Setting

Thurrock Fostering Agency

Civic Offices PO Box 140 New Road Grays Thurrock Essex RM17 6TJ

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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. Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 1

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Address

Civic Offices, PO Box 140, New Road, Grays Thurrock, Essex, RM17 6TJ

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Address

Civic Offices, PO Box 140, New Road, Grays Thurrock, Essex, RM17 6TJ

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Date of first registration Date of latest registration certificate

Date of last inspection 8/12/03 Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 2 Date of Inspection Visit 31st January 2005 ID Code

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Date of first registration Date of latest registration certificate

Name of Inspector 1 Jacqueline Graves 107597

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inspections and bring a different

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

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the time of inspection

Diane Keens – Fostering and Adoption Team Manager Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 3

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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 Thurrock Fostering Agency. 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. Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 5 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SERVICES PROVIDED. The fostering service inspected is funded and managed by Thurrock Council. The service is a significant aspect of the provision offered looked after children.

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INSPECTION VISITS

The office space is shared with adoption and shared care as well as fostering staff.

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INSPECTION VISITS

There are full time staff, part-time and a team manager in the fostering team with administration staff.

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INSPECTION VISITS

Some children entered fostering care in the last year with out of borough placements being made.

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INSPECTION VISITS

children left care over the same period. Thurrock Fostering Agency 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.) This fostering service has been inspected as required under the Care Standards Act 2000, the Fostering Service Regulations 2002 and the Children’s Act 1989 as amended. Areas to be progressed are listed in the Requirements and Recommendations section of the report. Any breaches in regulations that pose a more immediate risk to service users have been highlighted for urgent action.

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Inspector’s Summary

Records, practices, policies and procedures have only been sampled. At future inspections other issues may come to light when different items are sampled or different people are spoken to.

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Inspector’s Summary

The inspector spoke with a number of foster carers and children in their homes and met with a group of carers. The manager and fostering staff were interviewed within the service. A social worker from the Oaktree Resource Centre was spoken to and a visit made to the Centre to observe an after school club.

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Inspector’s Summary

Placing authorities, children and foster carers received questionnaires. A number of questionnaires from children, foster carers and placing social workers were returned. A panel meeting was attended and the chair of the panel interviewed. Files, policy and procedures and documents relating to recruitment were made available to the inspectors before and throughout the inspection.

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Inspector’s Summary

The service has responded well to requirements and recommendations made at the last inspection, despite the delay in receiving their report. The service is good at identifying areas that need improvement and building on strengths. The organisation is positive, forward thinking and child centred.

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The one standard assessed was met

Thurrock has produced a statement of purpose that includes all the required elements. It is updated to reflect any changes to the service. The children’s guide is being developed so that it is on a suitable format for children of differing abilities.

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Each of the two standards assessed were met

The service manager and manager of the fostering service have relevant experience of managing the fostering service. The manager is very experienced as a qualified social worker in children’s services and has embarked on a course that will lead to an MA in Social Work (Management). Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 7 Staff recruitment was seen generally to be robust but some further information must be on record.

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Each of the two standards assessed were met

Confusion over the allowances paid and perceived unfairness about the system of payments were issues raised by carers. Because of confusion and dissatisfaction with the allowances paid, the service ran a consultation day with carers to explore new payment structures and consulted them also through questionnaires.

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Each of the two standards assessed were met

The system of payments to carers has been reviewed and a new structure is proposed, linking allowances to training. The proposed new system will be simpler for carers to understand and more equitable. The fostering service has informed the Commission of any serious breaches of the regulations under Schedule 8 of the Fostering Service Regulations 2002, within twenty-fou hours.

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Each of the two standards assessed were met

There are clear lines of accountability within the service. Staff are clear about delegation in the event of absence.

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Seven of the nine standards assessed were met

Household reviews are carried out and health and safety checks are specifically detailed. Health and safety checks are carried out pre-approval.

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Seven of the nine standards assessed were met

Recruitment is targeted at specific groups as well as the general community. It is hoped that this will redress the shortage of carers from ethnic minority backgrounds. Female carers are regularly perceived as the ‘main carer’.

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Seven of the nine standards assessed were met

The service has an anti-bullying policy which carers were familiar with. Carers were supportive of children who bully or are bullied. They advocated on their behalf when children felt different because of their status, for example, when welfare calls made to schools identified the children as looked after.

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Seven of the nine standards assessed were met

Matching, in those families visited, was good. It was noted on other children’s files that gaps in matching were recorded for attention.

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Seven of the nine standards assessed were met

Foster carers are trained in safe care, including managing difficult behaviour and recognising signs of abuse.

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Seven of the nine standards assessed were met

Children report that they do have the opportunity to make their views known and generally feel listened to. Young people confirmed that they attended reviews on a regular basis.

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Seven of the nine standards assessed were met

There is a definite focus on developing young people's health care provision. There are individual health plans on file. There is a designated nurse involved in overseeing the health of looked after children and there is soon to be a designated doctor.

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Seven of the nine standards assessed were met

The inspector raised the issue of carers smoking in the same room as young people. Whilst smoking in front of children is not mentioned in the standards, apart form children under two, the inspector and staff felt that this would be detrimental to children’s health and health is generally promoted by the service. The service was asked to consider this when recruiting Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 8 carers and forming agreements.

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Seven of the nine standards assessed were met

Those carers visited placed a high priority on school attendance and supported young people with homework, trips and school activities. They also encouraged the wider education of young people, by encouraging hobbies and interests.

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Seven of the nine standards assessed were met

Young people who reach the age of 16 years are supported by the leaving care team in preparation for leaving care.

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Six of the eight standards assessed were met

Like many local authorities, Thurrock is short of foster carers. The service has invested in recruiting and marketing, appointing recruitment and marketing officer to address the shortage of carers. Their success in raising awareness of Thurrock Fostering and the recruitment of more carers was well regarded by staff.

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Six of the eight standards assessed were met

Link workers stated they often felt stretched to perform all the tasks required of them, particularly if colleagues are on sick leave and their work has to be absorbed, or if there is a crisis. Staff felt well supported and were getting regular supervision.

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Six of the eight standards assessed were met

Staff levels must be kept under review to ensure that supervision and all other work can be carried out well and that staff have manageable workloads.

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Six of the eight standards assessed were met

Carers meet informally to support each other. Formal meetings are also arranged at the Oaktree Centre and the Civic Centre for different groups of carers.

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Six of the eight standards assessed were met

Those managers and staff spoken to, said they received regular supervision. Foster carers generally made positive comments about the good support received from link workers but felt they were sometimes stretched and had too much to cope with. Supervision of carers had been irregular because of this.

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Six of the eight standards assessed were met

Comments about the support provided included the following:

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Six of the eight standards assessed were met

‘I do not feel that I could provide the best possible care for the young people placed with me without the support I receive from the fostering service and the wider network support of other departments, i.e. C.F.C.S. AND Oaktree Resource Centre.’

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Six of the eight standards assessed were met

‘Continuing care out of hours has been very supportive.’

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Six of the eight standards assessed were met

‘I think they are all committed to the job. They always listen.’

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Six of the eight standards assessed were met

A training coordinator has been appointed ,who is trying to address the problem of carers who have not attended training for a number of years and wage earners not typically attending training. Carers spoke of the improvement in the management of training since the coordinator’s appointment. Supervision is often just focussed on the main carer; this should be addressed in the service’s review of supervision.

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Each of the two standards assessed were met

Children’s records were well maintained. Foster carers kept diary records plus other relevant paperwork; they confirmed link workers checked these. Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 9 Carers were aware of the need to treat information held on children confidentially and store records securely.

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The one standard assessed was met

A health and safety officer visited the offices to make recommendations and share information with staff. Further computer terminals have been supplied and laptops provided for out of office work.

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The one standards assessed was met

There has been a consultation with carers regarding the system of allowances. The allowances have been reviewed and a new structure is proposed which links allowances to training.

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The one standard assessed was not met

The agency has taken steps to improve the quality and robustness of ‘Form F’ assessments to ensure the safety of young people through training for staff and this is an area which is improving. At the panel meeting observed, members identified any gaps in the assessment and explored them with the candidates and their assessors. A recommendation was made that the panel include someone who was fostered or whose child is fostered. Annual reviews are logged on the fostering service computer system and are flagged up when they need to be reviewed. The service is considering having annual reviews completed outside of the team.

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The one standard assessed was not met

Action has been taken to identify, recruit, assess, supervise and train carers in order to develop this area. The profile of this aspect of foster care has been raised. A shared care co-ordinator is involved in targeted recruitment; more carers have been recruited but there is still a shortage of carers, with approximately twelve children needing placements.

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The one standard assessed was met

Staff were clear that if there was an option of kinship care, this would be explored. On one visit to a foster home, a young person was in regular contact with a family member whilst they were assessed as a possible carer. The service provided to kinship carers has been developed. Carers described good support for the coordinator and each other through support groups and training.

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The one standard assessed was met

The inspector would like to thank the manager, staff, carers and children for their help with this inspection. Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 10

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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: YES 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:

The fostering service failed to fully meet regulations 3(3),14 and 17(1) of the Fostering Service Regulations 2002. Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 11

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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 It must be made clear that due to a fault of CSCI, the last report was delayed and Thurrock has not had sufficient time to respond to all requirements. CSCI apologises for that delay in producing the report.

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

1 3(3) FS1 The children’s guide to be designed in different formats to meet the needs of various groups of children.

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

This is partly met but more time is needed. See requireme nts of this report

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

10 14 FS17 Staffing levels to be kept under review to ensure that assessments and supervision and support to foster carers are sufficient. See requireme nts of this report

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

11 17(1) FS22 All foster carers must receive appropriate supervision. See requireme nts of this report

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

compliance with the above requirements. Thurrock Fostering Agency 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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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 3(3) FS1 The children’s guide to be designed in different formats to meet the needs of various groups of children.

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This is partly met but more time is needed

2 14 FS17 Staffing levels to be kept under review to ensure that assessments and supervision and support to foster carers are sufficient. Ongoing

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This is partly met but more time is needed

3 17(1) FS22 All foster carers must receive appropriate supervision. Ongoing

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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 Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 14 1 FS6 That carers are made aware that they could be interviewed or visited as part of the Commission’s inspection process.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

That the fostering service ensures that transport provided for children is safe and appropriate to their needs.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

That children sharing rooms does not happen unless full information is known about a child and the risk to others in the home has been assessed.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

2 FS7 Greater use of the voluntary sector should be used to develop links and knowledge of ethnic minorities, religious, cultural and linguistic background.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

3 FS8 that the agency place children according to their placement plan.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

4 FS12 That the service review its recruitment process and agreements with regards to approving carers who smoke.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

6 FS22 That independent support is provided to foster carers during an investigation.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

7 FS23 That the service considers making it clear to new carers that there is an expectation that they attend suitable training and that joint carers both attend.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

8 FS28 The current system of payments to foster carers to be simplified.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

9 FS30 Panel members to receive further training including observing other panel meetings. That one of the independent panel members is a person who has been placed with foster carers or whose child has at any time been placed with foster carers.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

10 FS17FS31 Further carers need to be recruited to meet the needs of children and families.

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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.

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

The following inspection methods have been used in the production of this report Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 15 Number of inspector days spent 15

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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 NO • Specialist advisor (s) YES • 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 NO 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 31/1/05 Time of Inspection 1000 Duration Of Inspection (hrs) 100 Thurrock Fostering Agency 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. Thurrock Fostering Agency 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 New staff are given a copy of the statement of purpose and discuss its contents during supervision. Staff confirmed that they receive a copy of the statement of purpose whenever it is updated.

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

The children’s guide can also be provided in languages other than English. It is being developed so that it is available in audio and video form, to suit children of all ages and abilities. More time is needed to develop this, hence the requirement made at the last inspection is repeated. Thurrock Fostering Agency 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 manager of the fostering service also manages the adoption service. She is very experienced, working in children’s services since 1983 as a social worker and as a senior practitioner within the team since 1994.

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

She has CQSW and a Bsc. Hons. Social Work. The manager has embarked on a course that will lead to an MA in Social Work (Management) on completion.

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

The manager works closely with the service manager and head of service; all are child focussed in their decision-making.

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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 The service confirmed that current CRB checks are available for all staff.

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

Written references had been followed up with telephone calls. Thurrock Fostering Agency 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 Staff were aware of the need to report any conflicts of interest.

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

There are statements of the amounts paid to foster carers but, as mentioned elsewhere, the system of payments is being reviewed and clarified.

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

There are established lines of communication and accountability between staff, managers and carers.

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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: 4

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

Death of a child placed with foster parents. X

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

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

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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. 1 Initiation of child protection enquiry involving a child. 1

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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: 0 Number of the above complaints which were substantiated: 0

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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 service is managed efficiently and effectively. The manager reports clear, supportive relationships with the management structure. The head of service has overall responsibility for all children looked after services.

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Standard 5 (5.1 - 5.4)

A practice manager is identified as being in charge in the manager’s absence. Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 20

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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 Carers said their homes were inspected annually. Those homes visited were warm, clean and comfortably furnished.

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

Health and safety issues are discussed as part of training and detailed in household reviews. Carers confirmed that staff enquire about vehicles used to transport children but do not ask to see MOT documents, insurance, car seats, etc. It is recommended that the fostering service ensure that transport provided for children is safe and appropriate to their needs.

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

Most children have their own bedroom but there are cases of birth children sharing and of children sharing when a new child has been brought to the home in an emergency. The latter is of particular concern, as often carers do not have full information about a child when they are placed, for example a child seeking asylum, and this could pose a risk of abuse or bullying. The service hopes that by recruiting more carers there will be less need for children to share bedrooms. It is recommended that sharing rooms does not happen unless full information is known about a child and the risk to others in the home has been assessed.

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

Some carers were not aware that they could be interviewed or visited as part of the Commission’s process. It is recommended that this information be disseminated to carers.

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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 Thurrock has made started to make use of the voluntary sector to develop links and knowledge of ethnic minorities, religious, cultural and linguistic background but plans to develop further links. Specific packages are set-up for individual children, for example by advertising for links with a minority ethnic group who are not living in the Thurrock area.

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

Carers visited were aware of the backgrounds of the children they cared for. Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 21

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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 Staff regarded a colleague to be very skilled in the initial matching of children to carers. In those families visited there was evidence of good matching.

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

However, one child‘s plan had been for them to be placed in a home where they were the only child and other children had been placed there. Whilst acknowledging that this was a very successful placement, it is recommended that the agency place children according to their placement plan.

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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 Carers spoke of the safe caring training they had attended, which included information on protecting children from abuse. They described practical rules they enforced amongst the children to promote safe care.

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

Those carers spoken to, said they were aware that no corporal punishments could be used. They described using sanctions, such as preventing a child from going out with friends, banning playstations or rewards, such as a trip to the cinema, to manage behaviour.

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

A carer described training on bullying as being useful in dealing with bullies and the bullied.

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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 Carers were clear about contact arrangements and these were clearly recorded on those children’s files seen. An example was seen of children requesting a change to their contact arrangements and this being responded to by the agency. A carer felt that the child they cared for had been pushed into contact with a family member when they didn’t want this and felt the social worker listened to the relative rather than the child. Generally children and carers felt listened to regarding contact arrangements and stated that the wishes of children regarding contact would be given priority.

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

An independent visitor was frequently in touch with young person without any family contact.

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

The Oaktree Centre is used as a neutral meeting place for some contact. Thurrock Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 22 encourages carers to facilitate contact in their own homes if this is appropriate and suitable for the child. Due to negative experiences, some carers were reluctant to have contact in their homes and felt their home should remain as a place of security and refuge for the children they looked after.

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

Commenting on what they do to facilitate contact, carers wrote:

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

They (children) control who and what relative they want to see. Family call and see children in our home.’

p.24

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

‘Encourage child to attend contact sessions and if old enough, talk on the phone. Invite parents to hospital and routine tests.’

p.24

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? 3 Children confirmed that they attended reviews on a regular basis and their views were listened to and considered.

p.24

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

‘When I go to meetings (reviews etc.) they ask me do I agree or not agree and ask for my opinions.’

p.24

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

Young people said they were asked about:

p.24

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

‘ Ideas on places to go and my opinion how things are in the household.’

p.24

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

‘ Holidays, what we want for dinner, etc.’

p.24

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

‘Things on the news, my education, music, films and everything a normal 16 year old would talk about.’

p.24

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

Young people said they knew how to make a complaint and this is detailed in the children’s guide. Link workers usually make contact with the young person during visits to carers, depending on the timing of the visits and the young people’s availability.

p.24

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

In questionnaires, 86.96% of children who responded, said the foster service had asked them their opinions about their foster carers, and 8.70% said they had not been asked. In response to the question, ‘Do your foster carers ask you for your opinions and ideas?’ 60.87% said yes, 28.09 said ‘they ask me sometimes’ and 13.04% said they don’t ask me very often.

p.24

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

Many activities provided by the service and by Oaktree Resource Centre have been Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 23 developed from the expressed wishes of looked after children.

p.24

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 There was evidence of excellent follow-up of referrals to specialist services. The service has use of a nurse who is involved in arranging G.P.’s, statutory medicals, reports for panel and who is an excellent resource.

p.25

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

Health plans were on children’s files and there was evidence that health appointments were made and followed up by carers.

p.25

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

Some carers seen, were innovative in their approach to the health care of young people and had researched such things as food allergies and diet to promote their well-being.

p.25

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

Some of the children looked after by shared carers, need invasive procedures to maintain their health and Thurrock buys in training specifically for those carers . The children’s’ parents observe the carer carry out the procedure to decide if they are competent.

p.25

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

The inspector discussed children being placed with carers who smoke and the implications for young people’s health. The issue of carers smoking in the presence of young people is something which the service will consider when recruiting carers and as part of the general health promotion of young people. It is recommended that the service review its recruitment process and agreements with regards to approving carers who smoke.

p.25

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 The inspector visited a foster home where education of the young people had been promoted and supported by the carers. The young people were encouraged to complete their homework as a priority before other activities took place. The carers had attended meetings at the school.

p.25

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

In another home, a decision had been made to support a young person at their school, involving considerable travel, to ensure continuity for their education and to help them maintain contact with friends. Extra tuition had been provided to meet this young person’s Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 24 specific educational needs and participation in hobbies and interests encouraged to help develop their self-esteem.

p.25

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

Both the carers and young people were not happy with the children’s attendance at school being monitored on a daily basis by the education department as they felt this stigmatised the young people and identified them as looked-after. The carers had complained about this on the children’s behalf.

p.26

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

PEP’S and IEP’s were seen on those children’s files examined. There is a designated teacher for looked after children.

p.26

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 Carers encourage children to develop skills to help them become independent at all ages.

p.26

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

When young people reach the age of fifteen, the Leaving Care Team and the Continuing Care Team support their care. Pathway plans are independently reviewed. Carers are expected to help prepare young people for the next stage of their lives.

p.26

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

The service has identified training needs for carers of adolescents on preparation for independence.

p.26

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

Savings accounts for children were discussed with carers and staff. It was generally felt that young people should be encouraged to save. The practice of carers encouraging children to save and young people possessing a savings account was discussed. It was particularly felt that young people when leaving care should have savings to help them. The issue of what to do with the government’s payments of £250 to children born after 2002 was discussed. This is not related to standards but was discussed with managers and left with them to consider. Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 25

p.26

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 The recruitment details of three members of staff were checked. CRB checks were available for all staff and references obtained.

p.27

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

Recruitment procedures were generally robust. However, on one file there was a reference which was not suitable, so a further reference should have been sought. The reference request letter did not ask for any concerns about the employee working with children and on another file there were no copies of qualifications gained.

p.27

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

It is required that all information required in Schedule 1 for people seeking to work at the fostering service, are obtained.

p.27

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

foster care service. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 0 This standard was not inspected on this occasion. Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 26

p.27

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 Staffing levels have been increased from three to six link workers to provide the necessary levels of support and supervision to carers. However, the service is aware of the need to monitor staff workloads to prevent caseloads becoming unmanageable, for example when staff are on long term sickness leave.

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

The service is also aware of the need to match staffing to the increasing numbers of carers. At the time of inspection, twenty-six prospective carers were being processed, with consideration being given to appointing one more link worker.

p.28

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

The issue of there not being sufficient link workers was frequently raised by carers in person. In pre-inspection questionnaires, 34% of respondents said they did not think there was enough staff in the fostering service.

p.28

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

Despite the extra recruitment, staff described being ‘stretched’ at times to fulfil their duties and some carers felt there was not enough staff. Comments on questionnaires included:

p.28

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

‘They do as good as job as they can. They are overstretched and so you can sometimes feel neglected.’

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

‘I think they do a sterling job but are overworked.’

p.28

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

‘The people whom I have dealt with have done an excellent job but I often feel they are stretched to the limit.’

p.28

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

Whilst acknowledging the steps the agency is taking to monitor workloads and to recruit further link workers, the perception of some staff and some carers is that there is insufficient staff. Therefore, the requirement made at the last inspection, that the fostering service provides a sufficient number of staff, is repeated.

p.28

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

Like most authorities, Thurrock needs more quality carers. The agency had been proactive in trying to increase the number of carers available, to prevent young people being placed out of area and to decrease the use of private fostering agencies.

p.28

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

Increased investment in the service has seen the appointment of a marketing and recruitment manager (with administrative support) . Staff spoke highly of the positive effects this has had on recruitment and on raising the profile of Thurrock Fostering.

p.28

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

A call centre now handles initial enquiries and information packs are sent out on the day of enquiry. Initial visits are undertaken within two weeks, checks initiated and information passed to the training officer to ensure candidates are invited to the next available training. This is an efficient use of resources and ensures people do not lose interest or go to other agencies because of a lack of response.

p.28

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

Training will be provided for existing assessors and for those workers who are not used to writing Form F assessments. Managers use an audit tool to gauge the quality of the assessments and accompany the assessor on one visit to prospective carers. The agency has put these measures in place to ensure that all assessments are thorough and safe. Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 27

p.28

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 out-of-hours service was well regarded by carers.

p.29

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

The service has policies and procedures available for staff and carers, including a health and safety policy.

p.29

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 Staff follow a council and TOPSS induction programme for approximately four weeks. They will then shadow experienced staff for approximately six months. All staff have to attend core training, including child protection, then follow intermediate training. All staff have ECDL and supervision training and any training specific to their role.

p.29

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

All staff are encouraged to apply for further professional courses, such as masters, diplomas and counselling courses.

p.29

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

Team meetings are held frequently and training needs are identified then.

p.29

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

The support for training by the authority is impressive and appreciated by staff.

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Standard 20 (20.1 - 20.5)

All staff are properly accountable and supported. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Those link workers spoken to felt supported in their role and were getting regular supervision. Some felt supported by the staff team but increasingly overstretched with all the tasks they have to do plus absorbing the work of colleagues when on sick leave.

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Standard 20 (20.1 - 20.5)

Staff job descriptions were seen on file. Staff have access to the policies and procedures of the agency. Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 28

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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? 3 The agency is reviewing the duty system, as this is quite an arduous task for staff at the moment. Good practice in other local authorities is being considered to identify how Thurrock can improve the duty system.

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Standard 21 (21.1 - 21.6)

Support groups meet across the range of carers. The need for support group for male carers was identified and arranged. Carers described the out-of-hours support as being good.

p.30

Standard 21 (21.1 - 21.6)

The SELF project at the Oaktree Centre is regarded as a good resource by carers and staff. Therapeutic services are offered to support placements. Staff felt there was a gap in therapeutic services for children with learning disabilities.

p.30

Standard 21 (21.1 - 21.6)

The recorded supervision of some carers had not been regular enough because of staff shortages due to sickness. It was noted that a professional queried the quality of supervision leading to a deregistration.

p.30

Standard 21 (21.1 - 21.6)

Some staff felt supervision was too long and could be repetitive. This is being reviewed.

p.30

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 Management monitors the frequency of supervision. The service is reviewing the supervision format; some staff felt the process too long, repetitive and unfocussed. Where there are two carers, it is usual that the main carer is supervised.

p.30

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

Staff and managers are attending training on the purpose of supervision and role of supervisors.

p.30

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

One carer described feeling isolated from the agency when an allegation was made against them. They did find support from fellow carers. It is recommended that independent support be provided to foster carers during an investigation.

p.30

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

their care. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Pre-approval and induction training is provided for all prospective carers. The training includes using experienced carers. One ,who has been involved in training ,felt this was essential to give prospective carers a realistic view of fostering.

p.30

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

Carers and staff felt there had been great improvements in the planning and quality of the training provided since the appointment of the current training co-ordinator. Carers spoken to felt the training was suitable to theirs and the children’s needs.

p.30

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

The training co-ordinator is trying to address the problem of men, who, often as wage earners, are not able to attend training by arranging this on weekends, evenings and with Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 29 male trainers.

p.30

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

The perceived need for training varied widely amongst carers from some trying to attend everything on offer, to some not attending any training for a number of years.

p.31

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

Fostering agreements say that carers ‘will endeavour to attend all training agreed appropriate.’ Staff said that some carers are reluctant to attend training. Some carers felt that some training should be compulsory for all carers. There is an expectation that carers for the Phoenix Project will develop their skills through further training. Thurrock is considering using payments as an incentive for carers to undertake training and development.

p.31

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

It was noted that where two adults are approved as joint carers, sometimes only one had attended training.

p.31

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

It is recommended that the service consider making it clear to new carers that there is an expectation that they attend suitable training and that joint carers both attend. It is acknowledged that the service is already trying to address this.

p.31

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

Some kinship carers said they were initially reluctant to attend training, feeling that their experience of raising children was sufficient to help them carry out the role and because they had not attended any kind of training for a long time. However, they had enjoyed training and learning new things, finding it useful to them in their role.

p.31

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

There is a creative and responsive approach to training. The feasibility of training at weekends/evenings to meet the needs of wage earners is being explored; as well as courses, the service will also look at using books, web sites or putting carers in touch with people who have expertise to meet individual learning needs. Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 30

p.31

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.32

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.32

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 Those children’s records seen were well organised and maintained. Foster carers were aware that records they keep on behalf of children must be treated confidentially and stored securely.

p.32

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

Carers were able to talk to children about their families and past histories to help the make sense of past events.

p.32

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 Those records checked were dated and signed. Comments were written in a professional, non-stigmatising way.

p.32

The fostering service's administrative records contain all significant information

The service has a system of storing complaints and allegations separately. Confidential records are stored securely and staff were aware of the need for confidentiality.

p.32

The fostering service's administrative records contain all significant information

The inspector was advised that computer records are only accessible via individual passwords.

p.32

The fostering service's administrative records contain all significant information

Number of current foster placements supported by the agency: 128 Number of placements made by the agency in the last 12 months: X

p.32

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

p.32

The intended outcome for the following standard is:

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

p.33

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 agency is based in the main council offices, which are easily accessible to the public, carers and social workers.

p.33

Standard 26 (26.1 - 26.5)

Since the last inspection, improvements have been made to the office-working environment for staff. The manager advised that all staff now have access to a computer and use of a laptop when off-site. Some staff mentioned preferring to work at home when writing reports as the office is a noisy environment. A health and Safety officer assessed the workplace and gave information on the heights of desks, chairs and so on.

p.33

Standard 26 (26.1 - 26.5)

The offices are close to those of the head of service and to other children’s teams. A room is available in the fostering / adoption offices for meetings. A panel meeting and carers support group were held in the corporate meeting rooms. Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 32

p.33

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.34

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 This standard was not inspected on this occasion.

p.34

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? 0 This standard was not inspected on this occasion. Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 33

p.34

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 The allowance paid to carers was raised as an issue in discussion with them.

p.35

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

There was dissatisfaction that named carers receive 80% of the allowance given to other carers and that they had not received a breakdown of the allowance; the coordinator said this would be provided.

p.35

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

Thurrock has undertaken an initial review of the allowances paid to carers, looking in detail at the payment schemes of other local authorities. The service was seeking further investment to ensure that carers allowances could be kept at competitive levels and so that a new fee paying scheme could be introduced. As payments are being reviewed and increased payments linked to training proposed, no recommendations are made for this standard. Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 34

p.35

The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

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

p.36

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 A panel meeting was observed and the inspector met with the panel chair afterwards. The panel scrutinised ‘Form F’ assessments and explored any perceived gaps in information about the prospective carers.

p.36

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

Panel are provided with criteria to consider when examining the ‘Form F’ assessments prior to panel meetings.

p.36

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

The recommendation that panel members receive further training including observing other panel meetings is being considered. This recommendation is repeated and it is also recommended that one of the independent panel members is a person who has been placed with foster carers or whose child has at any time been placed with foster carers. Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 35

p.36

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.

p.37

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 There are twenty-two specific families who are able to provide short–term respite placements, particularly for children with disabilities. In addition there are four befrienders; a befriending service has been developed for some older children who have disabilities.

p.37

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

Thurrock has tried to develop this service by recruiting more carers and is targeting recruitment at specific groups. The coordinator for shared care is actively involved in recruitment. It is estimated that shared care is not being provided to twelve children at the moment, as there are not enough carers. There is also a need to recruit more shared carers for older children.

p.37

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

Support, training and supervision is in place for this specific group of carers. The shared care service has produced a policy and procedures.

p.37

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

As in standard 17, it is required that further carers are recruited to meet the needs of children and families. Comments made by shared carers about the service included:

p.37

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

‘Shared care is a very positive aspect of fostering and although it is for children with a disability, I think it could be valuable in ‘normal’ fostering situations.’

p.37

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

‘Small unitary authority can respond quickly. They are accessible. They are forward thinking.’ Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 36

p.37

The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

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

p.38

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

carers. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The agency considers friends and family first as possible carers whenever appropriate. Thurrock has developed the service it offers to named carers; most now have a supervising social worker and receive monthly supervision and support.

p.38

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

The inspector attended a support group for named carers, which meets regularly. Some said they had felt they did not need to be involved with Thurrock when first becoming carers but had benefited by being able to share problems with other carers and by getting support and advice from the supervising social worker, for example, on contact, behaviour management and school exclusion. Some said that on reflection they realised how isolated they had been.

p.38

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

The supervising social worker with responsibility for named carers was seen to advocate on carers behalf and to raise their profile within the service.

p.38

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

All named carers are invited to training and fostering events. The training advisor visited the group to explain how training is allocated and how they could access it. Carers spoke positively of the support and training provided. Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 37

p.38

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 31 st January, 2005 and any factual inaccuracies:

p.40

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

Please limit your comments to one side of A4 if possible Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 39

p.40

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

Amendments to the report were necessary NO

p.41

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

Comments were received from the provider YES

p.41

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

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

p.41

Action taken by the CSCI 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

p.41

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.

p.41

report:

Action plan was received at the point of publication YES

p.41

report:

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

p.41

report:

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

p.41

report:

Provider has declined to provide an action plan NO

p.41

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. Thurrock Fostering Agency Page 40

p.41

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

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

p.42

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.

p.42

Thurrock Fostering Agency / 31st January, 2005

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

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Thurrock Fostering Agency / 31st January, 2005

Telephone: 020 7979 2000 Fax: 020 7979 2111

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Thurrock Fostering Agency / 31st January, 2005

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

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Thurrock Fostering Agency / 31st January, 2005

S0000056087.V202139.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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Thurrock Fostering Agency / 31st January, 2005

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

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