Setting

Service

Grosvenor House Halton Lea Runcorn Cheshire WA7 2ED

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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. Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 1

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Name of Authority

Halton Borough Council Fostering Service

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Address

Grosvenor House, Halton Lea, Runcorn, Cheshire, WA7 2ED

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Fax No: Address

Grosvenor House, Halton Lea, Runcorn, Cheshire, WA7 2ED

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Date of first registration Date of latest registration certificate

Date of last inspection 10/03/04 Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 2 Date of Inspection Visit 7th – 11th February 2005 ID Code

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inspections and bring a different

perspective to the inspection process. None Name of Specialist (e.g. Interpreter/Signer) (if applicable) None

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Name of Establishment Representative at

the time of inspection Ms. Colette Luty Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 3

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D.3. Provider’s agreement

Halton Borough 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 Halton Borough 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. Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 5 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SERVICES PROVIDED. Haltom Borough is situated between Liverpool and Manchester. It contains the towns of Widnes and Runcorn, plus the villages of Hale, Moore, Daresbury and Preston Brook. Halton Borough Council Fostering Service forms part of the Children’s Services Division located within the Social Care, Housing and Health Directorate. The fostering and adoption team held responsibility for the recruitment, assessment, training, support and management of all people providing a fostering placement for children and young people who have been

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INSPECTION VISITS

placed through the “looked after” system. The team was managed by a Principal Manager and a Practice Manager. They had responsibility for the management of nine social workers and administrative support. The fostering and adoption team is accountable to the Divisional Manager and was based in the main council offices in Runcorn. The team had 74 foster carers looking after 173 children; their ages ranged from 0 to 18 years. The service had created a Teenage Fostering Scheme aimed at recruiting specialist foster carers for older children who present challenging behaviours and are in residential placements. The team was also responsible for the provision of short and long term placement, short- term respite breaks and 23 kinship carers. Halton Borough 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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Statement of purpose

The Directorate had a comprehensive Statement of Purpose that provided full and detailed information on all aspects of the Fostering Service. It was given to all carers and staff, and was the first document in the Foster Carer Manual. The Statement of Purpose was available in Braille, an audio version and in other languages if required. The information in the Statement accurately reflected the overall aims of the Fostering Service and the way in which it supported children and carers.

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Management of the fostering service

The Fostering Service continued to be effectively managed. A number of staff were in temporary positions but had been previously involved with the service and so had detailed knowledge, experience and skills. Staff and carers confirmed that they felt they were well managed. The preparation for the inspection, and the information made available indicated a positive approach to the process, and the support offered throughout the inspection remained of a high standard. The management of the service was responsive to continuing review and development and demonstrated an ability to introduce new initiatives to ensure the service used its resources in as effective and efficient a way as possible.

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Securing and promoting welfare

The service has clear policies and procedures to ensure children’s needs are identified and met through placements with carers. Of particular note was the commitment to education and the resources that had been provided to ensure the best possible education was provided to children and carers. Rigorous reviewing procedures ensured care plans were monitored and foster carers were working effectively to meet children’s identified needs. Some issues of the quality and quantity of information available to carers were identified, but these were seen to be due to aspects of individual practice rather than significant in terms of the systems on which the service was based.

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Recruiting and managing staff and foster carers

Carers and staff were effectively recruited, supported and trained. Foster carers were positive about the support they received from the Directorate. The recruitment of an Independent Reviewing Officer was a positive step, and the creation of a dedicated worker for Kinship care will enable these carers to be supported appropriately. Training and development opportunities for both carers and staff were provided in a systematic and well-organised fashion and were responsive to the needs of the service.

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Records

Some issues of practice were identified in relation to records. All were held securely, and the content was in accordance with the requirements of the regulations. Some comments were made about the structure and organisation of both children and foster carer files, and this had made locating, placing and monitoring file content more difficult. The issues were brought to the attention of the manager during the course of the inspection. Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 7

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Premises

The premises available to the Fostering Team were being extended to provide more room. The Principal Manager had recently been provided with her own office. A visitor book was not available at the time of the inspection.

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Financial requirements

The Fostering Service was part of Halton Borough Council and therefore subject to all its financial and regulatory procedures.

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Short-term breaks

Issues of information being available to short term carers and the signing of foster placement agreements were identified during the inspection. Systems were however satisfactory and carers reported effective support from the Fostering Team.

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Family and friends

The Directorate has increased the support available to kinship carers. They were being made subject to annual reviews following the appointment of the Independent Reviewing Officer and by the recent appointment of a worker dedicated to supporting kinship carers. Halton Borough 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:

Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 9

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Implementation of Statutory Requirements from Last Inspection

Requirements from last Inspection visit fully actioned? NA Halton Borough 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 22 March 2005

Halton Borough 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

34(3) Schedule 6 FS8 The Principal Manager must ensure that the Authority enters into a written agreement with every foster carer relating to every child placed with them, and ensures each foster carer is provided with appropriate information relating to a child. March 31 st

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

2 35(3)(b) FS22 The Principal Manager must ensure that foster carers receive at least one unannounced visit each year from supervising social workers and that these visits are recorded accurately. March 31 st

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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 FS6 The Principal Manager could ensure that reference to the possibility of visits from CSCI and is made in the Foster Care Agreement.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

2 FS8 The Principal Manager could define for carers the timescales that constitute an “emergency” and a “planned” placement, and provide a checklist of documents that should be made available to them. Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 12 3 FS10 The Principal Manager could ensure foster carers are provided with copies of birth certificates, court orders and orders restricting contact for children placed with them.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

4 FS18 The Principal Manager could ensure carers contact only the identified foster carer for out of hours support.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

5 FS18 The Principal manager could include a “Whistleblowing” policy in the Foster Carer Manual.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

6 FS23 The Principal Manager could ensure training on working with the LAC documentation and understanding financial issues is provided for foster carers.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

7 FS23 The Principal Manager could ensure reference to the expectation that foster carers attend training provided by the Directorate is contained in the Foster Carer Agreement.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

8 FS24 The Principal Manager could review the content and structure of children’s files.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

9 FS24 The Principal Manager could ensure that foster carers complete summaries of significant events and that children contribute to the record.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

10 FS25 The Principal Manager could review the structure of foster carer’s files in order to ensure the most effective systems of storing and monitoring records.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

11 FS26 The Principal Manager could review the provision of a visitors’ book for people attending the offices of the service.

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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. Halton Borough 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

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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 YES • Directors of Social services NA • Child protection officer YES • Specialist advisor (s) NO • Local Foster Care Association NO Tracking Individual welfare arrangements YES • Interview with children YES • Interview with foster carers YES • Interview with agency staff NA • Contact with parents NO • Contact with supervising social workers YES • Examination of files YES Individual interview with manager YES Information from provider YES Individual interviews with key staff YES Group discussion with staff NO Interview with panel chair YES Observation of foster carer training NO Observation of foster panel 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 7/02/05 Time of Inspection 09.00 Duration Of Inspection (hrs) 41 Halton Borough 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. Halton Borough 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? 3 The Authority had a comprehensive Statement of Purpose that it made available to all foster carers and every member of staff of the Adoption and Fostering Service. Information about children’s rights and about contacting the Commission for Social Care Inspection had been included since the last inspection. The manager told the inspector that the Authority had developed a children’s guide and a separate parent’s guide to the Statement of Purpose, and said that copies could be made available in Braille, in an audio version and in other languages on request. The Statement of Purpose formed part of the Foster Carer Manual. Halton Borough 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? 4 The Adoption and Fostering Team was made up of experienced and qualified staff. The Principal Manager was appointed in a temporary capacity in November 2004 and is likely to be in post for a twelve to eighteen month period. At the time of the inspection she was waiting to undertake management training. The Practice Manager deputised in the Principal Manager’s absence, supervised staff and supported social workers in direct work. Leave arrangements were co-ordinated to ensure there was always appropriate management cover. All staff with whom the inspector spoke said that they felt the managers were open to discussion, always available and very supportive to them. The quantity and quality of the information made available for the inspection was a model of good practice. Recent developments within the service, including the appointment of an Independent

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

Reviewing Officer, a Marketing and Information officer, the appointment of a member of staff to specialise in Kinship Care and the creation of a specialist teenage fostering service exemplified the high standard of management with which the service was run. In addition the response of the managers to organising the inspection and to issues identified during the inspection demonstrated the commitment to reviewing and developing all aspects of the work of the service.

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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 Adoption and Fostering Team was part of the services operated by Halton Borough Council. Staff were therefore subject to the policies and procedures applicable to the whole local authority. Personnel files were held in the central Human Resources Department. A selection of staff files was seen during the inspection. They contained all the information required by Schedule 1 of the Fostering Services Regulations. Police checks were organised to be reviewed every three years and records were kept of all checks and references. Halton Borough 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? 3 The Fostering Service produced a Business Plan. This outlined the aims and objectives of the service for the year. The Plan set targets with timescales for specific areas of development, and monitored actual performance against the predicted objectives. The Statement of Purpose set out the staffing structure of the Team, and described the values and principles on which the service was based. Staff and foster carers said they felt that lines of communication and support were good. Foster carers in particular told the inspector that communication and support had improved considerably over the past two years or so. Information about all aspects of the service was produced and made available for the inspection.

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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. 0 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: 0 Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 18

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Standard 5 (5.1 - 5.4)

The fostering service is managed effectively and efficiently. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 4 The inspection carried out last year identified high standards of management of the fostering service. Since then there have been some changes in the Children’s Division. The Head of this service is currently in an Acting position, as were the Principal manager and the Practice Manager. Despite these changes the service was still managed to the high standard reported at the previous inspection. Job descriptions were specific and relevant. Accountabilities were clear and effective interactions were observed at both formal and informal levels.

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Standard 5 (5.1 - 5.4)

The way in which the inspection was organised by the Principal Manager, and the support available throughout the inspection were impressive and demonstrated a significant commitment on the part of the Fostering Service to the inspection process. Policies and procedures were effective and thorough. The Team could evidence a number of initiatives to demonstrate it was continually looking for ways to review and improve the services it provided. Practice developments included the establishing of a Fostering Forum onto which foster carer representatives were voted; the creation of an Awards event to recognise carers who have been involved in the service for a number of years; an Employee Development Programme, and the development of a number of posts to improve the functioning of the team. Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 19

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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 Foster carers were approved for a specific number and type of placements. When placements needed to go over numbers as a result of some emergency a “carer’s over numbers” assessment was done and endorsed by a senior manager. This enabled the service to monitor the facilities available in each placement, to help avoid risks to children and carers, and to ensure placements were suitable in all respects. Foster carers homes were inspected as part of the initial approval process, and a Health and Safety checklist was completed for homes both before placement and updated as a part of the annual review of the carers. The homes that were visited as a part of the inspection were adequately furnished and maintained, and decorated to good standards. The Principal Manager said that the Department was looking to introduce “bedroom/accommodation plans” to enable supervising

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

social workers to have a better idea about the size of accommodation available to children, and was in the process of devising a carer’s “Pet risk assessment”. The Principal Manager told the inspector that the Department was in the process of buying lockable medicine cabinets for each carer, and was to set up an arrangement with Cheshire Fire Service to carry out general safety check to foster carers’ homes and will provide them with free smoke detectors. A risk assessment process was in place for children who have been abused or who have abused others, and copies of these were available on file. The Foster Carer Agreement refers to the requirement to permit staff authorised by the Authority to visit the home. It could be amended to include reference to visits by the Commission for Social Care Inspection as part of the inspection process.

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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 Foster Carer manual highlighted the commitment of the Department to recognising the need for promoting a child’s cultural heritage. Training was provided to all carers to enable them to explore ideas about diversity and to develop ways of nurturing the heritage of children and young people. Foster care assessments and approvals dealt with issues of diversity and culture, and care plans identified a child’s needs and the ability of the placement to support children in all areas of their lives. Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 20 Children’s assessments recognised the issue of life experience and the need to develop self- esteem, and promoted the treatment of looked after children as part of a foster carer’s family. Regular supervisory visits assisted in the identification of issues where carers needed

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

support and to ensure that guidance was available wherever required. The Principal Manager told the inspector that the Department had recently obtained the services of a translator for a young person who was an unaccompanied asylum seeker. The Children’s Guide was available in Braille, in an audio version and other languages on request. The foster home of one young person with a disability had been adapted to enable him to remain in placement.

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

authority is seeking a carer. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 Foster carers were approved to enable them to care for specific numbers and needs of children. Matching meetings considered the placements of children with carers, and records of these were available on foster carers’ files. The Principal Manager said it was recognised that in some cases placements had to be made in less than ideal circumstances as a result of occasional shortages of foster carers, particularly in relation to the placements of teenagers. In such cases however the Department would ensure that placements were monitored and that all risk assessments had been completed. Introductions to all placements were made unless the circumstances did not permit it. The Department could define what is meant by an “emergency” placement in terms of timescales, and draw up a list of the information to be made available to carers for these and

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See recommendation 2

One foster carer told the inspector that she had taken a short-term placement without having had the appropriate LAC documentation. As the Department used the Placement Plan Part one as the placement agreement this meant that one was not in force. The inspector saw that other placements had been made without the appropriate documentation having been made available. Foster carers could be provided with copies of a child’s birth certificate, particularly for long-term placements. Foster carers identified a particular issue with placement made by the Emergency Duty Team. One foster carer said she had taken an emergency placement without being given any information. The young person then ran off, and the carer was not able to give sufficient information to the police.

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See requirement 1

The inspector noted that the Foster Care Agreement had been amended to include reference to the need for foster carers to ensure they had full information on a child before any placement was made. Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 21

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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 Training information evidenced the fact that training was provided to carers in a range of topics including caring for children who have been abused, managing behaviour and on the prevention of bullying. Anti-bullying policies were available in formats for both adults and children. The Department made clear in a variety of ways that corporal punishment was not acceptable, and all foster carers with whom the inspector spoke understood their responsibilities to children. The Foster Care agreement mentioned issues of discipline and sanctions, and further guidance was available in the Control Leaflet. Foster carers were encouraged to discuss any difficulties at an early stage with social workers. Each foster carer’s file had an “End of Placement” report that recorded any allegations made against carers and the response of the Department to such allegations.

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

The Directorate had “Missing from Home “ procedures to be applied whenever any young person goes missing or fails to return to a carer’s home. This procedure was included in the Foster Carer Manual.

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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 Care agreement identified carers’ responsibilities to any child placed with them. These included the promotion of contact with a child’s natural family where this was in the interests of that child. LAC documentation and care plans recorded the contacts to be made, and statutory reviews recorded the ways in which contact needs had been met. Schedules of contacts recording what contact had taken place, and when, were available on file. Carers said they were clear about the need to promote contact and their responsibilities to children. The views of children were sought in relation to contact. One young person wrote in their inspection questionnaire “When Social Services arranged for me to see my dad in prison I said I did not want to go, so they listened to me and I did not go.” Long-term foster carers had recently been provided with training in promoting and handling

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

face-to-face contact. The inspector looked a number of cases where there was a restriction of contact identified in the child’s information. It was clear however that foster carers did not have copies of court orders in relation to such restriction. Carers felt they and the children would be safer and better prepared if these were made available to them.

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See recommendation 3

Halton Borough Council Fostering Service 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? 3 The Authority had developed Young People’s Groups, including one for those aged 16 plus. These groups met together to discuss issues or undertake activities together, and were also used for consultation purposes in relation to Looked After children. The Principal Manager told the inspector that it is the intention to involve young people from these groups in delivering training to prospective foster carers. Children’s views were obtained through the statutory reviewing process. Files contained documents written by children and young people, or by adults on their behalf, giving their views on aspects of their care. Children were supported in attendance at their reviews. A Children’s Guide to the foster service explained what can happen and enabled young people to write their own information in them. One young person read the contents of her

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

guide to the inspector. The Complaints Procedure was provided to children, and those to whom the inspector spoke said they knew how to make a complaint if they needed to. The Department’s Quality Assurance Unit sent out complaints leaflets and information about advocacy with their quarterly newsletter. Children could “text” a complaint to the Directorate. Copies of the children and young person’s ”View of their foster placement” form were provided as part of the information made available for the inspection.

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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 Information relating to the health needs of each child placed was available in the personal information contained on the files. These documents included assessment information, LAC documents and care plans, and records of statutory reviews. Health issues were clearly recorded, and specific treatments and interventions were recorded as being required, and as being addressed. Each child and young person was given a “Child Personal Handheld Health Record” which recorded all aspects of their health needs and health care. This was intended to follow on from the health record available to children aged 0-5. Children and young people were registered with a GP, a dentist and optician. Foster carers were encouraged to ensure the health needs of children were met, and annual medicals were obtained and recorded on file. The Directorate had the support of a designated LAC

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

nurse, and further support was available from CAMHS, the Drug Action Team and the Teenage Pregnancy Scheme. These teams were all involved in providing information and training to foster carers. Foster carers were provided with medication forms to complete in respect of any child receiving medication. Halton Borough Council Fostering Service 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? 4 The Directorate set a high priority on identifying education needs of young people looked after, and had created an impressive set of resources in order to support the provision of effective education for them. Education issues were identified in assessment documentation and care plans, and progress was monitored through statutory reviews and recorded on file. The newly created Education Support Team was located with the Permanence Team and was managed by the Divisional Manager. The team consisted of the Head of Service together with a part-time Educational Psychologist and two learning mentors. Other initiatives included the development of an Interactive Personal Education Plan, an interactive animated software package that foster carers, children and teachers can access to provide details via a PC, with information being stored on a CD.

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

Every foster carer with children over the age of 11 has received a personal computer specifically for the use of looked after children. The expectations of foster carers in respect of supporting children’s education were clearly set out in the Foster Carer Manual. These enabled as much delegated power as possible to be passed to carers to work directly with schools. Individual support was available to foster carers from social workers and the Education Support Team. The Team provided a wide range of assistance for all education issues including dealing with and working to prevent exclusions, identifying specific education support issues and working to prevent bullying in schools. Every child had a Personal Education Plan on file.

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

competence and knowledge necessary for adult living. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Directorate considered that preparation for leaving care was an integral part of the care process. Three main aspects were identified in the preparation process. These were enabling young people to build and maintain relationships with peers, developing self- esteem and teaching practical and financial skills. These elements were identified in the multi-agency assessments that led to Pathway plans. These set out how needs would be met in relation to education, training, employment, accommodation, health, personal and financial support. Files evidenced that the Pathway Plan process continued to at least age 21 with reviews at six-monthly intervals. Young people leaving care could be offered a Personal Advisor to co-ordinate the support and assistance offered. The Principal manager said that training for foster carers to assist young people into

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

independence would be jointly designed and delivered by members of the Young People’s Team and the Fostering Service. A further initiative was the development of the “Life Card”, an interactive electronic version of life storybooks. This enabled young people to input their personal histories via their PC, and this information cannot be lost or destroyed. Training for social workers in Life Appreciation Days for assisting foster carers with long-term placements is also being planned. Halton Borough Council Fostering Service 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 Directorate had clear written recruitment and selection procedures for appointing staff. Personnel files held copies of contracts of employment, job descriptions and person specifications, records of interviews and letters of appointments. Full records of employment history were recorded; references were obtained and validated by personal contract, and staff had regular CRB checks. The Fostering Team is staffed with qualified and experienced staff, and regular training was provided. A number of staff have been in the Team for some time, others had more recent experience of child care work. Those staff were interviewed as part of the inspection process all demonstrated high standards of knowledge, experience and commitment to the Team.

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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? 4 The Directorate had a clear staffing and management structure. A diagrammatic representation was provided in the Foster Carer Manual. The Team was managed by the Principal Manager, and the Practice Manager acted as deputy when required. Both were responsible for the supervision of staff. Staff and carers were provided with continuing training and development; both had a written Personal Development Plan kept on file. This identified training and development needs and the support that had been provided. Workloads were effectively managed, arrangements had been made for existing staff to cover in the case of vacancies, and supervising social workers were responsible for both assessment and supervision of foster carers. Relationships between the Fostering Team and children’s social workers appeared to be open and supportive. All social workers with whom the inspector spoke said that the various

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

parts of the Directorate worked well together, and there was an open, helpful and effective relationship between all staff. The Team was supported by adequate administrative back up staff who were located in the Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 25 main council offices in Runcorn. A recent positive development has been the appointment of an Independent Fostering Review Officer. He had responsibility for reviewing all foster carers, for ensuring quality control issues are identified, and for reporting quarterly to the Fostering Panel.

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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 The Team consisted of a group of experienced and qualified staff. Shortfalls in staffing numbers had been compensated for within the Team, and a number of members of staff had been with the Team for a number of years. The Directorate had a Recruitment and Marketing manager whose main role was to develop strategies for the recruitment and retention of carers. A written recruitment strategy had been produced. A recent initiative had been the joint recruitment campaign conducted with two neighbouring local authorities. The Principal Manager told the inspector that the Directorate had continuing shortfalls of carers for teenagers and home from home care, as do many local authority fostering services. The assessment process for carers was clearly recorded, and reports on carers’ files indicated that they were thorough and comprehensive. All assessment reports were

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

presented to the Fostering Panel, and discussions subsequently minuted and placed on carers’ files.

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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 Foster carers were positive about the support they received from the Fostering Team. One new carer said she had been told it had not been like this “in the old days”, but she had nothing but praise for the support she had received at all stages of approval, assessment and placement. The Principal Manager said the Team had recognised the significance of effective support in meeting children’s needs and in retaining foster carers in the service, and practices had developed to ensure this support was provided. Foster carers were becoming involved in recruiting new recruits at early stages of their contact with the Directorate, and this was seen to be a positive development for all concerned. An out of hour’s carers’ helpline had been introduced, with experienced foster carers being available via the phone from six at night until midnight. After that the EDT provided support.

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

Calls to the Helpline were recorded. One carer reported that she received calls from other carers when she was not on duty. The Principal Manager should consider encouraging calls to be made only to the identified carer on duty.

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See recommendation 4

Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 26 The Directorate had sufficient current public liability insurance. Carers told the inspector that the insurance covered damage caused by children to their home, and financial indemnity was prompt and appropriate. The Directorate had a Whistle blowing Policy in the staff handbook. The Principal Manager could ensure one for foster carers was included in the Foster Carers Manual.

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

staff up-to-date with professional and legal developments. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Training opportunities were provided for staff within the team. Staff were provided with an induction programme and subsequent training to update skills and deal with new initiatives. Each member of staff had a personal development programme to ensure that personal requirements were identified. Team meetings were held every fortnight; these enabled issues needing consideration or action to be identified and dealt with. The Directorate held regular briefings for staff. These related to practice issues and the dissemination of internal policies and procedures. Foster carers were included in training programmes with social workers. Significant courses included child protection and care planning.

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Standard 20 (20.1 - 20.5)

All staff are properly accountable and supported. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The inspector met with management and staff and read supervision and appraisal documentation, staff files and team meeting minutes. Staff interviewed stated they were properly accountable and supported and held full written details of the duties and responsibilities expected of them. Staff files held information to confirm that job specifications and policies and procedures of the organisation had been provided to staff. Supervision and appraisal documentation and minutes of team meetings evidenced full compliance with this standard. Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 27

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Standard 21 (21.1 - 21.6)

The fostering service has a clear strategy for working with and supporting carers. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 All the foster carers who completed inspection questionnaires and with whom the inspector spoke said that the support they now received was “good” or “very good” and that it had improved considerably over the last two years. Whilst there had been examples of support not being provided as well as or as quickly as foster carers would always like it was recognised that no system was going to be perfect all the time. Areas of support identified as good included contact with supervising social workers, the quality of training and information provided about all aspects of the service. Experienced foster carers were involved in meeting and supporting new carers at the early stages of their approval; contributing to training courses; running foster carer support groups; participating

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Standard 21 (21.1 - 21.6)

in the out-of –hours helpline and in “mentoring” new carers. The Foster Care Forum enabled issues to be raised at a senior management level and foster carers felt they were provided with opportunities to contribute to the development of the service. Communication between foster carers and the child’s social worker was felt to be good, and case records evidenced the ways in which staff of the Directorate supported 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 Foster Carer Manual described the role of the supervising social worker. Each foster carer had an identified supervising social worker who carried out visits in accordance with the policy of the Directorate. Foster carer files recorded the supervision meetings that took place. The dates of supervisory visits were placed on the file in advance, giving details of dates of meetings that had been arranged, rather than those that had taken place. Supervising social workers completed written records of these visits, in one case it was noticed that the social worker had written the basic details of the supervision record in advance. The meeting had not taken place, but it remained on the file, giving the impression that a visit had been made when it had not. In this case the foster carer had therefore not had an unannounced visit for

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

over a year as identified in the Foster Carer Manual and in this standard.

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See requirement 2

Foster carers commented favourably on the support they received from supervising social workers. Some said that support from the child’s social worker could vary, but foster carers said they recognised the pressures that social workers were under. Where the child’s social worker was not available foster carers said the Fostering Team would always help them. The Directorate had a clear policy and procedures to deal with allegations made against foster carers and this information was made available for the inspection. Payments were made promptly and correctly; foster carers said that if there were any errors they were reconciled very quickly. The Foster Care Manual contained comprehensive, indexed information about all aspects of the service. Each foster carer’s file contained a copy of the Foster Care agreement; at the time of the inspection this was being amended to include new information. Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 28

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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 Various training programmes were available to all foster carers throughout the year. The Directorate produced and annual foster carer training strategy. Each foster carer had a Personal Development Plan that was reviewed annually. The information from this contributed to each foster carer’s annual review. Courses offered included NVQ qualifications, Health and Safety, Basic First Aid and Managing Difficult Behaviour. The inspector saw that one foster carer had received training in assisting a young person with managing his diabetes, and a record of this training was held on the file. All foster carers received pre-approval training. Foster carers told the inspector that they would like specific training on working with the LAC documentation and on welcome receiving information on managing financial issues.

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See recommendation 6

Both foster carers and staff identified some issues of foster carers attending training. The Principal Manager said that the Directorate was examining ways in which training could be provided during the evening and at weekends. Reference to the expectation that foster carers attend training could be included in the Foster Carer Agreement

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See recommendation 7

Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 29

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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 Each child placed by the Directorate had a comprehensive case record, and these records were made available for the inspection. The inspector noted that chronologies on case records could begin from the date of the first contact between a child and the Directorate, and that files did not always contain a “family tree” It was also noted that some files contained information on other children, particularly in the case of sibling groups. LAC documents were available on file. The inspector noticed that some had been completed by previous carers, or had been completed some time in the past. The Principal Manager could review the frequency of updating these records to ensure they provide effective information.

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See recommendation 8

Foster carers were expected to record significant events concerning the children in their care. Reference to this responsibility was contained in the Foster Carer Manual; carers were offered the opportunity to attend training in Recording with Care. The inspector was told that these records were held until the end of the placement, when they were collected with all the other information relating to the child. The inspector felt that it might be better practice for the significant event record to be evaluated or summarised by the carer on a regular basis, and for the young person who was the subject of the record to be allowed to see and contribute to the record.

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See recommendation 9

Young people had “life story boxes” and photograph albums. Two young brothers were enthusiastic in showing their photographs of their family and life in their new home to the inspector. The Directorate had also developed a computer-based interactive life storybook that would be made available to all children and young people. All foster carers visited during the inspection held children’s records in secure storage. Foster carers said they were confused about the use of keeping computerised records on young people. The Principal Manager said she would review the requirements of the Data Protection Act and provide guidance for carers. Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 30

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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 Records relating to the functioning of the service were stored securely in a number of locations. Those relating to staff were held in the Personnel Department in the central Municipal Buildings; foster carer records were held in the area occupied by the fostering team in Runcorn; children’s files were held with the relevant social work teams, and quality assurance information was held by the Quality Assurance Unit. All information was held securely, and staff were clear about the ways in which information could be accessed. Principal Managers monitored case records. The inspector noted some inconsistency in the application of the systems governing the monitoring of records. Some case files contained information relating to children (LAC documentation; reviews) or adults (an old Form F) other

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The fostering service's administrative records contain all significant information

that the subject. One foster carer still had LAC documentation relating to a child who had left the placement, and some contact sheets covering nearly a year had been monitored and signed by the Manager on the 31/01/05. Some staff and foster carers said they felt such discrepancies could be the result of a file structure that was not “user friendly”.

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See recommendation 10

Number of current foster placements supported by the agency: 90 Number of placements made by the agency in the last 12 months: 78

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months:

Number of new foster carers approved during the last 12 months: 12 Number of foster carers who left the agency during the last 12 months: 13

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Maximum £

X Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 31

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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 Fostering Team was based in the central Runcorn offices. At the time of the inspection arrangements were being made to extend the area available to the team; the Principal Manager had recently been provided with her own office. Records were stored in lockable cabinets and computerised records were password- restricted. The office premises had adequate insurance for which a certificate was available. The inspector noted that visitors to the office were not asked to sign a visitors’ book recording their visit; the Principal Manager confirmed that one was not available for the floor on which the fostering team was located. There was one however at the main entrance to the building, which is where all visitors would normally gain access to the team.

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See recommendation 11

Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 32

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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? 3 The Directorate was part of the Halton Borough Council and was therefore subject to its budget policies and arrangements. An annual budget statement for the Fostering Service was made available for the inspection.

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

in accordance with sound and appropriate accounting standards and practice. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Directorate was part of Halton Borough Council and subject to its policies, procedures and accounting arrangements. Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 33

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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 rates of allowances were clear and made available to social workers and foster carers. Some carers commented that they felt the rates did not always reflect the level of work and responsibility, but recognised that allowances were to some extent governed by available resources. Foster carers said they were paid promptly and in full. Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 34

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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 inspector was not able to observe a Panel in operation. The meeting due to take place during the inspection was cancelled as the Chair felt the case to be complicated and that not enough information was available. The inspector met with the Chair. She confirmed that the Panel in general received good quality information about children and carers in order to approve and match. Records of Panel meetings were clear, and relevant sections were held on the relevant foster carer file. The Chair confirmed that Panel members received training and induction. The inspector saw the Fostering panel Induction pack. The Chair also confirmed that the Panel performed a quality assurance role, and was about to begin receiving regular reports from the newly appointed Independent Reviewing Officer for foster carers. In order to ensure the independence of the Panel arrangements were in place for some

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

functions of the Panel to be chaired on a collaborative basis by officers from adjoining authorities. Panel membership is properly constituted. Foster carers told the inspector that they felt the Panel they attended had been fair and considerate; one did say that this was the case, although she said it had been “the most nerve wracking day of my life.” Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 35

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The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

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

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

of children receiving short-term breaks. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 The fostering service has developed a part of its resources to provide short-term breaks, home from home services for children with disabilities, and respite for foster care placements. The inspector visited one home from home care. She said she was happy with the service she received from the Directorate and enjoyed being involved with providing a respite service. She confirmed that she had taken a placement for a week, and not been provided with any LAC documentation not had she signed a foster care agreement. She had received information from the existing carer.

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See requirement 1

Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 36

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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? 3 At the time of the inspection the Directorate had 23 placements of children with family or friends. The appointment of the Independent Reviewing Officer would enable the Directorate to begin annual reviews of these carers; this process had already started. One member of staff had also been appointed specifically to offer care to kinship carers. The inspector visited one placement. The carers said at first the support they had received from the Directorate was “bodged” and it had led to them making a complaint. When the case transferred to the Fostering Team they felt the support they then had was much better, and now they had no complaints at all. The young person confirmed she received effective support from the Directorate. She said she felt she had been bullied at her school, but her carers and the social workers had provided advice and guidance, and had made contact with her school.

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

Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 37

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Date

Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 38

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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 7 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 Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 39

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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. Halton Borough Council Fostering Service Page 40

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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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relating to the inspection conducted on 7 February 2005 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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Halton Borough Council Fostering Service / 7th February 2005

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

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Halton Borough Council Fostering Service / 7th February 2005

Telephone: 020 7979 2000 Fax: 020 7979 2111

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Halton Borough Council Fostering Service / 7th February 2005

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

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Halton Borough Council Fostering Service / 7th February 2005

S0000041916.V204776.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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Halton Borough Council Fostering Service / 7th February 2005

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

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