Children's minister Tim Loughton has written to all local authorities in England to ensure that foster carers are not faced with too many restrictions when making everyday decisions about the children they care for.
This includes dealing with the 'myth' that CRB checks are always needed before children can sleepover with their friends. The DfE is supporting the development of a toolkit by the Fostering Network to help local authorities work with foster carers. A consultation on fostering and children's homes runs until 19 November. www.education.gov.uk/consultations.
