Agenda item

Angela Riley, Senior Social Worker, together with fostering champions Duncan Bagshaw and Gwen Barnes, were welcomed to the meeting.

An overview of the work successful work piloted in the North East Area was given, and it was noted that each area was now assigned a lead social worker and two foster carers acting as champions.

Members heard that there were 145 fostering households in Barnsley, with around 310 children currently in foster care.  In 2017/18  and addition 37 households were recruited, which was greater than previously and this was attributed to the approach taken in the North East Area.  The target for 2018/19 was a net gain of 30 households, recognising that as many are recruited some also retire from caring.

In recruiting additional foster carers, this would help to ensure those in care could stay in Barnsley and would reduce the disruption caused by placements out of the borough.  Members heard how the fostering team aims to place children within a 20 mile area.

 A discussion took place regarding the different types of fostering, from short term respite to long term, and the process interested individuals would engage with to become foster carers.

Given the limited resources the team had targeted community events which had the greatest footfall, and where families would attend in order to start conversations with those who may be interested.  Members were asked to forward details of events to the team and feedback which were likely to be the most successful in terms of engaging those potentially interested.

Aside from making links with the South Area Team, it was suggested that representatives could advocate on behalf of the recruitment process at Ward Alliances, through the South Area’s Facebook page and through the Community Magazine.

RECOMMENDED that thanks be given for the presentation and Members pledge to support the drive to recruit foster carers in the South Area wherever possible.