted that: • An appraisal system was in place for staff. Supervision sessions and annual appraisals identified staff training and development needs. However, it was noted that there had been delays in carrying out some appraisals. It was agreed that action would be taken to resolve this matter; • Joint training between fostering staff and foster carers took place; • Induction training for all staff included one day’s training at the national headquarters. A 2 week induction programme was in place for social work staff; • Social work staff had access to PQ1 training and resource workers could undertake NVQ 3 training; • FCA(NE) obtained the ‘Investors In People’ award in 2002. Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 31

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Standard 20 (20.1 - 20.5)

All staff are properly accountable and supported. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Suitable arrangements were in place to support staff and ensure that they were clear regarding their roles and responsibilities.

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Standard 20 (20.1 - 20.5)

There was evidence that: • Staff are provided with a copy of the job description for their post which details their duties and responsibilities; • Staff had access to the policies and procedures for the Service. Copies were available in the office; • In addition to regular team meetings, weekly placement meetings were held; • All staff, including administrative staff and resource workers, received formal supervision. However, there were differences in the frequency and regularity of supervision sessions, particularly for senior staff. • Records were maintained of the content of the supervision and there was a set agenda for supervision sessions; • A system of annual appraisals was in place.

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Standard 21 (21.1 - 21.6)

The fostering service has a clear strategy for working with and supporting carers. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 4 The Agency had a clear strategy in place for working with, and supporting, carers.

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Standard 21 (21.1 - 21.6)

Supervising social workers and carers were clear about the role of the supervising social worker. Annual reviews of carers were being carried out. Only the first annual review report is presented automatically to the Panel, subsequent reports are presented to the Panel only if there is an identified need to do so. Reviews are usually held at one of the Agency’s offices. The foster carer, supervising social worker, placing authority social worker and young person being fostered are asked to complete a form requesting their views about the placement. Arrangements were in place to provide foster carers with up to 3 weeks respite care a year. Foster carer support groups were held regularly in each of the sub-offices of the Agency. Those individual carers who were interviewed were satisfied with the support they received from the Agency. This was also reflected in the feedback received at the Carers Support Group meetings. 31 of the 36 carers who completed a questionnaire

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Standard 21 (21.1 - 21.6)

indicated that they were ‘very satisfied’ with the level of support they received, 3 indicated ‘quite well’ and 1 ‘ok’. Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 32

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The fostering service is a managed one that provides supervision for foster carers

and helps them to develop their skills. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Agency provides foster carers with a good level of support and supervision as well as opportunities to develop their skills and experience.

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The fostering service is a managed one that provides supervision for foster carers

The FCA (NE) Foster Care Agreement is well written and contained detailed information for carers regarding what the Agency expects of them and what they can expect from the Agency. Foster carers received appropriate support from social workers and had access to other professional support – including the Agency’s Therapy and Education Teams. The draft 2005 Business Plan included plans to employ a health professional to provide training and support to carers and children. There was evidence that supervising social workers carried out unannounced visits to foster carers homes.

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The fostering service is a managed one that provides supervision for foster carers

All Foster Carers are provided with a detailed and comprehensive Carers Handbook that is kept under review. There was a package of practical support available for carers that included membership of Fostering Network, 21 days paid respite per year and public liability insurance cover. The Carers Handbook included information complaints, representations and allegations. Records of Complaints and Allegations were being maintained.

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provide high quality care and meet the needs of each child/young person placed in

their care. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Agency provided foster carers with a good range of opportunities to develop their skills and experience.

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provide high quality care and meet the needs of each child/young person placed in

Prospective foster carers are provided with pre-approval and induction training. Those with no previous experience also receive ‘Impact Training’. This involves a prospective carer being mentored by an experienced carer for approximately three months. The Agency’s ‘Equal Opportunities Policy’ included a commitment to provide all training within a framework of equal opportunities and anti-discriminatory practice and there was evidence that this was implemented. Foster carers interviewed confirmed that they are encouraged to attend training and that the timing of training and the venues were satisfactory. Child-care and expenses are provided where required.

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provide high quality care and meet the needs of each child/young person placed in

A programme of post approval training and development for carers was in place. This included a core curriculum that all carers are expected to complete. The training programme is evaluated and reviewed annually. FCA also encourages carers to undertake NVQ Level 3 training. The annual reviews of fosters carers includes consideration of their training needs. Experienced carers who have completed the core training are encouraged to develop their own training pathways in consultation with their supervising social worker. Records indicated that 2 of the carers who were ‘case tracked’ had not attended any training during the previous 12 months. Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 33

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The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

• All appropriate records are kept and are accessible in relation to the fostering services and the individual foster carers and foster children.

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maintained for each child or young person in foster care which details the nature and

quality of care provided and contributes to an understanding of her/his life events.

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Relevant information from the case records is made available to the child and to

anyone involved in her/his care. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 It was noted that: • Case records were in place for each child and these were stored securely. Some foster carers recorded information about the children placed with them in a diary rather than the Agency’s record sheets and some files did not have copies of the foster carers records. It was agreed that this matter would be addressed; • Arrangements were in place for the transference of relevant information regarding a child to the responsible authority as and when required. However, the social worker for one child indicated that they were not being informed of significant events or receiving regular written updates about the child, as had been agreed; • Foster carer preparation training included a session on recording and post approval training included the course ‘Helping the Child Make Sense of their Past’; • The Agency’s Standards of Practice for carers requires carers to keep information on

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Relevant information from the case records is made available to the child and to

children placed with them confidential and secure. There was evidence that this expectation was being complied with; • The relevant LAC documentation was not in place in all of the files examined. The Agency needed to be more active in trying to ensure that the relevant documentation is in place.

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The fostering service's administrative records contain all significant information

relevant to the running of the foster care service and as required by regulations. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Separate records were in place in respect of staff, carers and children. Arrangements were in place to monitor the quality of these records. Confidential records were securely stored in lockable cupboards. Arrangements were also in place to ensure that information held on computers was also secure. The Carers Handbook included guidance on how carers can access their files. A Children’s Register and a Register of Foster Carers were in place. Central records were kept of complaints and allegations. The complaints record format had been revised to ensure that all the relevant information is recorded. It was agreed that separate records of accidents and allegations would be maintained. To facilitate monitoring, these records would benefit from being kept in chronological rather than alphabetical order.

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The fostering service's administrative records contain all significant information

Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 34 Number of current foster placements supported by the agency: 151 Number of placements made by the agency in the last 12 months: X

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months:

X Number of new foster carers approved during the last 12 months: X Number of foster carers who left the agency during the last 12 months: X

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Maximum £

X Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 35

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The intended outcome for the following standard is:

• The premises used as offices by the fostering service are suitable for the purpose.

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Standard 26 (26.1 - 26.5)

Premises used as offices by the fostering service are appropriate for the purpose. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The premises used by the Service consisted of sub-offices in Alnwick, Seaton Burn, Darlington, Middlesbrough and the head office in Newcastle upon Tyne. Access arrangements were appropriate with the exception that disabled access was not available in the Darlington and Newcastle offices. Apart form the Seaton Burn office, where there was no designated room for carrying out work with children, each of the offices had space for therapeutic and educational work. Security measures were in place in respect of the safe storage of confidential information and the information retained on the computer system. The Agency appeared to be suitably equipped with office equipment and IT systems. The draft Business Plan for 2005 included plans to provide all therapy staff with computers.

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Standard 26 (26.1 - 26.5)

Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 36

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The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

• The agency fostering services are financially viable and appropriate and timely payments are made to foster carers.

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The agency ensures it is financially viable at all times and has sufficient financial

resources to fulfil its obligations. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 0 Not assessed. This standard was assessed earlier in 2004, as part of the registration of the responsible individual for the organisation by the relevant Area Office of the Commission.

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The financial processes/systems of the agency are properly operated and maintained

in accordance with sound and appropriate accounting standards and practice. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 All financial records were kept centrally at the FCA national head office. There was evidence that the Finance Section based at the head office was staffed by an appropriately qualified and experienced team. There was also evidence that the Agency was financially viable. Monthly accounts are produced. The Agency’s budgets are monitored on a monthly basis by the Board of Directors of FCA and an accountant. The corporate FCA Brochure contained a statement of its charges for each type of placement as well as a breakdown of charges for additional services such as supervised contact.

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cost of caring for each child or young person placed with him or her. Payments are

made promptly and at the agreed time. Allowances and fees are reviewed annually. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 4 The Foster Carers Handbook contained clear guidance on the Agency’s fostering allowances, payments and expenses and this included details of the frequency and method of payment. Foster carers receive an annual summary of fees and allowances. Each of the foster carers interviewed confirmed that payments were made promptly. This was also confirmed by those carers who were at the support group meetings attended by an Inspector. Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 37

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The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

• Fostering panels are organised efficiently and effectively so as to ensure that

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Fostering panels have clear written policies and procedures, which are implemented

in practice, about the handling of their functions. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 4 The Agency’s ‘Fostering Panel Operational Procedures’ cover those matters referred to in Standard 30. CRB checks were carried out on panel members. The Panel Manager’s role included ensuring that assessments of prospective carers were carried out satisfactorily and were fed through to the panel in an efficient manner. The Panel addressed its quality assurance function and undertook a thorough consideration of the assessments/annual reviews presented to it. Arrangements had been put in place to ensure that the reports presented at panel were made available to panel members within the specified timescales. Panel members were observed to be well prepared and a structured decision making process was evident. Plans were in place for the FCA Quality Assurance Team to provide training to Panel members.

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Fostering panels have clear written policies and procedures, which are implemented

The minutes of the Panel meetings should clearly identify the reasons why changes to a carer’s approval status had been granted. Consideration should also be given to providing the Panel with regular reports regarding unplanned endings of placements and the outcomes of foster carers reviews. This would inform the assessment and review process. Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 38

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The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

• When foster care is provided as a short-term break for a child, the arrangement recognises that the parents remain the main carers for the child.

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have policies and procedures, implemented in practice, to meet the particular needs

of children receiving short-term breaks. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 9 Not applicable. Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 39

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The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

• Local authority fostering services' policies and procedures for assessing,

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there is recognition of the particular relationship and position of family and friend

carers. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 9 Not applicable. Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 40

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Date

Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 41

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comments/confirmation relating to the content and accuracy of the report for

We would welcome comments on the content of this report relating to the Inspection conducted on 6 December 2004 and any factual inaccuracies:

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comments/confirmation relating to the content and accuracy of the report for

Please limit your comments to one side of A4 if possible Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 42

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Action taken by the CSCI in response to the provider’s comments:

Amendments to the report were necessary NO

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Action taken by the CSCI in response to the provider’s comments:

Comments were received from the provider YES

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Action taken by the CSCI in response to the provider’s comments:

Provider comments/factual amendments were incorporated into the final inspection report NO

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Action taken by the CSCI in response to the provider’s comments:

YES Provider comments are available on file at the Area Office but have not been incorporated into the final inspection report. The inspector believes the report to be factually accurate

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Note:

In instances where there is a major difference of view between the Inspector and the Registered Provider responsible Local Authority fostering service Manager both views will be made available on request to the Area Office.

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report:

Action plan was received at the point of publication YES

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report:

Action plan covers all the statutory requirements in a timely fashion YES

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report:

Action plan did not cover all the statutory requirements and required further discussion NO

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report:

Provider has declined to provide an action plan NO

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Public reports

It should be noted that all CSCI inspection reports are public documents. Reports on children’s homes are only obtainable on personal application to CSCI offices. Foster Care Associates (North East) Page 43

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Registered Person’s or responsible Local Authority Manager’s statement of

agreement/comments: Please complete the relevant section that applies.

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Date

Note: In instance where there is a profound difference of view between the Inspector and the Registered Provider both views will be reported. Please attach any extra pages, as applicable.

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Foster Care Associates (North East) / 6th December 2004

Commission for Social Care Inspection 33 Greycoat Street London SW1P 2QF

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Foster Care Associates (North East) / 6th December 2004

Telephone: 020 7979 2000 Fax: 020 7979 2111

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Foster Care Associates (North East) / 6th December 2004

National Enquiry Line: 0845 015 0120 www.csci.org.uk

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Foster Care Associates (North East) / 6th December 2004

S0000037579.V231946.R01 © This report may only be used in its entirety. Extracts may not be used or reproduced without the express permission of the Commission for Social Care Inspection

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Foster Care Associates (North East) / 6th December 2004

The paper used in this document is supplied from a sustainable source

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