Setting

Fostering Services (LBHF)

Barclay House 2nd Floor, Effie Road Fulham London SW6 1EN

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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. Fostering Services (LBHF) Page 1

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Name of Authority

London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham

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Address

2 nd Floor, Barclay House, Effie Road, Fulham, London, SW6

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Address

Barclay House, 2nd Floor, Effie Road, Fulham, London, SW6

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Date of first registration Date of latest registration certificate

Date of last inspection 09/03/04 Fostering Services (LBHF) Page 2 Date of Inspection Visit 2 nd February 2005 ID Code

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Date of first registration Date of latest registration certificate

Name of Inspector 1 Tony Lawrence 077368

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inspections and bring a different

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

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the time of inspection

Steve Miley – Fostering Service Manager Biri Yaya – Team Manager Fostering Services (LBHF) 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 Fostering Services (LBHF). 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. Fostering Services (LBHF) Page 5 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SERVICES PROVIDED. The London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham Fostering Service provides placements for 190 children and young people with approved carers. The Service provides full-time, short term and respite placements with approximately 195 carers. The Service operates four teams of social workers, each with its own Team Manager. One team deals with the recruitment and approval of foster carers; two teams support foster carers after approval by the Council’s Fostering Panel and there is also an Access to Resources Team. All

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INSPECTION VISITS

placements are approved by the Council to ensure children and young people placed are safe and well cared for. The service is based in Social Services offices, shared with the Council’s Looked After Children teams and other services for children and young people. The office provides secure accommodation for confidential information. Fostering Services (LBHF) Page 6

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Inspector’s Summary

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

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Inspector’s Summary

This announced inspection took place over two days, with additional visits to meet young people, foster carers and the Chair of the Foster Panel. The Inspectors met with social workers and managers working in the service and tracked the care received by a number of children and young people. Confidential questionnaires were sent to 124 selected young people and 15 foster carers and their comments are included in this report. The Key Standards for fostering services were assessed and covered in this report. The service is well managed and a team of experienced and qualified workers has been recruited. At the end of this inspection the Inspectors felt that looked after children and young people are cared for safely and foster carers are well supported. The local authority has implemented seven of the eight requirements made at the last inspection. One requirement is repeated in this report.

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Statement of Purpose

This Standard was met. There is a clear Statement of Purpose that details the services provided by the Fostering Service. Staff working in the service are aware of the Statement.

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Fitness to carry on or manage a fostering service

Of these 2 Standards, 1 was met and 1 was not assessed. All permanent staff working in the service are employed through external advertising and references are taken up and checked by Managers. All staff who have contact with children and young people have a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure from the Criminal Records Bureau.

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Management of the fostering service

Of these 2 Standards, 1 was met and 1 was not assessed. There is a clear management structure within the Fostering Service and the Social Services Department. Management arrangements and lines of accountability are well known to staff. Managers in the Service ensure that the Commission is informed of significant incidents and issues. There is a need to ensure that supervisory visits to carers take place and are recorded. Fostering Services (LBHF) Page 7

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Of these 9 Standards, 5 were met, 2 were not met, 1 was exceeded and 1 was not

assessed. Inspectors felt that foster placements offered a very good standard of accommodation. Young people also said they were happy with the accommodation provided. Carers said they were usually given sufficient information at the start of each placement and they felt well supported by the Service, The Department must ensure that the Fostering Services Regulations are followed when placing children/young people in an emergency to ensure individuals are cared for safely. The Council has produced a DVD of young people talking about their experiences of the care system. All staff and approved foster carers have seen this DVD. Inspectors felt the health and education needs of child/young people were met appropriately.

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Of these 9 Standards, 2 were met, 2 were not met, 1 was exceeded and 4 were not

assessed. The Family Placement Unit employs 8 Managers, 33 social workers and 6 support staff. All Managers and social workers have a professional qualification and all staff who have contact with children/young people have a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure from the Criminal Records Bureau. Staff in the Fostering Service have been working to develop an out of hours support system for foster carers. This will provide a telephone support service that will be staffed by a manager or social worker from the Service. The Department has also established the post of Training and Carer Development Consultant to improve the training and development opportunities for approved foster carers.

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Records

Of these 2 Standards, 1 was not met and 1 was not assessed. The Fostering Service maintains all the records required to meet this standard. There is a need to ensure that all required information is kept on foster carers’ files and the standard of report writing in some files kept by the Looked After Children’s Teams should be improved.

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Fitness of premises

This Standard was met. The Fostering Services offices provide a good standard of accommodation and there is additional space available in the building for interviews, training etc. The offices are secure and accessible and are located close to transport links.

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Financial requirements

Of these 3 Standards, 1 was met and two did not apply. Carers confirmed that fees and allowances are paid promptly. All carers receive a weekly fee and an additional allowance, based on the age of the child/young person placed with them. A higher fee is paid to carers who have successfully completed their NVQ training.

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Fostering Panels

This Standard was exceeded. The Council has separate Panels for the approval and review of foster carers. The membership of the statutory Panel meets the requirements and there is an independent Chair. The Director of the Children’s Trust signs formal letters informing carers of the Panel’s decision.

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Short-term breaks

This Standard was met. Fostering Services (LBHF) Page 8 There are a small number of respite foster carers who provide short breaks and a Shared Care scheme that provides short breaks for children with disabilities. The PACT scheme recruits carers to work with young people before they come into the care system.

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Family and Friend Carers

This Standard was not met. There is a need for the Department to ensure that agreed procedures are followed when placing children/young people in an emergency, to ensure the person safety. Fostering Services (LBHF) Page 9

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(Local Authority Fostering Services Only)

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

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(Local Authority Fostering Services Only)

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

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(Local Authority Fostering Services Only)

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

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(Local Authority Fostering Services Only)

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

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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 1 17 FS4 Supervisory visits must take place and copies of report must be available for tracking and monitoring. 01/05/04

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

compliance with the above requirements. Fostering Services (LBHF) Page 11

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

the evidence at the time of this inspection.

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Date

Second Inspector Jackie Derbyshire Signature

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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 17 FS4 Supervisory visits must take place and copies of reports must be available for tracking and monitoring. This is a repeat requirement. 30/06/05

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

2 38 FS9 The Social Services Department must ensure that the Fostering Services Regulations 2002 are followed when placing children/young people in an emergency to ensure individuals are cared for safely. 30/06/05

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

3 16 FS13 The Department must ensure that a Personal Education Plan is completed and regularly updated for each looked after child/young person. 30/06/05

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

4 21 FS18 The Council’s health and safety policy should be reviewed to ensure that staff working out of office hours are supported appropriately. 30/06/05

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

5 30 FS24 The Department should ensure that basic standards of literacy are met in all official reports. 30/06/05 Fostering Services (LBHF) Page 14

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

Identified below are areas addressed in the main body of the report which relate to the National Minimum Standards and are seen as good practice issues which should be considered for implementation by the Authority or Registered Person(s). No. Refer to Standard * Recommendation Action Fostering Services (LBHF) Page 15

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

The following inspection methods have been used in the production of this report Number of Inspector days spent 5

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

Survey of placing authorities NA Foster carer survey YES Foster children survey YES Checks with other organisations and Individuals NA • Directors of Social services NA • Child protection officer NA • Specialist advisor (s) NA • 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 YES Interview with panel chair YES Observation of foster carer training NO Observation of foster panel NO 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 2/2/05 Time of Inspection 10:00 Duration Of Inspection (hrs) 25 Fostering Services (LBHF) 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. Fostering Services (LBHF) Page 17

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The intended outcome for the following standard is:

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

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

what facilities and services they provide. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Local Authority has provided the Commission with an updated copy of the Fostering Service’s Statement of Purpose. This clearly details the facilities and services provided by the service. The Service Manager confirmed that the Statement is made available to all members of staff working in the service. In discussion with social workers employed in the service, the Inspectors were satisfied that all were aware of the Statement. Fostering Services (LBHF) 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? 0 This Standard was not assessed.

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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 Manager confirmed that all permanent staff working in the service are employed through external advertising. Applicants are short-listed by two Team Managers, using agreed criteria. The Team Manager responsible for recruitment to the vacant post must phone both referees to verify the reference. One reference must be from a current employer. The Service Manager also confirmed that all staff who have contact with children and young people have a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure from the Criminal Records Bureau. Team Managers are responsible for checking CRB Disclosures for agency social workers recruited to cover vacant posts. Fostering Services (LBHF) 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? 2 There is a clear management structure within the Fostering Service and the Social Services Department. Management arrangements and lines of accountability are well known to staff working in the service. The Service is covered by the local authority’s financial procedures and these are reviewed regularly. Managers in the Service ensure that the Commission is informed of significant incidents and issues. During the inspection, the Inspectors reviewed the fostering services files for a number of approved foster carers. The files were generally well organised and up to date, but there is a need to ensure that supervisory visits to carers take place and copies of reports must be available for tracking and monitoring (see Standard 21). This is a repeat requirement.

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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: 3

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

Death of a child placed with foster parents. 0

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

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

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

foster home. Serious complaint about a foster parent. 7 Initiation of child protection enquiry involving a child. 11

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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: X

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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 assessed. Fostering Services (LBHF) 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? 3 An Inspector visited three foster carers as part of this inspection. The carers were selected at random from the Service’s list of approved carers. All three placements offered a very good standard of accommodation. All young people had their own bed and bedrooms were always shared by children of the same gender, unless they were siblings. Carers’ files included copies of health and safety assessment checklists, completed as part of the approval process. Carers confirmed that they are given guidance on health and safety issues. During visits to foster carers, young people also told the Inspector that they were happy with the standard of accommodation provided. Seven young people returned confidential questionnaires and four commented that they were happy with the accommodation provided.

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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 Previous inspection reports have highlighted the shortage of white foster carers. The Recruitment and Assessment Team Manager told the Inspectors that recent recruitment activity had included targeted recruitment of White British carers. The Team Manager said that this had been successful and an increased number of white carers would hopefully be available, following assessments and approval by the Fostering Panel. Social Workers in the supervising teams told the Inspectors that children from other ethnic groups are usually placed with carers from the same culture. Young people returning questionnaires said that carers supported them with their religion and culture. Fostering Services (LBHF) 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? 3 Carers told the Inspector that they were usually given sufficient information about each child / young person at the start of the placement. They also said that they felt well supported by the Service, if problems arose. The Fostering Service Manager and social workers confirmed that culturally appropriate placements could often be made, but the Service has a shortage of white carers. The Inspectors were told that the Recruitment Team has addressed this issue with targeted advertising and it is hoped that more white carers will be approved in the future. Social workers told the Inspectors that children were usually matched with carers who could meet their needs, although there is a need for more carers for children with a disability.

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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? 1 During this visit, the Inspectors were concerned about the placement of one young person with a carer who had not been approved by the Fostering Service. The Fostering Services Regulations 2002 allow a local authority to place a child/young person with a relative or friend in an emergency, but certain steps must be taken to ensure that the child/young person is looked after appropriately and safely. In this case, it appeared that these safeguards were not in place until the young person had been placed for more than two months. It was also not possible for Inspectors to establish whether the young person had been visited weekly, a requirement of Regulation 30. The Commission has raised this case with the Social Services Department and managers have been asked to clarify why procedures may not have been followed. The Department must ensure that the Regulations

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

are followed when placing children/young people in an emergency to ensure individuals are cared for safely. Seven young people returned confidential questionnaires and all said they had never experienced physical restraint in a foster home. Five young people also commented that any sanctions were fair and appropriate.

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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 The foster carers’ case files reviewed by the Inspectors all contained information about the child/young person’s family, friends and other significant people. Contact arrangements were detailed in the Placement Agreement. Records of supervisory visits by social workers included information about contact visits. Fostering Services (LBHF) Page 22

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

daily life and their future. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 4 Managers and social workers told the Inspectors about efforts that have been made within the Department to consult with looked after children / young people. Specific training has been set up for the children of foster carers to help them understand and discuss issues that may arise during placements. Supervising social workers also told the Inspectors that they monitored each placement to ensure that foster children/young people are treated the same as the carer’s birth children. The Council does not have set rates of pocket money for looked after children. The amount of pocket money is agreed individually at the placement agreement meeting. The Council has produced a DVD of young people talking about their experiences of the care system. This DVD has been seen by all staff working in the Fostering Service and all approved foster carers. The Inspectors were told that this had

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

resulted in meaningful, practical changes for children/young people placed in foster care. One example was that a letter has been sent to all carers reminding them that suitcases/appropriate bags must be used when children/young people move on from the placement. The Inspectors felt this was an excellent example of best practice. Young people who returned confidential questionnaires also provided examples of things that had changed as a result of their comments. These included the way food was cooked, bedroom furniture, increased contact with relatives and the amount of pocket money provided.

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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 The Fostering Service Manager told the Inspectors that the Department has good links with local primary health care services. All looked after children are offered a statutory medical with a consultant paediatrician. There is also a dedicated nurse for looked after children who will offer health advice to children and young people. Social workers in the Fostering Service told the Inspectors that this was an excellent service. Staff also spoke positively about the sexual health worker employed to work with looked after young people. Foster carers are expected to register all children placed with them with a local GP or ensure that their registration can continue with their own GP. Supervising social workers told the Inspectors that this is checked at placement agreement meetings and during supervision visits. In confidential questionnaires, young people said that their carers supported them with health

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

issues, including diet, registering with a GP and attending medical appointments. Fostering Services (LBHF) Page 23

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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? 2 The Service Manager confirmed that the educational needs of children/young people placed with foster carers were monitored by the supervising social workers employed in the Service. Inspection of social workers’ supervision visit reports showed that each young person’s involvement in education is reviewed at each visit. Where young people have been excluded from mainstream schooling, arrangements are made to provide other opportunities and these are also monitored by the supervising social workers. Social Workers also told the Inspectors that the Education Worker for Looked After Children provided valuable support to young people and the Fostering Service. During this inspection, the case files of seven looked after children/young people were reviewed. Not all files contained a copy of the child/young person’s Personal Education Plan (PEP). The Department must ensure that a

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

PEP is completed and regularly updated for each looked after child/young person.

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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 assessed. Fostering Services (LBHF) Page 24

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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? 3 The Fostering Service Manager confirmed that the Council’s Family Placement Unit employs 8 Managers, 33 social workers and 6 support staff. All Managers and social workers have a professional qualification and all staff who have contact with children/young people have a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure from the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB). Managers confirmed that CRB Disclosures are obtained and checked for all agency staff working in the Service. Social workers told the Inspectors that the Service was generally well staffed, although they had experienced some difficulties retaining permanent support staff.

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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 assessed.

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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 As part of this inspection, the Inspectors met staff and managers from the Fostering Service and visited three foster carers. The Inspectors felt that the Service was staffed appropriately to provide the services detailed in the Statement of Purpose. All social workers and managers in the service have a professional qualification. A range of carers has been recruited to provide short breaks, emergency and longer-term placements, including placements with relatives and friends. NVQ training is provided for carers and a new training post has been established to provide more training and development opportunities for carers. Fostering Services (LBHF) Page 25

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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? 2 To assess this Standard, the Inspectors met with social workers, managers and other staff employed in the service. The Service has recruited a team of qualified and experienced staff and all said they had worked in other areas of child care social work before joining the Fostering Service. Staff and managers said there were few problems with recruiting and retaining staff and no permanent members of staff have left the Service since the last inspection. Social Workers were aware of the Service’s Statement of Purpose, policies and procedures. The Inspectors felt there was a need to develop the Council’s health and safety policy to ensure that staff working out of office hours are supported appropriately.

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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 assessed.

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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 assessed.

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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 During the inspection, the Inspectors reviewed the fostering service’s files for 5 approved foster carers. The files were well organised and information was easily located. The Service has a standardised format to enable social workers to record their monthly supervision visits to carers. There is also a form to record unannounced supervisory visits. Staff working in the service were aware of the need for and importance of, unannounced visits and told the Inspectors that these were carried out at least once a year to each carer. The Service Manager told Inspectors that the Fostering Panel reviews the number of supervisory visits made to each carer at their annual review. The date of the unannounced visits is also recorded at the review. Not all visit reports were seen on the files checked by the Inspectors

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Standard 21 (21.1 - 21.6)

and only one unannounced visit report was seen. There is a need to ensure that supervisory visits to carers take place and copies of reports must be available for tracking and monitoring. This is a repeat requirement. Fostering Services (LBHF) Page 26

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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? 0 This Standard was not assessed.

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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? 4 Since the last inspection, staff in the Fostering Service have been working to develop an out of hours support system for foster carers. This will provide a telephone support service that will be staffed by a manager or social worker from the Service. While it will initially run only at weekends, the plan is to extend the service to weekday evenings in the future. The Service Manager confirmed that all approved carers have access to training courses run by the Social Services Department. Since the last inspection the Department has also established the post of Training and Carer Development Consultant to improve the training and development opportunities for approved foster carers. During this visit, an Inspector spoke with the Consultant. He confirmed that he would be running induction training for new carers, based on the National Minimum Standards and core skills. The Consultant will

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

deliver some training and also commission training form other providers. The system of Foster Carer Support Groups has also been reorganised since the last inspection. There are now seven separate groups, organised according to the ages of the young people placed with the carer. The Carer Development Consultant will also provide support to these groups, arranging speakers for specific topics. There are also plans to produce a quarterly magazine for carers. Fostering Services (LBHF) Page 27

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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? 2 During this visit the Inspectors reviewed the case files of 7 young people looked after by the Local Authority and placed with approved foster carers. These files are maintained by the child’s social worker working in the Council’s Looked After Children (LAC) social work teams. The LAC tams are based in the same building as the fostering service. All seven files were well organised and all contained updated LAC information and documentation. Each file included details of the social worker’s contact with the young person. The Inspectors felt that the quality of some reports in individual files was not up to an acceptable standard. Some hand-written notes were difficult to read and some reports contained numerous grammatical errors and spelling mistakes. The Department should ensure that basic standards of literacy are met in all official reports.

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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? 0 This Standard was not assessed.

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The fostering service's administrative records contain all significant information

Number of current foster placements supported by the agency: 190 Number of placements made by the agency in the last 12 months: 201

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months:

Number of new foster carers approved during the last 12 months: 7 Number of foster carers who left the agency during the last 12 months: 11

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Maximum £

200.18 Fostering Services (LBHF) 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? 3 The Fostering Service is based in Council offices close to Fulham Broadway. The offices are accessible to people with restricted mobility. Security staff monitor access to the building during the working day. The building provides accommodation for a range of services for children and families in the Borough. The Fostering Service offices are on one floor. The Inspectors felt the offices provide a good standard of accommodation and there is additional space available in the building for interviews, training etc. The offices are well equipped, although staff reported some problems with the IT systems provided. Confidential records relating to foster carers and children/young people are securely stored. Fostering Services (LBHF) 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 does not apply to Local Authority fostering services.

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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 does not apply to Local Authority fostering services.

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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? 3 The Inspectors were told that each carer receives a weekly fee of £180.18 for each child placed. An additional £20 per week is paid to carers who have successfully completed their NVQ training. An additional weekly allowance is paid, based on Central Government guidance on the cost of bringing up children. The allowance ranges from £85.75 - £152.67, depending on the age of the child/young person. Carers confirmed that fees and allowances are paid promptly. Fostering Services (LBHF) Page 30

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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? 3 The Service Manager confirmed that the local authority has a statutory Panel to approve all carers and a review Panel that oversees the annual review of each approved carer. The statutory Panel’s membership meets the requirements of the National Minimum Standards and the Fostering Services Regulations 2002. There is a majority of independent members. To assess this Standard, the Inspector reviewed minutes of Panel meetings and met with the Chair of the Panel. The Chair has been a member of the Panel for six years and was vice- chair for three years, before becoming Chair in January 2005. The Chair is also the nominated representative from education. The Inspector felt that the Chair has a clear understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the Panel. The Panel meets fortnightly and the Chair said that papers are sent out to members in advance. The Panel makes a

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

recommendation about approval to the Director of the Children’s Trust. The Director is the agreed decision maker and he signs all formal letters informing carers of the Council’s decision. Fostering Services (LBHF) Page 31

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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? 3 The Service Manager confirmed that the Department is planning to develop support for families in the community by developing the Network Carers Scheme. There are a small number of respite foster carers who provide short breaks. There is also a Shared Care scheme that provides short breaks for children with disabilities. Social Workers told the Inspectors that there is a need for more carers for this scheme. The Inspectors were also told about the PACT scheme that recruits carers to work with young people before they come into the care system. Fostering Services (LBHF) Page 32

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The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

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

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

carers. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 As noted in Standard 9, there is a need for the Department to ensure that procedures are followed when placing children/young people with family or friends in an emergency. The Service has procedures for responding to emergency referrals but these cannot work if referrals are not received. The Inspectors felt that the procedures for placing children/young people with relatives or friends were well known to managers and social workers in the Fostering Service and the Chair of the Fostering Panel. Fostering Services (LBHF) Page 33

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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 2 nd February 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 Fostering Services (LBHF) Page 35

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

Amendments to the report were necessary NO

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

Comments were received from the provider NO

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

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

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

NO 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. Fostering Services (LBHF) Page 36

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

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

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Date

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

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Fostering Services (LBHF) / 2nd February 2005

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

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Fostering Services (LBHF) / 2nd February 2005

Telephone: 020 7979 2000 Fax: 020 7979 2111

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Fostering Services (LBHF) / 2nd February 2005

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

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Fostering Services (LBHF) / 2nd February 2005

S0000048521.V202450.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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Fostering Services (LBHF) / 2nd February 2005

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

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