Setting

Service

Central House Gladstone Street Darlington County Durham DL3 6JX

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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. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 1

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Name of Authority

Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service

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Address

Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service, Central House, Gladstone Street, Darlington, County Durham, DL3 6JX

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Address

Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service, Central House, Gladstone Street, Darlington, County Durham, DL3 6JX

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Date of first registration Date of latest registration certificate

Date of last inspection 24/02/04 Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 2 Date of Inspection Visit 14th February 2005 ID Code

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Date of first registration Date of latest registration certificate

Name of Inspector 1 Michele Hargan 076522

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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

Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 3

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D.3. Provider’s agreement

Darlington Local Authority 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 Darlington Local Authority 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 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. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 5 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SERVICES PROVIDED. This local authority provides a well-established fostering service, which places children with foster carers on both a long- term and short- term basis.

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INSPECTION VISITS

The service actively recruits foster carers and there are systems in place so that an initial assessment, at the stage of the first enquiry from prospective carers can be carried out. All applicants are required to complete the Foster Carer training course, which includes many essential aspects relating to safe caring, child protection and meeting the emotional needs of children who have had experience of being “Looked After”.

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INSPECTION VISITS

The service carries out a series of visits to prospective carers in order to complete the required assessment so that suitability of carers can be determined. When a satisfactory assessment has been completed, this document, which is called a Form F, is shared with applicants. The service carries out all other necessary checks including visits to referees and foster carers. Satisfactorily completed applications and other relevant details are presented to the local authority-fostering panel, which can approve or refuse applications.

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INSPECTION VISITS

Documentation is in place as required, which demonstrates that the agency is functioning appropriately. Liaison with all other relevant agencies takes place on an ongoing basis.

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INSPECTION VISITS

The service continues to be able to offer very good psychological support to children and foster carers. Darlington Local Authority 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.) This announced inspection took place between the 14 th and the 16 th of February 2005 and was conducted by Michele Hargan and Dr Michaela Griffin. A third inspector Glynis Horner also assisted with interviewing foster carers identified as part of the “tracking” process. (Tracking is aimed at identifying individual foster carers and children from within the agency and documents relating to them are read and considered against NMS and regulatory requirements). The inspection examined the progress of requirements and recommendations since the time of the last inspection. Fuller reporting in each of the standards areas is contained within the main body of the report.

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Inspector’s Summary

From the inspection it is evident that a good standard of care continues to be provided by the service to the foster carers and the children and young people using the service.

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Inspector’s Summary

The inspection focused upon key Standards. This is in line with current CSCI policy of ‘proportionality’. As a result, for some of the Standard areas in the report no comment has been made. It should also be noted that new report templates are in the process of being developed, which will be of benefit to service users, those seeking care and service providers.

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Statement of Purpose Standard 1

Documentary evidence provided by the manager for the service demonstrated that elected members have now formally approved the statement of purpose. An addition in the form of a leaflet called “Access to your Records Your Rights under Data Protection Act 1998” has been made to the young persons guide (which is in the form of an information pack). This Standard is exceeded.

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Statement of Purpose Standard 1

Fitness to provide or manage a fostering service Standards 2 and 3.

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Statement of Purpose Standard 1

Both Standards are met. A senior practioner has been appointed within the fostering team and this person is responsible for carrying out supervision and appraisal of Fostering Officers. Supervision and appraisal of staff was up to date and generally carried out on a monthly basis for a minimum of an hour and a half. Consultation with the manager for the service and the human resource department confirms that, reference checks for staff were carried out with regards to recent appointments. Written assurance was made that “signing off” check lists within recruitment files have been amended to evidence that telephone checking of references takes place. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 7 Management of the fostering service Standards 4 and 5. Standard four was met and Standard five was not assessed (it was considered at the time of the last inspection when it was found to be met). Consultation and

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Statement of Purpose Standard 1

communication between fostering social workers and colleagues in “Children In Need Teams” was reported to be very good. It was clear that the fostering service are able to offer advice and guidance to children’s social workers, regarding whether or not it was necessary to carry out an assessment on a family or friend so that they can become a carer for a child. The standard is exceeded on the basis that the previous good practice recommendation, which was for the service to complete regulation 42 reports in line with The Fostering Services Regulations 2002, is now taking place.

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Statement of Purpose Standard 1

Securing and promoting welfare Standard 6-14. Four Standards are exceeded, two Standards are met, two are almost met and one Standard was not assessed. Based on visits to foster carers, documentary evidence and completed questionnaires the service continues to make available carers who provide a good standard of care.

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Statement of Purpose Standard 1

There was some documentary evidence, which indicated that there were varying practices amongst foster carers concerning the storage, maintenance, disposal of records and policies and procedures. The service has currently placed with foster carers a number of children, from diverse backgrounds with a range of needs, which were reported as being well met. Barnardos Shared Care scheme continue to be accessed by the service for children with disabilities. The service has made significant investment so that a website specifically for children and young people being looked after called “CareZone” has been made available to them. The site is designed to provide support, guidance and information to children and young people placed by the fostering service.

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Statement of Purpose Standard 1

Fostering Officers were knowledgeable about the skills of carers and gaps in matches were well reported as being addressed, however documentary evidence did not reflect the investment and considerations made by staff in this area. Agreement was reached with the senior practioner and manager for the team that further developments would be carried out so that considerations in relation to matching could be more effectively demonstrated.

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Statement of Purpose Standard 1

The service takes appropriate action in order to protect children and young people. Further work is being undertaken so that additional specific guidance will be in place, as to how to ensure procedures are fairly and appropriately implemented, if allegations about foster carers are made. Consultation with the manager and staff of the service confirms that contact arrangements for children and young people continue to be appropriately promoted. Assurance was given that the reviewing process affords young people an opportunity to raise any concerns or comments that they may have. A number of sources reported significant improvements in the numbers of children and young people attending reviews.

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Statement of Purpose Standard 1

The health needs of children are accorded a high priority. Some specialist British Association for Adoption and Fostering (BAAF) training has been provided to Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 8 foster carers designed to meet the needs of children who have experienced sexual abuse. There are very effective and well -established links in place with Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) and other health care professionals. Specialist training had been delivered to foster cares specifically about the educational needs of children and young people. Additional written guidance about education is provided to them in the form of a traffic light matrix identifying what action carers must take to promote achievements and in the event of any concerns.

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Recruiting checking and managing, supporting and training staff and

Two Standards are exceeded, three Standards are met, one Standard is almost met and three Standards were not assessed. All staff are qualified, experienced and knowledgeable and presented as committed to working with and supporting carers. They confirmed that appropriate recruitment practices are in place. The senior manager carries out confirmations of staff references. Staff supervision takes place regularly. Various sources expressed concerns about insufficient staff and an appreciation of the perceived demands that staff experience. Some foster carers questionnaires indicated concern about the unavailability of fostering workers, however there were also reports of very good support by fostering workers. Out of hours support and behaviour management training were reported as areas for improvement by carers. One recommendation remains outstanding in relation to the whistleblowing policy being made known to foster

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Recruiting checking and managing, supporting and training staff and

carers. The strategy for working with carers was obviously owned by the fostering team. This was further supported by changes made since the previous inspection so that an administrator within the team is now responsible for making payments to carers.

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Recruiting checking and managing, supporting and training staff and

One Standard was almost met and one Standard was met. The service continues to hold the necessary records in line with regulatory requirements. Training records for carers on files did not appear to be maintained up to date. There also seemed to be some variable practice as to how foster carers maintained their own portfolio of training. A good practice recommendation made at that time of the last inspection has now been implemented so that a leaflet informing children, young people and their parents about their right to access information under the Data Protection Act has been produced.

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Recruiting checking and managing, supporting and training staff and

Fitness of premises for use of fostering service Standard 26. This Standard was not assessed (it was considered during the last inspection when it was found to be fully met).

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Recruiting checking and managing, supporting and training staff and

Financial requirements Standard 27-29. Two Standards were not assessed (they were considered during the last inspection when they were found to be fully met). One Standard was exceeded. There have been significant changes made with the arrangements for paying foster carers. Consultation with the fostering administrator confirms that this has Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 9 been of significant benefit to the foster carers and the service. Queries can be speedily addressed and additional payments made to foster carers.

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Recruiting checking and managing, supporting and training staff and

This Standard is met. Panel policies and procedures, recruitment assessment and training document’s for carers and the services strategy for working with and supporting carers has been sent to panel members. Training for panel members has been agreed. This will focus on plans for prospective carers to attend panel and consideration of the new review documentation for foster carers.

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Recruiting checking and managing, supporting and training staff and

This Standard is met. The service recognise that birth parents retain responsibility for the health and educational needs of the children and young people placed.

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Recruiting checking and managing, supporting and training staff and

Family and friends as carers Standard 32.

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Recruiting checking and managing, supporting and training staff and

This Standard is met. Consultation with fostering officers confirms that there has been more effective consultation available to children’s social workers so that family and friend’s assessments were only carried out if necessary. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 10

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(Local Authority Fostering Services Only)

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

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(Local Authority Fostering Services Only)

YES 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:

Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 11

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Implementation of Statutory Requirements from Last Inspection

Requirements from last Inspection visit fully actioned? NA

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

Identified below are areas not addressed from the last inspection report which indicate a non-compliance with the Care Standards Act 2000 and Fostering Services Regulations 2002. No. Regulation Standard Required actions Timescale for action

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

compliance with the above requirements. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 12

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

the evidence at the time of this inspection.

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Date

Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 13

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS IDENTIFIED DURING THIS INSPECTION

Action Plan: The appropriate Officer of the Local Authority or the Registered Person (as applicable) is requested to provide the Commission with an Action Plan, which indicates how requirements 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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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 FS4FS4 The responsible person should ensure that carers are made aware of their responsibility to declare any possible conflicts of interest

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

2 FS8FS8 The responsible person should ensure that written foster placements agreements contain specific reference to elements of matching which were taken into consideration in agreeing the placement. Areas where foster carers need additional support in order to compensate for any gaps in the match between the child and the carer should also be identified.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

FS12FS1 The responsible person should ensure that all foster carers who require updates of first aid receive this as a matter of priority. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 14 4 FS6FS6 The registered person should undertake an audit of all foster carers documentation to ensure that all necessary information is accessible and held appropriately. Any unnecessary records should be disposed of appropriately and all information held by foster carers should be readily available for inspection purposes.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

5 FS9FS9 The registered person should ensure that the procedure to be followed in the event that a child goes missing makes clear what if any additional action should or should not be taken by foster carers in such circumstances. For example carrying out a search.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

FS11FS1 The registered person should ensure that evidence is maintained which demonstrates that all children are made aware of how to raise a complaint or concern and that effective consultation with children on all matters affecting them on day- to-day basis takes place.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

FS16FS1 The registered person should ensure that the relevant CSCI report of an Independent Fostering Agency is checked prior to placement.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

FS18FS1 The registered person should ensure that the whistleblowing policy is made known to foster carers with out delay.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

FS21FS2 The registered person should carry out a consultation exercise with carers to establish their views and identify any areas for improvement including out of hours support.

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

FS24FS2 The registered person should ensure that there is a written policy on case recording, which establishes the purpose format and contents of files and clarifies what information, is kept on the child’s and carer’s file. Training records of foster carers should be maintained up to date by the service, which should ensure that carers also have an up to date record.

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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. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service 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 6

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

Survey of placing authorities YES Foster carer survey YES Foster children survey YES Checks with other organisations and Individuals YES • Directors of Social services YES • Child protection officer YES • Specialist advisor (s) YES • Local Foster Care Association NO Tracking Individual welfare arrangements YES • Interview with children YES • Interview with foster carers YES • Interview with agency staff YES • Contact with parents NO • Contact with supervising social workers YES • Examination of files YES Individual interview with manager YES Information from provider YES Individual interviews with key staff YES Group discussion with staff NO Interview with panel chair YES Observation of foster carer training NO Observation of foster panel YES Inspection of policy/practice documents YES Inspection of records YES Interview with individual child YES

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

Date of Inspection 14/02/2005 Time of Inspection 9:30 Duration Of Inspection (hrs) 50 Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service 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. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service 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

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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? 4 This Standard was not fully assessed on this occasion (it was considered during the last inspection of the home at which time it was fully met). However documentary evidence provided by the manager for the service demonstrated that elected members have now formally approved the statement of purpose. An addition in the form of a leaflet called “Access to your Records Your Rights under Data Protection Act 1998” has been made to the young persons guide (which is in the form of an information pack). This leaflet is available in Braille, large print and audiocassette and other languages upon request from the service. The standard is exceeded on the basis of the additional information made available within the young persons guide. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service 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

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appropriate skills and experience to do so efficiently and effectively

and by those who are suitable to work with children.

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met?

This was not a key Standard however it was assessed on the basis that significant changes had taken place. Consultation with staff and documentary evidence concludes that at the time of the inspection all vacancies within the team had been filled. (However one member of staff had not commenced work and a start date was being negotiated). A senior practioner has been appointed within the team and this person is responsible for carrying out supervision and appraisal of team members. Supervision and appraisal of staff was up to date and generally carried out on a monthly basis for a minimum of an hour and a half. It was clear that the manager and senior practioner for the service exercise effective leadership.

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met?

Improvements have been made in this area in that the administrator for the service is now responsible for payments to foster carers. Administrative staff stated that this had improved the service to foster carers significantly and enabled any queries raised by carers or staff to be swiftly dealt with. Another full time member of staff has been appointed to assist with the additional administrative work that this improvement has necessitated. Administrative support to the team is excellent. This standard is capable of being exceeded should this level of administrative support become permanent. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 19

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met?

This Standard was almost met at the time of the last inspection, when it was recommended that the responsible person should ensure that there is a system in place, so that telephone enquiries are routinely made to follow up written references. This should be included within the “Policy Statement on Recruitment and Selection”. Consultation with the manager for the service and the human resource department confirms that reference checks were carried out with regards to recent appointments. Written assurance was made that “signing off” check lists within recruitment files have been amended to evidence that telephone checking of references takes place. Recruitment files for all members of staff were examined and found to comply with SCHEDULE 1 of The Fostering Services Regulations 2002. This standard is now met. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 20

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The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• The fostering service is managed ethically and efficiently, delivering

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There are clear procedures for monitoring and controlling the activities

of the fostering service and ensuring quality performance.

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met?

A good practice recommendation was made within this Standard at the time of the last inspection. This has now been addressed with the carrying out of Regulation 42 monitoring on a monthly basis, a total of 7 reports were in evidence including reporting for January 2005. Consultation with staff concludes that communication and accountability between managers and staff continues to be clear. Staff reported all managers as operating an open door policy.

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met?

Consultation and communication between fostering social workers and colleagues in “Children In Need Teams” was reported to be very good. It was clear that the fostering service are able to offer advice and guidance upon request, for example regarding the necessity or not for family or friends as carers assessments to be completed. The standard is exceeded on the basis of the implementation of the good practice recommendation.

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met?

The responsible person should ensure that carers are made aware of their responsibility to declare any possible conflicts of interest.

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met?

Number of statutory notifications made to CSCI in last 12 months: 0

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met?

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

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12 months:

Number of the above complaints which were substantiated: 0 Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 21

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Standard 5 (5.1 - 5.4)

The fostering service is managed effectively and efficiently.

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met?

This is not a key Standard. However some significant developments had taken place since the last inspection. A Senior Practioner has been appointed since the time of the last inspection and the job description for this post makes clear the “REPORTING RELATIONSHIP” by the post holder to the Children’s Accommodation Manager who has overall responsibility for the service. The standard continues to be met. All but one questionnaire completed by children indicated that a good range of activities were provided by foster carers. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 22

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The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

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

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met?

A good practice recommendation was made within this Standard at the time of the last inspection. This has now been addressed by the carrying out of an audit designed to conclusively establish, whether or not there was a significant problem with children and young people sharing bedroom accommodation. It is pleasing to report that documentary evidence concludes that each child has their own bedroom except in the case of siblings and where a preference has been made to share. Sub standards continue to be met in this area. The service has made some progress in the area of risk assessment. Based on visits to foster carers documentary evidence and questionnaires completed by carers the service continues to make available carers who provide a good standard of care.

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met?

There was some documentary evidence, which indicated that there were varying practices amongst foster carers with regards to the storage, maintenance and disposal of records and policies and procedures.

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met?

The registered person should undertake an audit of all foster carers documentation to ensure that all necessary information is accessible and held appropriately and any unnecessary records are disposed of appropriately. All information held by foster carers should be readily available for inspection purposes. See recommendation 4. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 23

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met?

At the last inspection this standard was fully met. However a previous good practice recommendation aimed at ensuring clarity for children and young people regarding awards for educational achievement has been implemented. Consultation with staff and documentary evidence concludes “all achievements, however small, be acknowledged/celebrated and support offered when young people were disappointed”. A range of awards and rewards has been identified and these are to be agreed on an individual basis with each child. They are also to be written into the Personal Education Plan (PEP) at the time of education meetings.

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met?

The service has currently placed with foster carers a number of children from diverse backgrounds with a range of needs, which were reported as being well met. Barnardos Shared Care schemes continue to be accessed by the service for children with disabilities. Consideration is being given as to the production of leaflets about fostering being produced in other languages including Bengali. A significant investment has been made by the fostering service with the purchase of “CareZone” a website designed specifically only for access by children looked after from the age of 10-14 years which takes into account National Minimum Standards and outcomes. The site provides advice, support and guidance to children and young people about relevant issues and being looked after. Assurance was given by senior staff within the service that all children and young people will have access to a PC by the end of March 2005 so as to be able

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met?

to access this facility. Systems are in place so that progress with the CareZone site can be reviewed on a six monthly basis with the fostering service.

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met?

This Standard is exceeded on the basis of the additional implementation of the aforementioned good practice recommendation and the investment with regards to the CareZone facility. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 24

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met?

This standard was almost met at the time of the last inspection. Some progress regarding recommendations made at that time concerning risk assessment and matching have been made, however further work still needs to be carried out in order to evidence that the standard outcome is fully achieved. Documentary evidence and consultation with staff strongly indicates that effective matching takes place. Since the time of the last inspection 2 disruptions were reported as having taken place and disruption meetings were held. It was clear that team members were knowledgeable about the skills of carers and gaps in matches were well reported as being addressed, however documentary evidence did not reflect the investment and considerations made by staff in this area. Agreement was reached with the senior practioner and manager for the team that further work would be carried out in this area, so that matching considerations could be

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met?

The responsible person should ensure that written foster placements agreements contain specific reference to elements of matching which were taken into consideration in agreeing the placement and identify areas where foster carers need additional support in order to compensate for any gaps in the match between the child and the carer. See recommendation 2.

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

of abuse, neglect, exploitation and deprivation.

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met?

This standard was exceeded at the time of the last inspection. A previous recommendation has now been implemented by amendment to the procedure to be undertaken if a young persons goes missing. This document could be further improved so that it makes clear what if any additional action it should or should not be taken by foster carers in such circumstances. The good practice identified at the time of the last inspection continues. All reviews of foster carers are shared with panel as indicated within “The procedure to ensure the protection of children placed with foster parents from abuse and or neglect”. It was evident that the service takes appropriate action in order to protect children and young people. Further work is being undertaken in this area by the drawing up of additional specific guidance as to how to ensure procedures are fairly and appropriately implemented if allegations about foster carers are made.

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met?

Assurance was given that when completed the guidance will be inserted into the Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 25 Foster Carers’ handbook. Systems remain in place so that any issues of bullying are raised if necessary in liaison with education services. The Standard continues to be exceeded on the basis that all reviews of foster carers continue to go back to panel.

p.26

met?

The registered person should ensure that the procedure to be followed in the event that a child goes missing makes clear what if any additional action should or should not be taken by foster carers in such circumstances. For example carrying out a search. See recommendation 5.

p.27

met?

This Standard was fully met at the time of the last inspection. Consultation with the manager and staff of the service confirms that contact arrangements for children and young people continue to be appropriately promoted. Good practice recommendations made previously have now been implemented by the “Facilitating Contact Recording Sheet for Foster Carers” being dated. The Senior Practioner for the team confirmed that progress had been made with regards to timelier liaison with children and young people’s social workers in relation to the carrying out of Regulation 38 assessments. Case records for children included details of contact arrangements. Visits to foster carers confirm that contact arrangements for children and young people are appropriately supported. The standard continues to be met.

p.27

families and others significant to the child, are sought over all issues

that are likely to affect their daily life and their future.

p.27

met?

This Standard was almost met at the time of the last inspection. A previous recommendation about how children and young people with communication needs are consulted about their care and treatment has been addressed. A Picture Exchange Cards System (PECS) is used as a communication tool by social workers within teams serving the needs of children and young people with disabilities. The service is aware that this system is also used by the Barnardo’s Project. This local authority has a service level agreement in place to link children with disabilities with foster carers. Written assurance was made that the additional resources aimed at facilitating consultation with children who have special needs is available to the service from Barnardo’s. The local authority Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 26 Independent Reviewing Officer for children and young people confirms that work had been undertaken to consult with young people. Assurance was given that

p.27

met?

the reviewing process provides an opportunity to raise any concerns or comments that children and young people may have. A number of sources reported significant improvements in the numbers of children and young people attending reviews.

p.28

met?

Eleven questionnaires were returned and completed by children. Just over half of the children and young people who responded felt that they were consulted by the service about their individual foster carer. The majority felt that they were not asked by the service about how things could be improved. Just over half indicated that their social workers sometimes saw them on their own and just under half indicated that their social worker’s often saw them on their own to ask them their opinions. Just under half indicated that their foster carers often asked the opinions and ideas. Just under half of the children and young people indicated that they had been given copies of children’s guide. Just under half indicated that they knew how to make a complaint and the rest indicated that they did not know. The majority did not know how to get in touch with the CSCI.

p.28

met?

As previously referred to CareZone is a very positive initiative, however the service also need to evidence how children below the ages of 12 and over 14 years of age are consulted with about all matters affecting their daily life. The service is currently advertising a half time post for a “Looked After Children’s Development Officer” and it was envisaged that with this appointment consultation would be further improved.

p.28

met?

The registered person should ensure that evidence is maintained which demonstrates that all children are made aware of how to raise a complaint or concern and that effective consultation with children on all matters affecting them on day-to-day basis takes place. See recommendation 6.

p.28

met?

At the last inspection this standard was fully met. A previous good practice recommendation regarding the provision of a health care record for each child has now been produced. The inspection team were given to understand that such records were in the process of being implemented. The health care record is a very good quality document, which is comprehensive and user friendly. Health care records are presented in two formats appropriate to age and they also contain advice and information. These documents can be easily be updated, and move with the child as necessary. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 27 It was evident that the health needs of children are accorded a high priority. Some specialist BAAF training has been provided to foster carers designed to meet the needs of children who have experienced sexual abuse. There are very effective and well-established links in place with Child and Adolescent Mental

p.28

met?

Health Services (CAMHS) and other health care professionals. Joint training and initiatives take place within the service for the benefit of foster carers in meeting children and young peoples needs. The service reported that there were plans in place for the appointment by the Primary Care Trust (PCT) of a designated nurse specifically for looked after children. Clearly this would be a positive development. Foster carers required updates with regards to First Aid training and assurance was given that this would be addressed.

p.29

met?

The manager for the service reported that the target regarding health care assessments for “Looked After Children” had been exceeded. This standard is exceeded on the basis of that a comprehensive health care record has been devised for use by foster carers, children and young people.

p.29

met?

The responsible person should ensure that all foster carers who require updates of first aid receive this as a matter of priority. See recommendation 3.

p.29

needs of each child or young person in foster care and ensures that

she/he is encouraged to attain her/his full potential.

p.29

met?

This standard was fully met at the time of the last inspection. A good practice recommendation previously made concerning ensuring additional resources for children not in receipt of full time education being identified to cares has been achieved. Only one young person was reported as being excluded from education and assurance was made that additional resources had been identified in order to meet this need. The “Joint Education And Social Services Strategy For Improvement In Education Of Looked After Children” continues in place, and outlines how the responsible authorities will ensure that children receive maximum educational attainment. This document also outlines the intention to “Offer support and alternative provision as appropriate”. Specialist training had been delivered to foster cares specifically about educational needs of children and young people. Additional written guidance about education for foster carers

p.29

met?

is provided to them in the form of a traffic light matrix identifying what action they must take in line with the level of achievements and in the event of any concerns. Systems continue to be utilised so that educational attainment, progress and school attendance of children is closely monitored. Based on the high priority accorded to education by the service and the reported improvements in educational attainment by young people the standard is exceeded. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 28

p.29

The fostering service ensures that their foster care services help to

develop skills, competence and knowledge necessary for adult living.

p.30

met?

This Standard was not fully assessed on this occasion (it was considered during the last announced inspection when it was found to be fully met). However sufficient evidence was made available during the course of the inspection, which indicates that the standard has been maintained. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 29

p.30

The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

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

p.31

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

sufficient to achieve the purposes and functions of the organisation.

p.31

met?

This standard was met at time of last inspection, consultation with the senior manager confirms that standards continue to be achieved. All staff are qualified, experienced and knowledgeable. Staff present as committed and were able to confirm that appropriate recruitment practices are in place. The senior manager confirms staff references. Staff acknowledged the meaningful contribution to the team by the senior practioner. Some research work was reported to be taking place specifically relating to the role of single male carers. It was indicated that this may lead to further initiatives aimed at recruiting and retaining male carers. Staff receive the necessary training in order to carry out assessments of foster carers. Based on the additional research work being undertaken this standard is exceeded.

p.31

met?

This was not a key Standard. However sufficient evidence was made available during the course of the inspection, to demonstrate that the standard continues to be met. Staff supervision takes place regularly. Staff have copies of all necessary policies and procedures in relation to their employment and conduct. The attention of staff has been drawn to the services disciplinary procedures in writing. Disciplinary procedures now reflect regulatory requirements of the Fostering Services Regulations 2002. It was established that CSCI reports of Independent Fostering Agencies (IFA) were not always checked prior to use. An agreement was reached with senior managers for the service that in future an Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 30 inspection report of IFA would be sought in compliance with NMS 16.6.

p.31

met?

The registered person should ensure that the relevant CSCI report of an IFA is checked prior to any placement. See recommendation 7

p.32

met?

This Standard was met at the time of the last inspection. Foster cares competencies are considered in line with NMS. The previous recommendation in relation to Recruitment Assessment and Training has been met. Foster carers questionnaires indicated some concern about the unavailability of fostering workers. However there were also reports of very good support by fostering workers. Out of hours support and behaviour management were reported as areas for improvement by foster carers. As previously indicted increased administrative support is currently provided. The service has a wide range of carers meeting a diverse range of children and young people’s needs. Staff were able to provide good examples of the flexibility and commitment of foster carers, for example by meeting the needs of a child with reduced mobility and enabling children to participate in a varying range of activities. It is anticipated that with

p.32

met?

the improvement of the matching proforma the range and qualities of carers should be further evident by the time of the next inspection.

p.32

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

employment practices and good support for its staff and carers.

p.32

met?

This Standard was almost met at the time of the last inspection. One of the previous recommendations has been implemented so that foster carers are now provided with copies of their supervision records. One recommendation remains outstanding in relation to the whistleblowing policy being made known to foster carers. Sound employment practices continue to be in place for all staff so that the standard is now met.

p.32

met?

The registered person should ensure that the whistleblowing policy is made known to foster carers with out delay. See recommendation 8. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 31

p.32

There is a good quality training programme to enhance individual skills

and to keep staff up-to-date with professional and legal developments.

p.33

met?

This Standard was not fully assessed on this occasion (it was considered during the last inspection of the service at which time it was fully met). However sufficient evidence was supplied by the service, which demonstrates that a good range of training continues to take place. Training is evaluated and foster carers report that plenty of training was available.

p.33

Standard 20 (20.1 - 20.5)

All staff are properly accountable and supported.

p.33

met?

This Standard was not fully assessed on this occasion (it was considered during the last inspection of the service at which time it was fully met). Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 32

p.33

met?

This Standard was almost met at time of the last inspection. A recommendation made at that time has been addressed so that there is a single document in place, which outlines the services strategy for working with and supporting foster carers. The strategy for working with carers was obviously owned by the fostering team. This was further supported by changes made since the previous inspection so that an administrator within the team is now making payments to carers. A copy of the aforementioned document has been sent to panel members for their information in line with the previous recommendation. As previously referred to out of hours support was reported as an area for improvement.

p.34

met?

Based on the implementation of the good practice recommendation about panel being provided with copies of the strategy for working with and supporting carers this standard is exceeded.

p.34

met?

The registered person should carry out a consultation exercise with carers to establish their views and identify if there are any areas, which could be improved upon including out of hours support. See recommendation 9.

p.34

The fostering service is a managed one that provides supervision for

foster carers and helps them to develop their skills.

p.34

met?

At the time of the last inspection this Standard was almost met. A good practice recommendation made at that time has now been implemented so that the deregistering of carers is now included within panel policy and procedures. There was documentary evidence that formal supervision of foster carers was taking place. Consultation with the manager for the service confirms that standards have been maintained in this area. The Standard is now met. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 33

p.34

required to provide high quality care and meet the needs of each

child/young person placed in their care.

p.35

met?

This Standard was not fully assessed on this occasion (it was considered during the last inspection of the service at which time it was exceeded). There was no evidence to indicate that standards had not been maintained in this area. Questionnaire’s completed by foster carers indicated that training was relevant and frequent. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 34

p.35

The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

• All appropriate records are kept and are accessible in relation to the

p.36

met?

At the time of the last inspection this standard was almost met. A previous good practice recommendation has been implemented so that a health care record has been developed. Consultation with carers confirmed that they were provided with diaries in which to record anything of significance about the child. Foster carers said that the diaries were looked at and signed by fostering workers. As previously indicated there was some variance in practice with regards to record keeping. To this end a good practice recommendation has been made within the “Good Practice Recommendations” part of this report. The service continues to hold the necessary records in line with regulatory requirements. Training records for carers on files did not appear to be maintained up to date. There also seemed to be some variable practice as to how foster carers maintained their own portfolio of training.

p.36

met?

The registered person should ensure that there is a written policy on case recording, which establishes the purpose format and contents of files and clarifies what information, is kept on the child’s and carers file. Training records of foster carers should be maintained up to date by both the service, which should ensure that carers also have up to date record. See recommendation 10. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 35

p.36

met?

At the time of the last inspection this standard was almost met. A good practice recommendation made at that time has now been implemented so that a leaflet informing children, young people and their parents about their right to access information under the Data Protection Act has been produced. Consultation with the manager for the service confirmed that the other sub-standards have been maintained since the previous inspection so that this standard is now met.

p.37

met?

Number of current foster placements supported by the agency: 78

p.37

Maximum

£ 233 Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 36

p.37

The intended outcome for the following standard is:

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

p.38

met?

This Standard was not fully assessed on this occasion (it was considered during the last inspection of the home at which time it was fully met). Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 37

p.38

The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

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

p.39

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

financial resources to fulfil its obligations.

p.39

met?

This Standard was not fully assessed on this occasion (it was considered during the last inspection of the service at which time it was fully met).

p.39

met?

This Standard was not fully assessed on this occasion (it was considered during the last inspection of the service at which time it was fully met). Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 38

p.39

cover the full 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.

p.40

met?

This Standard was not a key area however as previously referred to there have been significant changes made with the arrangements for paying foster carers. Consultation with the fostering administrator confirms that this has made a significant benefit to the foster carers and the service. Queries can be speedily addressed and additional payments made to foster carers. Systems are in place so that careful monitoring and audit can be easily undertaken to address any issues in this area. A senior manager for the service confirmed that fees payable to foster carers were in the process of being reviewed. Based on the improvement made with regards to the administration of this service this Standard is exceeded. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 39

p.40

The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

• Fostering panels are organised efficiently and effectively so as to

p.41

foster carers, in line with the overriding objective to promote and

safeguard the welfare of children in foster care.

p.41

Fostering panels have clear written policies and procedures, which are

implemented in practice, about the handling of their functions.

p.41

met?

At the time of the last inspection this Standard was almost met. Since that time matters have been progressed in this area. Panel policies and procedures, recruitment assessment and training document for carers and the services strategy for working with and supporting carers has been sent to panel members for their information. Training for panel members has been agreed which will focus on plans for prospective carers to attend panel and the services new review documentation. It was evident that panel fulfils a quality assurance role so that the standard of assessments were monitored by panel members. There is an appropriate range of expertise and experience within panel. Administration procedures for panel are very good. Agreement was reached with the panel chair that management information would to be relayed to panel members at regular intervals about the numbers and range of prospective carers being assessed.

p.41

met?

This standards is capable of being exceeded should the further developments indicated above be evidenced at the time of the next inspection. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 40

p.41

The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

• When foster care is provided as a short-term break for a child, the

p.42

foster care, they have policies and procedures, implemented in practice,

to meet the particular needs of children receiving short-term breaks.

p.42

met?

The majority of children receiving short-term breaks do so by means of a service level agreement with Barnardo’s shared care scheme. Reviews of children and young people receiving this service were reported to be carried out in line with “Working Together” guidance. The service recognise that birth parents retain responsibility for the health and educational needs of the children and young people placed. The standard is met. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 41

p.42

The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

• Local authority fostering services' policies and procedures for

p.43

met?

At the time of the last inspection this standard was met. Electronic information systems are in place to track “Regulation 38” family and friends as carers. It was reported that where such arrangements and assessments had been made, timely monitoring of plans was being achieved, thereby reducing the likelihood of any “drift” with such arrangements. Consultation with fostering officers confirms that there has been more effective consultation available to children’s social workers so that family and friend’s assessments where only carried out if necessary. The standard is met. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 42

p.43

Date

Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 43

p.45

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 14 th February 2005 and any factual inaccuracies:

p.45

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

Please limit your comments to one side of A4 if possible The provider confirms there were no factual inaccuracies within the report and that an action plan detailing how the recommendations will be met has been forwaded to the CSCI. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 44

p.45

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

Amendments to the report were necessary NO

p.46

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

Comments were received from the provider YES

p.46

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

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

p.46

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

p.46

Note:

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

p.46

report:

Action plan was received at the point of publication YES

p.46

report:

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

p.46

report:

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

p.46

report:

Provider has declined to provide an action plan

p.46

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. Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service Page 45

p.46

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

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

p.47

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

the statutory requirements made and will seek to comply with these.

p.47

Date

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

p.47

Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service / 14th February 2005

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

p.48

Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service / 14th February 2005

Telephone: 020 7979 2000 Fax: 020 7979 2111

p.48

Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service / 14th February 2005

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

p.48

Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service / 14th February 2005

S0000043797.V159199.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

p.48

Darlington Local Authority Fostering Service / 14th February 2005

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

p.48