As a result of the current Coronavirus pandemic, the Government has implemented and made changes to regulations and Fostering legislation across the UK. These new guidelines affect local authorities, Fostering agencies like Fostering Dimensions and Fostering in Nottingham for foster carers and children.
Fostering Dimensions have summarised the changes so far and will continuously monitor any future process changes in these unprecedented times. We are working hard to ensure that your journey of Fostering in Nottingham is smooth and seamless as possible. We are here to support you and guide you, should you need it.
Educational legislation and guidance on Fostering Services
School closures
The Government have responded to Covid-19 by asking educational settings to continue to provide care for a number of children who are classed as vulnerable or children who have key workers for parents.
When fostering in Nottingham, all children in England with social workers, inclusive of foster carers all fall within the category of ‘vulnerable’. This therefore means that it is advised that they should accept the provision of provided for them in educational settings unless they have conditions with their health that puts them at risk or stops them doing so.
Our advice to you would be to familiarise yourself with the guidelines on sending your foster children into school, when and if they are open.
Returning back to school when Fostering in Nottingham
In England, the Government has announced their plans to implement phased return for children into schools. Fostering in Nottingham will be affected depending on how hold your foster children are.
Early years (aged 0-5), Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 groups have been open since 1 June, subject to local arrangements. As of 15 June, secondary schools and further education colleges will also prepare to begin some face to face support with Year 10 and 12 pupils so keep an eye open if this relates to you and your foster children.
The Department for Education has launched a new helpline to answer questions about COVID-19. Phone: 0800 046 8687 Email: DfE.coronavirushelpline@education.gov.uk (Opening hours: 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 4pm Saturday and Sunday)
Support for fostering services and foster carers
At Fostering Dimensions, we are here to help you no matter where you are in your fostering journey. Our first piece of advice is to read through the Government guidelines for local authorities with a focus in relation to Fostering in Nottingham.
We appreciate the levels of uncertainty due to Covid-19 and our helplines are open with our team ready to answer any fostering-related queries.
Whether your fostering agency is Fostering Dimensions or not, if you are concerned that your health (as a result of Covid-19 or not) will impact on your fostering, get in touch with your fostering service as they will know you, your family and most importantly the children in your care.
We are continuously monitoring the government guidelines to ensure your Fostering in Nottingham processes and procedures are not affected. If you need a place for support or simply need some advice or even a chat, feel free to contact us.
Remain Safe – we are in this together.