6.1.7 Support for Foster Carers with Equipment and Furniture |
Fostering is not without its costs and skill and maintenance payments are made to enable carers to meet these costs.
However, in addition to the skill payment and maintenance allowance, foster carers may initially request furniture and equipment needed to appropriately care for children.
Newly approved carers may already have suitable bedroom furniture but if not, they may request a cot bed or bed (dependant on age approval), wardrobe and set of drawers, which will be provided for each placement they are able to offer not for each child they subsequently care for. This request should be made to the assessing social worker following approval or to the supervising social worker where a further placement is being made available.
The furniture will be provided from the Family Services Stores or directly by Family Services, which has special purchasing arrangements. Delivery will also be arranged.
Foster carers who purchase alternative furniture to that which is provided by Family Services must do so at their own expense.
If the standard furniture is not suitable due to the special needs of a particular child, a request may be submitted for alternative furniture to be provided. This must be endorsed by the child's social worker and approved by a Fostering Team Manager.
Foster Carers who are providing care for babies may request essential equipment such as bottles, sterilising equipment, pushchairs and car seats. These should remain with the foster carers for future placements.
It is the responsibility of the foster carer subsequently to maintain the child's bedroom against wear and tear, but in exceptional circumstances (i.e. if they are damaged by a child in placement) replacements to furniture, fixtures and fittings may be considered.
All requests for equipment should be made to the Fostering Team. In exceptional circumstances permission may be given for the Foster Carer to purchase equipment and be reimbursed but this permission must be sought in advance.
Basic safety items such as door catches and power outlet covers should be in place prior to a child being placed and addressed in the Health and Safety check in the Fostering assessment.
Equipment to be Provided by Family Services to be retained by the Foster Carer
Cot Bed - with mattress to be replaced for each child.
1 Set of bedding per child
Sterilizing unit and bottles x 6
3 in 1 Travel system (includes car sear, pushchair and pram)
High chair (as age appropriate)
Car seat (as age appropriate)
Smoke alarm
Carbon monoxide alarms
Fire guard (as age appropriate)
Safety gates (as age appropriate)
End