Setting

Service

14 Hounds Gate Nottingham Nottinghamshire NG1 7BE

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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. Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 1

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Name of Authority

Nottingham City Council Fostering Service

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Address

14 Hounds Gate, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, NG1 7BE

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Fax No: Address

14 Hounds Gate, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, NG1 7BE

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Date of first registration Date of latest registration certificate

Date of last inspection 31/03/04 Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 2 Date of Inspection Visit 16th March 2005 ID Code

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inspections and bring a different

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

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Name of Establishment Representative at

the time of inspection Sonia Cain/Lynn Anderson Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 3

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D.3. Provider’s agreement

Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 4

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

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

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

This document summarises the inspection findings of the CSCI in respect of Nottingham City Council Fostering Service. 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. Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 5 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SERVICES PROVIDED. The city council fostering service is a Local Authority service that provides: -

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INSPECTION VISITS

The number of Approved Foster Carers provided by the service was167 and the number of children being provided with foster placements was 289 at the time of inspection.

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INSPECTION VISITS

The service is based at York House, 2 nd Floor, Mansfield Rd, Nottingham.

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INSPECTION VISITS

The foster service is split into The Recruitment Team, The Assessment Team, The Home from Home Team and The Support Teams (which includes the Black Support Team which supports black foster carers). Nottingham City Council Fostering Service 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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questionnaire was received. Due to an oversight by the inspector a children’s group

was not visited. The inspector visited a carer’s group that was well represented.

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Statement of Purpose (standard 1)

This standard was partially met. The Statement of Purpose related to all areas as defined under NMS. However this document required to be updated. The children’s guide was not designed for children with disabilities and different age ranges.

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Fitness to provide or manage a fostering service (standards 2&3)

The one standard assessed was met. The manager of the fostering service is in the progress of being assessed by CSCI to ensure that they are suitable to the role.

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Management of the fostering service (standards 4 & 5)

These standards were not inspected at this time. Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 7

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Securing and promoting welfare (standards 6 to 14)

The eight standards assessed were all met. Overall foster homes were found to be of a high standard, offering warm clean and comfortably furnished accommodation and well maintained. The agency has a Black Support team that addresses the specific needs of black carers and the black children in placement. All young people spoken with stated they were happy in their placements and get on well with their carers. All foster carers complete child protection training during the preparation to care course. Carers described a variety of ways they support and encourage contact. NCH provides an Advocacy service for young people to assist them during their time in foster care. Young people recorded on their questionnaires that they are encouraged to eat healthily and attend dentist and optician appointments. The majority of young people respondents to the questionnaire stated they receive help and encouragement with

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(Standards 15 to 23)

Out of the six standards assessed three were met and three were partially met. There was no photograph ID on staff files. Staff presented as very experienced and skilled in working with wide range of carers. Interviews with support and supervising social worker’s evidenced that they felt supported by the management team. Formal supervision of carers was not clear on their files. A number of carers raised concerns about late payment of expenses. Newly approved foster carers had completed a foundation course as part of their assessment.

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Records (standards 24 & 25)

Out of the two standards assessed one was met and one was partially met. Children’s files that were inspected were detailed and well recorded. Inspectors considered that a number of foster care files seen were poorly organised and not standardised.

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Fitness of premises for use as fostering service (standard26)

This standard was not met. Inspectors were concerned with the storage of confidential information within the offices as a number of files were seen not securely locked within appropriate cabinets after working hours.

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Financial requirements (standards 27 to 29)

The one standard assessed was not met. Carers remain concerned about the variable way in which additional expenses were approved. Questionnaires and interviews reflected this concern.

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Fostering Panels (standard 30)

This standard was met and considered commendable. The panel’s processes were considered robust and clear.

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Short-term breaks (standard 31)

This standard was not assessed at this time.

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Family and friends as carers (standard 32)

This standard was not inspected at this time. Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 8

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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:

. Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 9

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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 Please see ‘statutory requirements identified during this inspection’

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

compliance with the above requirements. Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 10

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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

Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 11

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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

7 & 20 schedule 1 FS15 Full and satisfactory information needs to be available on all staff including positive proof of identity including a recent photograph.

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This requirement remains outstanding

2 29(2) FS22 Foster carers approval were not all annually reviewed. 1.08.05

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This requirement remains outstanding

3 23 FS26 All children’s and foster carers’ records need to be stored in adequate secure storage.

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from the last inspection

1.08.05 Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 12

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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 FS1 The statement of purpose is recommended to be reviewed at least annually.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

2 FS1 The children’ s guide is recommended to be in a format available for differing age groups and children with disabilities.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

3 FS21 There should be clear documented recording of supervision on all foster carers files.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

4 FS24 Information of children placed with foster carers should be up to date on the carer’s file.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

5 FS25 All case records for children and foster carers’ should comply with the written policy on recording.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

6 FS29 All payments of additional expenses to foster carers should be made promptly.

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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. Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 13

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

The following inspection methods have been used in the production of this report Number of Inspector days spent 8

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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 YES • Child protection officer YES • 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 YES • 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 YES 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 16/03/05 Time of Inspection 10:00 Duration Of Inspection (hrs) 64 Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 14 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. Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 15

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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 The statement of purpose was available for inspectors. All areas as recommended under 1.4 had been met. However it was noticeable that the document required updating as figures for numbers of carers and children placed were not accurate The children’s guide was not available for different age groups or children with disabilities. However the guide does give a good introduction to the fostering service and what young people should expect of their care.

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See advisory recommendations 1 and 2

Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 16

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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? 0 This standard was not inspected at this time.

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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 Sonia Cain has been assessed as suitable for the role as registered manager and is suitably qualified. Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 17

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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? 0 This standard was not inspected at this time

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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: 0

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

Death of a child placed with foster parents. 1

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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. 3 Initiation of child protection enquiry involving a child. 3

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

Number of complaints made to CSCI about the agency in the past 12 months: 0 Number of the above complaints which were substantiated: 1

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Standard 5 (5.1 - 5.4)

The fostering service is managed effectively and efficiently. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 0 This standard was not inspected at this time Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 18

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The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

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

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

nurturing environment. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Inspectors visited three foster homes during the inspection. One visit had to be cancelled at short notice due to the foster carer not being well. Overall these homes were found to be of a high standard, offering warm clean and comfortably furnished accommodation and well maintained. Health and safety checks are carried out on an annual basis and referred to during the review of foster carers. These were evidenced in carer’s files.

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

provided with foster care services which value diversity and promote equality. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The agency has a Black Support team that addresses the specific needs of black carers’ and the black children in placement. A report from a project has recently been completed that identifies the needs of young black children in foster care. This was shown to the inspector. There were 88 black children placed in foster care. Twenty-eight children were placed in transracial placements (see standard 17). The fostering service produces an excellent directory of black resources within the city. Training on diversity and anti-discriminatory practice is reflected in the preparation courses for new carers as well as courses arranged throughout the year. Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 19

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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? 3 All young people spoken with stated they were happy in their placements and get on well with their carers. Questionnaires further evidenced that young people felt that the foster carers are looking after them well. Carer’s referred to the matching of carer’s to young people to be ‘too rushed’ and that it sometimes feels as if there is little planning. A number of carers responded that they did not see the young people before they came to stay with them. New foster carers, who were about to have their first placement, not been introduced to the children. This was fed back to the supervising social worker at the time of this inspection. Exemptions have been reduced over the last 12 months (see standard 17).

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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 All foster carers complete child protection training during the preparation to care course. Further awareness training is organised throughout the year. As part of the assessment process all perspective foster carers have been CRB checked at the enhanced level. Safe caring training is also available and undertaken during the preparation to care course. Information on safe caring was not available in the carer’s handbook but had been distributed separately. Child protection inquiries were recorded and monitored by senior managers.

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

Young people’s questionnaires did not identify bullying as a problem at this time. All young people are given a children’s guide in which numbers for support agencies are identified. Young people can also write to the assistant director via a confidential post card if they have concerns about the care they receive.

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being bullied:

X % Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 20

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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 described a variety of ways they support and encourage contact, This included transporting children, helping them to make phone calls and, in some instances, supervising contact. LAC forms inspected referred to contact arrangements. Review minutes reflected that contact is discussed on a frequent basis. Case tracking on two files highlighted that contact was very well promoted and recorded on file. Young people spoken to said that the arrangements for contact was fine.

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

daily life and their future. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 NCH provides an Advocacy service for young people to assist them during their time in foster care. This is commissioned through NCH young people in fostering. The Best Value Review of Children Looked After consulted with young people on the service they receive. 39 out of 43 questionnaires responded to from children felt that they were asked for their opinions about their foster carers. Files evidenced consultation with young people and foster carers, as part of the LAC documentation and reviewing process.

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

in decisions about her/his health needs. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Young people recorded on their questionnaires that they are encouraged to eat healthily and attend dentist and optician appointments. LAC forms identified health needs of young people as well as statutory reviews. Some carers were unclear as to what to include in medical notes. Inspectors were shown a pro- forma which carers should be logging medication, accidents and contact. However not all carers had these forms. The Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS), based at Thorneywood hospital, provided individual sessions for children in foster care as well as input into joint training (see standard 23). Support is also available from the Physical health team based in the Children’s Centre at the City hospital. Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 21

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

her/his full potential. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The majority of young people respondents to the questionnaire stated they receive help and encouragement with schoolwork in their foster home: “ I get encouraged to do my homework and to work hard”. All foster carers received a handbook, ‘The Education of children and young people in Public Care’ from the agency. This was recognised by carers and social workers to be a useful guide. The agency has a dedicated Education Liaison Manager who works with foster carers and social workers to address any educational difficulties. As part of this manager’s remit is to offer training and guidance. A task group called ‘Education of Children Looked After’ meets six weekly to promote and address the educational achievements of all children in Local Authority care. This includes residential as well as fostering.

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

competence and knowledge necessary for adult living. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 0 This standard was not inspected at this time Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 22

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The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

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

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

sufficient to achieve the purposes and functions of the organisation.

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

children and young people and to safeguard and promote their welfare. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 Recruitment and selection of staff is done centrally.

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

Four staff files were inspected. All had up to date CRB checks at the enhanced level. References, including from the last employer, were on file. There was no recorded evidence of referee’s being contacted by telephone although the files looked at were not of new staff. There was no photograph ID on these files.

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

foster care service. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 0 This standard was not inspected at this time. Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 23

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

people for whom it aims to provide a service. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Nottingham City fostering service has 167 present carers approved that are caring for 289 children and young people. There are 40 exemptions to initial foster carers approvals as of March 2005. These include carers going over numbers, children placed outside of cares approval age range and 28 transracial placements. There were 89 black children fostered. Staff presented as very experienced and skilled in working with wide range of carers. All social workers are qualified. A Post Qualification strategy was in operation. At the time of this inspection there was concerns regarding the terms and conditions between the fostering workers to that of their colleagues in childcare teams. A member of staff commented that the difference in conditions of service was affecting morale within the teams. A dedicated team undertook recruitment of carers. Regular meetings between teams and

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

managers ensured that the recruitment team were aware of the needs of the type of foster carers required.

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

practices and good support for its staff and carers. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Interviews with support and supervising social worker’s evidenced that they felt supported by the management team. Staff presented as knowledgeable and committed to the work. Supervisions are held monthly, as are team meetings. These are all minuted. A citywide meeting is held for all staff on a quarterly basis. Social worker’s are able to attend in-house training. Joint training between social workers and foster carers is encouraged. An out of hour’s service is staffed by volunteers from the fostering teams.

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

staff up-to-date with professional and legal developments. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 0 This standard was not inspected at this time Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 24

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Standard 20 (20.1 - 20.5)

All staff are properly accountable and supported. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 0 This standard was not inspected at this time

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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? 2 All carers, including kinship carers, have an allocated supervising social worker who carries out regular visits in the foster carer’s home. Carers have an opportunity to attend a range of courses such as children with disability, first aid and the Webster Stratton Programme. This is a 12-week programme focusing upon parenting skill using a number of exercises (see standard 23). Formal supervision of cares was not clear on their files. Some social workers record supervision with their carers whilst others do not. Policy on supervision was not within the carers handbook Out of hours support was available up until 11pm. This is voluntary run on a rota system by social workers in the teams. Carers groups meet regularly. Groups are run in different areas of the county. One group

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Standard 21 (21.1 - 21.6)

offers peer support for black foster carers.

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

and helps them to develop their skills. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 The fostering service provides an independent Reviewing Officer to chair all annual reviews for carers. This review process considers the positives and the training needs of carers. An annual report from this reviewing officer identified a backlog of carers who have not had an annual review this year. Some carers stated they have not received copies of the Handbook, which is presently being updated. They were aware of the procedures in respect of complaints, allegations and investigations. There is an identified individual from another agency who can provide support for carers during allegations made against carers. Supervision of carers was not always recorded on carer’s files. Foster care agreements were detailed and informative. A number of carers raised concerns about late payment of additional allowances that are

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

processed by the child’s placing social worker .

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See requirement 2

Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 25

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

their care. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Newly approved foster carers had completed a foundation course as part of their assessment. This included child protection training and safe caring awareness. Foster carers commented positively about this course. The inspector discussed with two trainers who work in fostering and the CAMHS team, the Webster Stratton Training programme for foster carers. There were 14 foster carers attending this course, which focuses upon good parenting skills. The inspector was informed that the course had been previously piloted. A trainee psychologist was monitoring evaluation and feedback from carers. This included a recall interview some three months after the course to identify the outcomes for carers. Discussion with carers identified a range of courses. Some carers felt that the timing of these courses could be improved and that childcare is not always considered. Training is

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

linked to the experience and level of the foster carer. The fostering panel chair explained that she reports back to the assistant director any training needs identified for foster carers. Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 26

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The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

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

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

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

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

anyone involved in her/his care. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Case notes and information is copied to the fostering file from the children’s social work file (in al loose leaf file). Some of these notes, such as LAC documentation, were out of date, as the children had left the foster home. Children’s files that were inspected were detailed and well recorded. Questionnaires from foster carers evidenced that most of the time carer’s were adequately informed about the backgrounds of children placed with them. Foster carers have the opportunity to attend Life Story Work training.

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The fostering service's administrative records contain all significant information

relevant to the running of the foster care service and as required by regulations. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 The service had separate files for fostering, supervision of staff, complaints and allegations and any significant events. Further records of complaints were detailed within computer files. Inspectors noted a number of differences between the two lists. Access to records by young people is arranged via the City Council’s Data Protection Officer. A children’s register and carer’s records were completed on an excel document. Overall inspectors considered that a number of foster care files seen were poorly organised and not standardised. For instance some files had typed entries whilst others were handwritten. The use of correction fluid on documents was also noted. This was discussed during feedback after the inspection.

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See advisory recommendation 5

Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 27 Number of current foster placements supported by the agency: 167 Number of placements made by the agency in the last 12 months: 52

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months:

Number of new foster carers approved during the last 12 months: 57 Number of foster carers who left the agency during the last 12 months: 62

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Maximum £

191.51 Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 28

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The intended outcome for the following standard is:

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

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Standard 26 (26.1 - 26.5)

Premises used as offices by the fostering service are appropriate for the purpose. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 The office occupies the second floor of a large building in the city centre of Nottingham. It is identifiable and accessible during office hours. Inspectors were concerned with the storage of confidential information within the offices as a number of files were seen not securely locked within appropriate cabinets after working hours. The access to IT and the use of email for support and supervising social workers was considered inadequate. Staff reported that the system is in need of an overhaul.

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See requirement 3

Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 29

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The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

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

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

resources to fulfil its obligations. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 9 This standard was not inspected due to the service being a local authority provision and exempt from Regulation 44.

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

in accordance with sound and appropriate accounting standards and practice. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 9 This standard was not inspected due to the service being a local authority provision and exempt from Regulation 44. Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 30

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

made promptly and at the agreed time. Allowances and fees are reviewed annually. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 A full review of allowances and expenses is presently being considered by the fostering service. This would entail a single payment for all additional expenses by the foster carers. However inspectors were not able to identify any timescales for when this would be implemented. Carers remain concerned about the variable way in which expenses are approved. Questionnaires and interviews reflected this concern.

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See advisory recommendation 6

Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 31

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The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

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

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

in practice, about the handling of their functions. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 4 Inspectors observed a fostering panel on the 11.03.05 in which 6 applications were heard. There was a variety of applications presented to this panel which included social worker’s assessments of new foster carers, recommendations for deregistration and a case in which a significant event had taken place that the fostering panel needed to be aware of. Reports and an agenda had been sent out to panel members two weeks prior to this panel meeting. The panel was quorate and all members contributed to the discussions. Independent members included expertise in a range of relevant areas, such as health and a foster carer from a different agency. Panel were observed to identify relevant issues arising from assessments and consider these in open and frank discussion. Questions were discussed in detail and social workers, team manager and both existing and perspective foster carers

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

were able to present their views to the panel. Inspectors noted the considerable skill in ensuring the foster carers were put at ease and sensitively questioned. The chair was independent of the fostering service and had an extensive experience of child welfare within social work and mental health settings. The panel chair is qualified. All panel members have been vetted as identified through records. Two members were observers during this panel whilst awaiting CRB clearance. Each member is given a pack that clarifies their responsibilities whilst working for the panel. The information also identifies the nature of good practice assessment in order to consider the merits of each application. The inspectors also had the opportunity to observe and discuss the process of the panel with the Local Authorities decision maker. A foster carer remarked that they thought the panel process was conducted in a “relevant

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

and appropriate way”. Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 32

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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? 0 This standard was not inspected at this time Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 33

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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? 0 This standard was not inspected at this time Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 34

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Date

Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 35

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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 16 th March 2005 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 Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 36

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

Amendments to the report were necessary YES

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

Comments were received from the provider YES

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

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

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

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

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Note:

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

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report:

Action plan was received at the point of publication YES

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report:

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

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report:

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

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report:

Provider has declined to provide an action plan NO

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Public reports

It should be noted that all CSCI inspection reports are public documents. Reports on children’s homes are only obtainable on personal application to CSCI offices. Nottingham City Council Fostering Service Page 37

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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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inspection conducted on the above date(s) and that I agree with the statutory

requirements made and will seek to comply with these.

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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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Nottingham City Council Fostering Service / 16th March 2005

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

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Nottingham City Council Fostering Service / 16th March 2005

Telephone: 020 7979 2000 Fax: 020 7979 2111

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Nottingham City Council Fostering Service / 16th March 2005

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

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Nottingham City Council Fostering Service / 16th March 2005

S0000049579.V211212.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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Nottingham City Council Fostering Service / 16th March 2005

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

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