subject: New Training Standards For Fostering Children by:James Bevis [print this page] The new training for Foster carers The new training for Foster carers
The Training, Support and Development Standards for Foster Care have been developed by the Children's Workforce Development Council (CWDC) who is responsible for ensuring that people working with children, young people and their families have the best possible training, qualifications, support and advice.
The Standards have been designed to support Foster Carers from approval through the first two years of service. They give Fostering providers a framework for training and professional development which will mean Foster Carers get the best possible training, information and knowledge to make a difference to the lives of fostered children.
There are seven Standards which cover the main areas of the foster care role and set out what Foster Carers should know, understand and be able to do:
Standard 1: understand the principles and values essential for fostering children and young people.
Standard 2: understand your role as a Foster Carer.
Standard 3: understand health and safety, and healthy caring.
Standard 4: know how to communicate effectively.
Standard 5: understand the development of children and young people.
Standard 6: safeguard children and young people (keep them safe from harm).
Standard 7: develop yourself.
The Standards are designed to recognise the position of Foster Carers who provide a unique service fostering children in their own homes 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The Standards support and take Foster Carers through their pre-approval and first year of fostering. They provide a level standard to ensure all Foster Carers receive relevant induction training, support and continuing professional development accross the fostering spectrum. The Standards should be used with all new Foster Carers and by 2011, with all Foster Carers.
About the author
Simply Fostering helps people looking to foster find foster children. They also offer free help and advice to those who are thinking of becoming involved in fostering.
