Setting

Stockport MBC Fostering Services

Stockport Social Services Ponsonby House Edward Street Stockport SK1 3UR

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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. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 1

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Address

Stockport Social Services, Ponsonby House, Edward Street, Stockport, SK1 3UR

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Tel No:

Fax No: 0161 474 4611 Address Stockport Social Services, Ponsonby House, Edward Street, Stockport, SK1 3UR

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Date of first registration Date of latest registration certificate

Date of last inspection 24/03/03 Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 2 Date of Inspection Visit 27th November 2003 ID Code

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inspections and bring a different

perspective to the inspection process. N/A Name of Specialist (e.g. Interpreter/Signer) (if applicable) N/A

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the time of inspection

Sue Westwood Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 3

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

Independent and local authority fostering services which fall within the jurisdiction of the National Care Standards Commission (NCSC) 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 NCSC in respect of Stockport MBC Fostering Services. 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 NCSC 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.

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

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

• 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. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 5 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SERVICES PROVIDED.

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INSPECTION VISITS

Stockport MBC has a Family Placement Service which provides a range of placements to meet the needs of children and young people. These include permanent and temporary foster care and emergency placement. Specific schemes provide for mother and baby placements, teenagers and short break care.

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INSPECTION VISITS

Following a recent review there has been a re-organisation of family placement services into a Fostering and an Adoption Team. The Service Manager has responsibility for all these services. The functions of the fostering team is the recruitment, selection, support and training of Foster Carers .

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INSPECTION VISITS

Short breaks for children with disabilities are provided through an independent agency. Stockport MBC Fostering Services 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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Introduction

This is the second statutory inspection carried out in respect of Stockport MBC’s fostering service.

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Introduction

Since the last inspection there have been a considerable number of positive developments which demonstrate the local authority’s commitment to meeting or exceeding the Fostering Service Regulations and National Minimum Standards.

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Introduction

Not all of the developments have yet progressed far enough to achieve the desired outcomes and this is reflected in the number of requirements and recommendations.

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Introduction

A review of the fostering service has taken place and the authority was in a period of transition at the time of the inspection.

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Statement of Purpose

The fostering service has a draft statement of purpose and intends to compile a children’s guide. These must be completed and meet Regulation and NMS.

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Fitness to provide or manage a fostering service

The fostering service is managed by people with appropriate skills and experience in this field. The manager should ensure that she achieves a management qualification by 2005.

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Management of the fostering service

The service is managed efficiently by the service manager. Lines of accountability are clear. Systems for collating information and monitoring the fostering service as required by Regulation and NMS have yet to be implemented.

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Securing and Promoting Welfare

Policies and procedures have been revised, including those in regard to child protection, bullying, absence without authority and behaviour management. Not all have yet been ratified or implemented.

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Securing and Promoting Welfare

The service is working to increase its pool of in-house foster carers and is using independent agencies to increase placement choice.

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Securing and Promoting Welfare

Good practice was evident in meeting the health, educational and social needs of young people in foster care. The commitment from managers, staff and carers to encouraging young people to maintain contact with their families is high. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 7

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Recruiting, checking, managing, supporting and training staff and foster carers

Stockport MBC’s recruitment and selection of staff is appropriate and is based on equal opportunities policies. The teams are fully staffed and plans are in place to manage impending vacancies.

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Recruiting, checking, managing, supporting and training staff and foster carers

The staff of the Family Placement team are appropriately qualified, skilled and experienced and have access to regular training. The frequency of formal supervision does not meet Regulation and NMS. Personnel files do not meet Regulation and NMS and this is being addressed.

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Recruiting, checking, managing, supporting and training staff and foster carers

Foster carers have access to a comprehensive training programme and support groups. Health and safety checks are carried at annual reviews. Systems for consultation with foster carers and their involvement in the development of the fostering service are well developed and valued by the enthusiastic group of carers and staff who are committed to raising standards.

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Recruiting, checking, managing, supporting and training staff and foster carers

Placement agreements do not comply with Regulation and reviews of carers are not carried out within the required time scales.

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Records

The service maintains registers of carers and placements and there is a system for updating the registers.

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Records

All foster carers’ files do not contain the appropriate information and this is being addressed.

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Fitness of premises

The premises are secure and appropriate for the use of the fostering service.

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Financial requirements

The standards on financial processes and viability are not applicable to Local Authority fostering services.

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Financial requirements

There is a system in operation to ensure that foster carers receive allowances and payments promptly.

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Fostering panels

The fostering panel is properly constituted and meetings are well organised and conducted. Progress on clarifying the function of the panel has been made and improvements in its effectiveness are evident. Plans to continue with the developments must be carried out.

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Short term breaks

Ensuring that the service received by short break carers meets Regulation and NMS remains an area for development. Policies and procedures need to underpin practice change. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 8

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Family and friends as carers

The appointment of a specific Family Placement Officer with responsibility for child specific carers has resulted in improvements which must be consolidated and made available to all such carers. Stockport MBC Fostering Services 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:

Plans to revise the Statement of Purpose, Children’s Guide and some of the required policies and procedures need to be completed.

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The grounds for the above Report or Notice are:

Stockport MBC is required to ensure that personnel files meet Regulation and NMS.

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The grounds for the above Report or Notice are:

Systems for monitoring matters in Schedule 7 of the Regulations are not fully in place.

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The grounds for the above Report or Notice are:

Foster carer reviews are not always carried out at intervals of less than one year.

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The grounds for the above Report or Notice are:

There is further work to be done to ensure that the fostering panel has appropriate policies and procedures which clarify its roles and responsibilities. Further work on developing and improving the service to Family and Friends Carers and Short Break Carers is required.

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The grounds for the above Report or Notice are:

There is a need to continue with developments to ensure that sufficient carers are available to meet the needs of young people referred for placement.

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The grounds for the above Report or Notice are:

There is a need to ensure that all staff are formally supervised and have regular appraisal. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 10

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Implementation of Statutory Requirements from Last Inspection

Requirements from last Inspection visit fully actioned? NO

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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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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

3(1) and 3(4) FS1 Stockport MBC must ensure that the draft Statement of Purpose is finalised and meets Regulation and NMS and is distributed appropriately. January

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

2 3(3) FS15 FS1 Stockport MBC must ensure that a Children’s Guide is compiled in an appropriate format and that it contains information on the complaints procedure. January

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

20(3)(d) and Schedule 1 FS3 Stockport MBC must ensure that personnel records include all the information outlined in Schedule 1 of Regulations. December

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

42(1) and Schedule 7 FS4 Stockport MBC must ensure that systems for monitoring all the matters in Schedule 7 are in place. September

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

6 33 FS7 Stockport MBC must ensure that sufficient carers are available to meet the ethnic, cultural, religious and linguistic needs of young people. November

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

34(3) and Schedule 6 FS8 Stockport MBC must ensure that Foster Placement Agreements comply with Schedule 6 of Regulations. November Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 11

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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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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

9 13(1) FS9 Stockport MBC must ensure that there is Behaviour Management policy and an Absence without Authority policy which meet Regulation and NMS. January

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

13 21(4)(a) FS19 Stockport MBC should ensure that staff are formally supervised and that training needs are identified. October

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

15 29(2) FS21 Stockport MBC must ensure that Foster Carer reviews are carried out and presented to the panel to meet with Regulation and NMS. December

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

17 30 FS24 Stockport MBC must ensure that case records for Foster Carers are maintained to meet Regulation and NMS. January

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

24(3)(d) 26(2)(c FS30 Stockport MBC must ensure that the Fostering Panels have sufficient independent members to meet Regulation and that the roles and responsibilities of panels are clarified. January

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

27 and Schedule 3 FS30 Stockport MBC must ensure that full information is provided to the panel. January

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Action is being taken by the National Care Standards Commission to monitor

compliance with the above requirements. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 12

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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

Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 13

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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 and recommendations 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

3(1) and 3(4) FS1 Stockport MBC must ensure that the draft statement of purpose is finalised and meets Regulation and NMS and is distributed appropriately. 31/05/04

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

2 3(3) FS15 FS1 Stockport MBC must ensure that a children’s guide is compiled in an appropriate format and that it contains information on the complaints procedure. 31/05/04

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

20(3)(d) and Schedule 1 FS3 Stockport MBC must ensure that personnel records include all the information outlined in Schedule 1 of Regulations. 31/05/04

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

42(1) and Schedule 7 FS4 Stockport MBC must ensure that systems for monitoring all the matters in Schedule 7 are in place. 31/05/04

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

5 33 FS8FS7 Stockport MBC must continue with developments to ensure that sufficient carers are available to meet the needs of young people referred for placement. 01/08/04

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

34(3) and Schedule 6 FS8 Stockport MBC must ensure that foster placement agreements comply with Schedule 6 of Regulations. 31/05/04

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

7 13(1) FS9 Stockport MBC must ensure that the draft behaviour management policy and absence without authority policy are implemented. 30/06/04 Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 14

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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

8 21(4)(a) FS20 Stockport MBC must ensure that staff are formally supervised, have regular appraisal and that team meetings take place. 31/05/04

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

9 29(2) FS21 Stockport MBC must ensure that foster carer reviews are carried out annually. 31/05/04

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

10 30 FS24 Stockport MBC must ensure that case records for all foster carers are maintained to meet Regulation and NMS. 31/05/04

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

11 37(3) FS24 Stockport MBC must ensure that Regulation and NMS are complied with in relation to respite carers. 31/07/04

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

12 26(2) FS30 Stockport MBC must ensure that the fostering panel has appropriate policies and procedures. 31/07/04

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

13 34 FS32 Stockport MBC must ensure that Regulation and NMS are complied with in relation to carers who are family or friends of the young person and that the positive developments are built on and consolidated. 31/07/04 Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 15

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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 FS2 Stockport MBC should ensure that the manager has achieved a qualification in management at NVQ Level 4 or equivalent by 2005.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

2 FS6 Stockport MBC should ensure that risk assessments are carried out as appropriate.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

3 FS8 Stockport MBC should ensure that foster placement agreements which meet Regulation and NMS are implemented.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

4 FS11 Stockport MBC should ensure that the opinions of young people, their families and others concerned in their welfare are routinely sought.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

5 FS16 Stockport MBC should ensure that there is clarity about the respective roles of the family placement officers and placing social workers.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

6 FS22FS20 Stockport MBC should ensure that guidelines and practice documents for staff and foster carers are updated in line planned with policy changes and developments.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

7 FS22 Stockport MBC should ensure that unannounced visits to foster homes are carried out.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

8 FS22 Stockport MBC should ensure that there is a system in place to monitor foster carer’s recording.

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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 two- letter prefix, e.g., FS10 refers to Standard 10. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 16

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

The following inspection methods have been used in the production of this report:

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

Survey of placing authorities YES Foster carer survey YES Foster children survey NO Checks with other organisations and Individuals YES • Directors of Social services YES • 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 NO • 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 NO Observation of foster panel YES Inspection of policy/practice documents YES Inspection of records YES Interview with individual child NO

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

Date of Inspection 29/11/03 Time of Inspection 09:30 Duration Of Inspection (hrs) 42 Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 17 The following pages summarise the key findings and evidence from this inspection, together with the NCSC 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. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 18

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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? 2

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

The statement of purpose for the fostering service is in draft form at present and is going through a consultation process which will lead to its approval by councillors. It should be ratified early in 2004 and will be made available on Stockport MBC’s internet site.

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

A children’s guide to meet Regulation and NMS must be compiled and circulated. The looked after children guide is available to young people but is not a synopsis of the statement of purpose in child-accessible language.

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

All of the fostering service policies, procedures and written guidelines should accurately reflect the statement of purpose.

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

Stockport MBC must ensure that the draft statement of purpose is finalised and meets Regulation and NMS and is distributed appropriately.

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

Stockport MBC must ensure that a children’s guide is compiled in an appropriate format and that it contains information on the complaints procedure. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 19

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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? 2

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

The fostering service is split into two family placement teams, each of which has a dedicated manager, namely the adoption team and the fostering team. The roles and functioning of the two teams have been reviewed following a draft report from an independent consultant. Family placement officers and social workers were involved in the process. The service manager will monitor the implementation of the recent changes to the teams.

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

The service manager and the fostering team manager have considerable relevant experience and skills in family placement and in management. They stated that Stockport MBC runs regular courses for managers which they attend, including staff supervision, recruitment and selection, health and safety and financial training.

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

The service manager is undertaking NVQ level 5 in management and Stockport MBC should ensure that this qualification is gained by 2005.

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

Stockport MBC should ensure that the manager has achieved a qualification in management at NVQ level 4 or equivalent by 2005.

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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? 2

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

Personnel files for the managers and staff do not contain the information set out in Schedule 1 of the Regulations and this must be rectified. The personnel department is in the process of auditing all files to achieve compliance and is requesting information from staff, including evidence of qualifications.

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

Systems to ensure that police checks are renewed every three years are in place.

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

Stockport MBC must ensure that personnel records include all the information outlined in Schedule 1 of Regulations. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 20

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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? 2

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

The fostering service must ensure that there is a robust system for the manager to monitor matters outlined in Schedule 7 of the Regulations. The service manager is addressing this and a system for complaints has been set up. Plans are in place for accident forms to be provided to foster carers and there is a format for family placement officers to record any concerns. The service manager monitors records and files on a quarterly cycle.

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

There is a system for the notification of significant events and incidents involving child protection issues during this inspection cycle had been handled appropriately by the fostering service.

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

The inspection of financial procedures is not applicable to Local Authority Fostering Services.

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

Stockport MBC must ensure that systems for monitoring all the matters in Schedule 7 are in place.

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

Number of statutory notifications made to NCSC in last 12 months: 2

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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. 0

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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. 0 Initiation of child protection enquiry involving a child. 0

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

Number of complaints made to NCSC about the agency in the past 12 months: 1 Number of the above complaints which were substantiated: 1 Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 21

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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

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Standard 5 (5.1 - 5.4)

The manager’s job description reflects her roles and responsibilities. Lines of accountability and delegated powers are clearly defined. In her absence, the family placement manager or adoption manager deputise on day to day matters. Her line manager, who is a senior service manager, is available for decision making.

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Standard 5 (5.1 - 5.4)

The fostering team manager is due to leave the authority in the near future and there are plans to use an agency worker whilst recruitment is progressed. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 22

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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? 2

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

The fostering service management and staff expressed a commitment to promoting and securing children’s welfare by completing full assessments and by inspecting carers’ homes and care practices on a regular basis.

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

Foster carers’ homes visited by the inspectors were adequately furnished and decorated and maintained to a good standard of cleanliness and hygiene. The manager and staff stated that children and young people usually have a bedroom to themselves and any sharing of rooms would be risk assessed.

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

Health and safety checks on foster homes are carried out as part of each carer’s annual review. New policies are in place which cover transport of children in foster care and health and safety. Safety equipment is provided to foster carers as needed.

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

The production of effective risk assessments and risk management plans is an area for development and should cover health and safety, safe care and enabling young people to take risks appropriate to their age and development. Placing social workers complete personal risk assessments for each young person at the time of placement.

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

Stockport MBC should ensure that risk assessments are carried out as appropriate.

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

The fostering service has a system to ensure that foster carers’ CRB checks are renewed every three years.

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

Foster carers have a supervision agreement which sets out the methods used to ensure young people are safeguarded and their welfare promoted.

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

The foster carers visited by the inspector were aware of the Commission’s role and were prepared for the visits.

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

Foster carer training includes safe caring strategies and practices. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 23

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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? 2

p.25

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

Staff and foster carers are invited to seminars which aim to raise disability awareness and knowledge. These are not limited to those foster carers who care for children with disabilities.

p.25

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

The manager and staff outlined the limitations of the fostering service in regard to meeting the needs of young people in regard to religion ethnic origin, language, culture and disability. Shortage of appropriate carers results in an inconsistent provision and the fostering service must address this. Where appropriate, placements are not available in-house, there is provision for the manager to commission placement from independent providers and appropriate protocols are in place.

p.25

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

Stockport MBC must continue with developments to ensure that sufficient carers are available to meet the needs of young people referred for placement.

p.25

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

The provision of aids and adaptations and specialist services such as translation are said to be readily accessible. The grants available to carers include festival allowances which the foster carers know how to access.

p.25

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

Stockport MBC has a corporate diversity group with representatives from all service areas. Principles of promoting equality and valuing diversity permeate many of the policies and procedures of the fostering service.

p.25

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

p.25

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

The fostering service acknowledges that the current pool of foster carers imposes limitations on matching considerations, particularly for adolescents, children with disabilities and larger family groups. The agency is using external placements to increase placement choice.

p.25

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

Family placement officers report that they are being asked to approach carers to take placements which are inappropriate, especially emergency placements. Where such placements happen, extra support to carers is put into place.

p.25

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

Records indicate good practice in regard to introductory programmes for young people going into foster care on a planned basis. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 24 Following the last inspection a new format for foster placement agreements has been devised which will meet Regulation and NMS. Stockport MBC should ensure that these are implemented.

p.25

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

Stockport MBC should ensure that foster placement agreements which meet Regulation and NMS are implemented.

p.26

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

Matching reports for young people going into long term placements are comprehensive and include consideration of the young person’s assessed needs.

p.26

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

neglect, exploitation and deprivation. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2

p.26

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

Stockport MBC has revised its policies on child protection and bullying to meet Regulation and NMS. New procedures on professional abuse include references to foster carers. Policies on behaviour management and absence without authority have been produced and must be ratified and implemented.

p.26

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

Stockport MBC must ensure that the draft behaviour management policy and absence without authority policy are implemented.

p.26

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

The information for foster carers in relation to developing a safe care family policy is comprehensive and wide ranging. It includes practical aspects, such as dress and the use of babysitters. Records indicate that safe caring policies are followed in practice. There are plans for an expanded safe caring policy to be developed in consultation with family placement officers and foster carers.

p.26

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

Development in promoting and safeguarding the welfare of young people in respite or short break placements is needed (see NMS 31).

p.26

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

Foster carers visited by the inspector were clear about appropriate and inappropriate sanctions and demonstrated a range of skills in managing behaviour. Details of prohibited methods of behaviour management are in the foster care agreement.

p.26

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

Appropriate training is available to foster carers, including behaviour management, child abuse and building self-esteem.

p.26

being bullied:

100 % Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 25

p.26

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? 4

p.27

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

Stockport MBC has a policy on contact which was implemented in 2001 and which includes short break care. It is clear that the authority is committed to ensuring that the policy is carried out in practice and that contact arrangements are established, maintained, monitored and reviewed.

p.27

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

Foster carer training includes a session on ‘retaining the links’ and the carers interviewed demonstrated a commitment to encouraging and enabling contact and an appreciation of the rights of young people in this respect.

p.27

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

Contact arrangements are specified in foster placement agreements and monitored at statutory reviews and by family placement officers when they visit carers. Placing social workers are invited to comment on how carers manage contact for the annual foster carers’ reviews.

p.27

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

Where children and young people are placed out of the area attention is paid to supporting contact.

p.27

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

Support is available to carers to ensure that contact visits are facilitated, from family support workers and family resource workers. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 26

p.27

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? 2

p.28

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

Stockport MBC must continue to work to ensure that there are systems in place to seek the views and opinions of young people and their families about issues which affect their daily life and future. The Children’s Rights Service has been asked to lead the development of effective consultation with young people and the service manager outlined the need to look at consultation with parents.

p.28

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

Stocmkport MBC should ensure that the opinions of young people, their families and others concerned in their welfare are routinely sought.

p.28

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

Young people are encouraged to attend and participate in their reviews and to complete the authority’s consultation document. Foster carers encourage or assist young people in completing these documents and support them in attending their reviews. Records show instances of parents being consulted about specific issues.

p.28

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

There was evidence at the inspection that foster carers are consulted and are actively involved in the development of the family placement service.

p.28

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

Information on how to complain and the process involved must be included in the children’s guide (see NMS 1).

p.28

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? 3

p.28

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

Stockport MBC has a comprehensive health policy which includes health monitoring, contact numbers for LAC nurses and facilities for young people to make their own arrangements to contact an independent health worker.

p.28

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

Health issues and needs are covered in foster carer training and monitored through reviews. The manager stated that work is being undertaken to ensure that foster carers have a written health record for all young people in their care (presently this is limited to under 5’s) and this is good practice.

p.28

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

The panel has a member whose experience and skills are in the field of healthcare.

p.28

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

Examples of carers being supported to meet complex health needs indicate that the fostering service is promoting the health and development of young people placed with foster carers. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 27

p.28

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? 4

p.29

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

Staff reported positive links with Stockport’s Education Support Team and gave examples of joint work undertaken to enhance the educational opportunities of young people in foster care. The service they provide to young people in foster care includes homework support. All looked after children have an allocated education support worker. The service manager can evidence that multi-agency working is raising educational achievement for looked after children.

p.29

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

The education support team monitors SATS results and delays in waiting for school allocation. The manager of the family placement team meets with the education support team every two weeks and the education of all looked after children is discussed, including educational progress, exclusions and those who are likely to be excluded from schools.

p.29

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

Expectations of foster carers in terms of supporting education are documented in foster placement agreements. Family placement officers gave examples of good practice where foster carers are supporting young people in education and advocating on their behalf. Educational progress is discussed at every young person’s review.

p.29

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

The fostering service supports carers when young people are not in full time education. Prompt action to put in support, through outreach workers, when a young person was unexpectedly excluded from school allowed the foster carer involved to keep to commitments made.

p.29

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

PEPS and SEN statements are on young people’s files. The manager stated that 90% of foster carer households have personal computers for use by the young people and the fostering service can provide them. Access to educational psychologists was also said to be available.

p.29

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

The fostering service holds financial responsibilities for school costs, including uniform, trips and equipment.

p.29

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

There was evidence of young people’s leisure needs and wishes being met. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 28

p.29

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

p.30

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

Foster carers’ training includes sessions on the Leaving Care Act.

p.30

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

Referrals to the 16 + teams are occurring as appropriate and there is a process for funding the continuing foster placement of those young people in full time education.

p.30

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

The family placement team and the 16+ team are working together to improve services for young people in transition to adulthood. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 29

p.30

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

p.31

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

sufficient to achieve the purposes and functions of the organisation.

p.31

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

p.31

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

Stockport MBC has a written procedure for recruitment and selection of staff, which includes interviewing all staff and ensuring that references are taken up.

p.31

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

Not all personnel files contain the information specified in Schedule 1 of the Regulations (see NMS 3). A checklist is being devised to ensure all information is received when the service is recruiting staff. The service is using agency workers and appropriate information, including CRB checks, qualifications and employment history is held.

p.31

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

All staff involved in the assessment of foster carers are qualified social workers with experience and skills in family placement. They have undertaken training in completing competence based assessments.

p.31

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

Administrative staff have clear guidelines which outline the service’s expectations in terms of confidentiality.

p.31

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

An induction process is in place for all new staff which includes monthly monitoring.

p.31

agency in the past 12 months:

Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 30

p.32

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

foster care service. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2

p.32

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

Since the last inspection an office manager has been appointed. Clarity of roles in the administration team has improved and supervision and training needs are being addressed.

p.32

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

Family placement officers continue to report that they are involved in a lot of administrative tasks, such as photocopying and filing. Stockport MBC should continue to monitor the adequacy of administrative support during this period of transition.

p.32

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

The family placement teams operate a duty system, which ensures that enquiries from prospective foster carers are dealt with promptly and the managers allocate follow-up work. Similarly, the person on duty is available to deal with referrals for services.

p.32

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

The clarification of roles and responsibilities of the supervising social workers and the placing social workers remains an area for development. Family placement officers and the team managers are aware of the tensions and are working to achieve better communication and effective working relationships. Examples of joint visits to carers to address difficulties or potentially problematic areas were outlined which indicate good practice and joint training is happening.

p.32

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

Stockport MBC should ensure that there is clarity about the respective roles of the family placement officers and placing social workers. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 31

p.32

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? 2

p.33

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

At the time of the inspection the fostering service was fully staffed and plans to recruit for impending vacancies were in hand. It was not possible to assess the adequacy of staffing at the time of the inspection due to the recent reorganisation of the teams. This will be looked at in more detail at the next inspection.

p.33

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

Progress in ensuring the service has an adequate range of carers to meet the needs of young people has been made since the last inspection. Temporary posts to boost recruitment have been filled and include a person with a marketing background. A recruitment policy is being written and there will also be work carried out on how to retain carers. Administrative backup to ensure that there is management monitoring and tracking of the recruitment process is in place. The service manager outlined plans to achieve a robust recruitment strategy. (See NMS 7 and NMS 8).

p.33

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

The need to recruit more carers has been identified in the business plan for the next year. A recruitment group, consisting of supervising social workers, foster carers and the authority’s publicity section, meet to develop annual plans for recruitment.

p.33

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

The manager reported that few carers had left in the past few years and that the fostering service works to retain carers.

p.33

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

The fostering service has a person specification for foster carers who work with sibling groups of three and above which includes essential and desirable attributes and skills.

p.33

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

There is specialism amongst the pool of foster carers and it was evident to the inspector that carers have developed skills and expertise in areas such as the care of adolescents, moving children on to adoption and work with pre-school children.

p.33

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

Not all foster carer assessments contain the information required by Schedule 3. Specifically, records of interviews with personal referees and foster care agreements were not on all files inspected. The manager must ensure that all the information specified in the Regulations is obtained. Recent assessments show an improvement but there is work to be done on bringing longer established carers’ files up to standard. (See NMS 24).

p.33

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

The fostering service uses a competence based model for the assessment of foster carers and staff have been appropriately trained. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 32

p.33

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

p.34

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

The inspector considers that Stockport MBC is a fair and competent employer with reasonable employment practices.

p.34

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

Support to carers outside office hours is being addressed and has improved. Outreach teams now provide a service to young people in foster care. Carers expressed satisfaction with the levels of support they receive from the fostering service.

p.34

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

Appropriate whistle blowing procedures are in place.

p.34

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? 2

p.34

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

The fostering service has a draft induction procedure for staff induction. Staff training is well developed in the authority and the family placement team has development days to address in-house training needs.

p.34

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

Formal appraisal which identifies the training and development needs of staff must be carried out. (See NMS 20).

p.34

Standard 20 (20.1 - 20.5)

All staff are properly accountable and supported. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2

p.34

Standard 20 (20.1 - 20.5)

Staff report that they are well supported. Supervision contracts are being developed which must include provision of appraisal and personal development plans. Formal supervision is infrequent and the manager stated that this has resulted from the staff shortages. Informal supervision was said to be readily available to the staff.

p.34

Standard 20 (20.1 - 20.5)

Stockport MBC must ensure that staff are formally supervised, have regular appraisal and that team meetings take place.

p.34

Standard 20 (20.1 - 20.5)

The service manager supervises the office manager once a month which the latter described as a helpful, two way process. Team meetings are planned but do not always take place due to pressures of work. Once the team is fully staffed this should be addressed.

p.34

Standard 20 (20.1 - 20.5)

The manager should ensure that guidelines and practice documents are updated in line with planned policy changes and distributed to staff and carers. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 33

p.34

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? 2

p.35

Standard 21 (21.1 - 21.6)

All foster carers have an allocated supervising social worker and 70% of annual reviews take place within the required timescales.

p.35

Standard 21 (21.1 - 21.6)

Stockport MBC must ensure that foster carer reviews are carried out annually.

p.35

Standard 21 (21.1 - 21.6)

Work has taken place on responding to allegations about carers and the service is looking to involve independent support for carers during investigations. Discussions with the Foster Care Association are taking place.

p.35

Standard 21 (21.1 - 21.6)

Family placement officers are clear about their support and supervisory roles in working with carers.

p.35

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? 2

p.35

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

Foster carers and family placement officers report that positive working relationships exist. Foster carers have a high expectation of support.

p.35

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

A new foster carer recording policy is in place which will be implemented following training sessions with carers. This separates recording for each young person in placement. It would be good practice for supervising social workers to sign that they have read foster carers’ recording sheets, to evidence that they are monitoring practice.

p.35

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

Stockport MBC should ensure that there is a system in place to monitor foster carers’ recording.

p.35

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

Unannounced visits to foster carers are not being carried out by Stockport MBC and this should be rectified and an appropriate system for recording and monitoring these visits implemented. Foster carers have been informed, by the service, that this will happen.

p.35

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

The fostering service is moving towards competence based reviews. The format of review reports has been amended to meet Regulation and NMS. First reviews go to the panel for consideration as do summaries of subsequent reviews.

p.35

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

The foster carer handbook is in draft form and is a comprehensive document. The service should ensure that it is ratified and distributed to carers. Carers reported lack of written information as a problem area, and the handbook should address this. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 34

p.35

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

their care. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 4

p.36

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

The commitment to provision of a flexible training and support programme for carers is high, as is the quality of the training courses.

p.36

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

The fostering service has a comprehensive training programme for foster carers and, in addition, they have access to training provided by Stockport MBC Social Services Department staff development team, which includes joint training with social workers. The fostering service brings in specialist trainers for topics such as understanding and helping traumatised children. Mandatory training includes child protection, first aid, contact issues, education and health.

p.36

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

NVQ’s are available to carers and training undertaken by foster carers is documented on their files.

p.36

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

Seminars and support groups organised by the fostering service meet in a variety of venues and at different times of the day and the week, thus extending the opportunities for carers to attend.

p.36

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

Child specific carers are now involved in training and have access to support groups.

p.36

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

There was an evident commitment to training expressed by carers who stated that the content was interesting, useful and informative. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 35

p.36

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.

p.37

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.

p.37

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? 2

p.37

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

A register of all children placed in foster care is now in place and a database of foster carers which will inform monitoring and tracking is in place and is developing to include more information. Systems for updating the registers are in place.

p.37

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

There are no mechanisms for collecting and collating the information outlined in Schedule 7 of the Regulations to inform management monitoring and this must be addressed (see NMS 4).

p.37

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

All foster carer files must contain all the information required by Regulation 30. Files inspected did not always contain signed foster care agreements or notifications of approval.

p.37

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

Stockport MBC must ensure that case records for all foster carers are maintained to meet Regulation and NMS.

p.37

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

A system to monitor the information that carers receive from placing social workers and to ensure any deficiencies are remedied is in place. Family placement officers inform the service manager if any documentation is not in place 24 hours after placement and she addresses this with the fieldwork teams manager. Records indicate that the family placement manager monitors this through individual supervision with family placement officers.

p.37

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

Records in regard to young people in respite care placements are not satisfactory. There are no written records indicating how the young person responded to the visits. Family placement officers stated that the carers keep diaries of visits; the information is not transferred to the fostering service’s records. Whilst it is accepted that these placements are often longstanding and that there is good communication between parents and carers, there is also a need for written information about a young person’s needs and how they will be met.

p.37

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

Stockport MBC must ensure that Regulation and NMS are complied with in relation to respite carers. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 36

p.37

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? 2

p.38

The fostering service's administrative records contain all significant information

The variation in current weekly payments to carers indicates the differing amounts from the youngest child specific placement to carers on the teencare project.

p.38

The fostering service's administrative records contain all significant information

Records of allegations and complaints are kept on the foster carers’ individual files. The manager must ensure they are collated (see NMS 4 of this report).

p.38

The fostering service's administrative records contain all significant information

There is a recording policy for staff and there are appropriate permanent and secure records.

p.38

The fostering service's administrative records contain all significant information

Finance information needs to be included in the foster carer’s handbook.

p.38

The fostering service's administrative records contain all significant information

Number of current foster placements supported by the agency: 231 Number of placements made by the agency in the last 12 months: 159

p.38

months:

Number of new foster carers approved during the last 12 months: 16 Number of foster carers who left the agency during the last 12 months: 9

p.38

Maximum £

Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 37

p.39

The intended outcome for the following standard is:

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

p.39

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

p.39

Standard 26 (26.1 - 26.5)

The fostering service has dedicated office space. Space is limited and hot desking is being considered.

p.39

Standard 26 (26.1 - 26.5)

Records are stored securely and a clear desk policy is in operation. The office manager outlined the need for more lockable cupboard space.

p.39

Standard 26 (26.1 - 26.5)

Confidential waste is separated in the offices and is collected.

p.39

Standard 26 (26.1 - 26.5)

The number of computers available to staff and their levels of access to IT systems is being reviewed at present. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 38

p.39

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.

p.40

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? 9

p.40

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

Not applicable to Local Authority Fostering Services.

p.40

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? 9

p.40

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

Not applicable to Local Authority Fostering Services. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 39

p.40

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? 3

p.41

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

Foster carers receive allowances and agreed expenses.

p.41

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

In response to their requests, carers receive payslips with a breakdown of the allowances The manager, administrative staff and foster carers reported that payments are efficiently carried out.

p.41

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

There is an appropriate system for petty cash and auditing.

p.41

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

Allowances and fees are reviewed annually. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 40

p.41

The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

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

p.42

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? 2

p.42

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

Since the last inspection a review of the fostering panel has taken place and there is a written panel protocol, a job description and personal specification for members and a confidentiality agreement in place.

p.42

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

A procedural guide to include clarity about the quality assurance role of panel and the panel’s expectations of the quality of written reports and guidance as to who will present them is needed.

p.42

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

Stockport MBC must ensure that the fostering panel has appropriate policies and procedures.

p.42

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

The panel is properly constituted and meetings are well managed. The panel attended by the inspector was efficiently chaired to allow comprehensive discussion in which all members had opportunity to take part. The range of knowledge and experience of panel members was evident.

p.42

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

The chair of panel has considerable, relevant experience in children’s services. She outlined the positive changes made and the need to build on this progress.

p.42

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

Panel training has included Regulation and NMS and the use of competence based assessments and the service manager is negotiating with the panel in order to meet training needs.

p.42

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

Work is being undertaken on facilitating the attendance of carers at panel.

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

Panel minutes include examples of family placement officers taking cases to panel for discussion and receiving constructive advice.

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

Administrative support to the panel is efficient and papers are received prior to the meeting and are collected for shredding afterwards. Appropriate minutes of the meeting are taken. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 41

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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? 2

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

The service manager acknowledged that the provision of short break care remains an area for development. Policies are in draft forma and must be ratified and implemented. The service manager agreed the need for guidelines to be developed for the visiting of children and young people who are receiving respite care, as there is no protocol on who should see the child in placement nor how often this should occur.

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

Short breaks for children with disabilities are provided through a local independent agency with which Stockport MBC has an ongoing agreement. This agency will be separately inspected. A new post for a worker to concentrate on children with disabilities has been established. This worker will link with the independent provider.

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

A scheme for short breaks for children and young people who are living with their families has been running for two years and is staffed by supervising social workers managed separately from the family placement team. Policies and procedures were said to be evolving and the fostering service must ensure that these are in place to meet Regulation and NMS.

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

The scheme is part of the support services for families in crisis in Stockport, and includes flexible day care in the local community. Intervention is time limited and task centred. There is said to be the flexibility for the short breaks to move into full time care should a young person become looked after.

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

Recruitment and training of staff and carers is shared with the family placement teams. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 42

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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? 2

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

Procedures on child specific placements have been developed, have undergone a consultation process and are awaiting ratification.

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

The establishment of a time limited post, within the family placement team, to concentrate on the needs of child specific carers has clearly led to an improvement in the service. Support to carers has increased and they now have the opportunity to participate in training and in support groups. Recent support group meetings have addressed issues around residence orders and special guardianship orders.

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

One of the child specific carers attends the Foster Care Association meetings as a representative of the group.

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

A newsletter for child specific carers has been developed.

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

Written policies and procedures are developing and there is more clarity about the allowances available.

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

Stockport MBC must ensure that Regulation and NMS are complied with in relation to carers who are family or friends of the young person and that the positive developments are built on and consolidated. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 43

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(where applicable)

Date N/A Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 44

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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 29 th November 2003 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 Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 45

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

Amendments to the report were necessary NO

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

Comments were received from the provider YES

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

Provider comments/factual amendments were incorporated into the final inspection report

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

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

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report:

Action plan covers all the statutory requirements in a timely fashion

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report:

Action plan did not cover all the statutory requirements and required further discussion

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report:

Provider has declined to provide an action plan

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Public reports

It should be noted that all NCSC inspection reports are public documents. Reports on children’s homes are only obtainable on personal application to NCSC offices. Stockport MBC Fostering Services Page 46

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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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