Nationally we are more than 8,000 foster carers short, meaning that many children who would be best served by living in a family environment are being denied the opportunity to experience 'normal' family life. The Fostering Network recently surveyed local authorities in England, Scotland and Wales, and its figures suggest that 66 per cent of responding authorities are paying at or below the Fostering Network's minimum recommended weekly allowances. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to guess who is making up the shortfall - the foster carers!
As a professional foster carer, I take Ms Seabrook's comments about standards of care personally. I can put my hand on my heart, look her in the eye and tell her that my looked-after child has had the best standard of love, care and attention it has been possible for my family and me to provide. In all probability, it has at times been better than that received by my own three children during whose formative years I worked full-time.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here
