Nationally there is a shortage of foster carers. The more foster carers Lancashire is able to recruit and retain, the more able we are to place Lancashire children with Lancashire foster carers. This not only results in a financial saving, but also allows our most vulnerable children to be cared for by foster carers assessed and supported by Lancashire County Council. This report sets out a strategy to support the recruitment and retention of foster carers in Lancashire County Council including:
(i) Support to Lancashire foster carers who are also employees of Lancashire
County Council Fostering Wellbeing Activity Programme;
(ii) Retainer fees;
(iii) Word of mouth referrals;
(iv) Welcome recommendation for new applicants.
Decision type: Non-key
Decision status: Recommendations Approved
Divisions affected: (All Divisions);
Notice of proposed decision first published: 04/11/2020
Anticipated restriction: Part I -
Decision due: 3 Dec 2020 by Cabinet
Lead member: Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Schools
Lead director: Executive Director of Education and Children's Services
Contact: Barbara Bath, Head of Service Adoption, Fostering, Adoption & Residential YOT Email: Barbara.Bath@lancashire.gov.uk Tel: 01772 535491.