Contents

Please note: having consulted with staff, Foster Parents, children and young people, AFA Fostering has reviewed its use of language and terminology and we will be adopting some changes to our approach. While these are being fully implemented, you may notice that some of the terminology in our policies is not consistent. Please bear with us while we change all of our documents as they are periodically reviewed.

Fostering Service

• Statement of purpose
• Record keeping and confidentiality for staff and Foster Parents
• Data protection policy
• Data Protection – AFA Record Retention Schedule
• Fostering panel
• Complaints and compliments
• Equal opportunities policy
• Whistleblowing
• Participation and Advocacy policy
• Position statement
• Environmental Policy

Safeguarding Children and Young People

• Safeguarding policy – including Risk assessment, safer caring, E-safety and safe use of images, and child protection referrals
• Safeguarding children from:
  • Child sexual exploitation
  • Female genital mutilation
  • Honour based violence
  • Trafficking
  • Radicalisation
  • Involvement in gang activity
  • Bullying
  • Criminal Exploitation including County Lines
• Missing from care
• Managing Allegations, Complaints and Standards of Care Issues about Foster Parents
• Notifications of significant events to other agencies
• Safer recruitment

Fostering Role

• Assessment and approval of Foster Parents
• Review of Foster Parents
• Changes of approval and exemptions
• Changes in Fostering Households and Relationships
• Regular childcare and overnight stays with support carers
• Supervision, support and training of Foster Parents
• Care arrangements with Foster Parents
• Education
• Expectation of Foster Parents’ behaviour
• Pet ownership policy

Caring for Children and Young People

• Delegated authority
• Behaviour management
• Alcohol, drugs and solvents
• Smoking and e-cigarettes
• Medication and first aid
• Preparing for independence and staying put
• Use of CCTV in the Foster Home
• Self Harm