Being a Foster Carer
Support for Carers
All foster carers receive a foster care allowance to make sure that the carers are not out of pocket when caring for a child. In most circumstances a fee is also payable. This reflects the amount of extra tasks expected of a carer and the demands placed on them in caring for a child or young person.
Foster carers do not work in isolation but in partnership with the Child Care services. There is an expectation that foster carers will be involved in decision making forums regarding the children they are caring for e.g. attending Child Care Reviews and Case Conferences and working with Children's Hearing and Courts. Fostering is a demanding task, which will have implications for you and your family.
Assessment and Training
All prospective carers will be offered training and information before an application is approved.
An assessment will be completed over approximately 3 - 4 months. This will consider the kinds of tasks you could do and what kind of child would be most suitable in terms of your preference, capabilities, accommodation and lifestyle. The Service has an obligation to take up health, police, local authority and personal references. Once an assessment is completed a report is presented to a Fostering Panel for approval. A social worker who specialises in fostering support will be your link worker to make sure you receive appropriate support throughout assessment, and after approval.
All kinds of people foster. There are no formal qualifications required other than patience, flexibility, energy, understanding and a commitment to children.
If you are interested or want further information, you can contact the Team Manager whose address and telephone number is listed below. You can also make contact by e-mail or by using the 'Request more information' link.
Foster Carer's story
For a personal view point on being a foster carer, you can read Susan Green's story.
Publications & documents
See also
Page tools
Contact information
For further information about this page please contact:
Social Care Officer, Child Care
Lime Tree House, Castle Street, Alloa, FK10 1EX
Tel: 01259 225000 / 450000 Fax: 01259 225004
Email: childcare@clacks.gov.uk
Or use the on-line contact form
