(often referred to as Safeguarding)
Protecting children is the thread that runs through every task in fostering. Positive Aspirations Group works to the statutory framework in our Safeguarding Policy and follows Lord Laming’s principle that keeping children safe is everyone’s responsibility.
Noticing and reporting a concern
Most safeguarding starts with a small observation: a bruise that does not match the child’s story, an uncomfortable exchange on a contact visit, a disclosure whispered at bedtime. Your first duty is to stay calm and make an exact, contemporaneous note. As soon as it is safe to do so, telephone either your Supervising Social Worker (SSW) or the child’s social worker. They will decide whether the matter meets the threshold for a referral to the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO). Where the threshold is met, the LADO coordinates the investigation with police and social-care colleagues; the agency’s role is to share records and cooperate. We never run our own side-investigation because that puts evidence at risk.
Key actions for carers:
- Write the child’s own words and the facts you saw (date, time, who was present).
- Do not question the child beyond clarifying what happened and who was involved.
- Phone the SSW/child’s SW immediately — do not wait until the next working day.
- Email or hand over your written note; upload a full incident record within 24 hours.
When an allegation is made about you or your household
Allegations hurt and can feel intensely personal, yet they must be treated with the same discipline. Under the Allegations and Complaints Policy we are obliged to notify the child’s placing authority, your home authority and Ofsted. A strategy meeting decides how much information can be shared with you without prejudicing the enquiry. During that time you will be offered:
- an independent social-work advocate paid for by the agency;
- 24-hour legal and emotional support via Foster Talk (included in your membership);
- clear written updates after each decision-making meeting.
Outcome categories (national standard) are substantiated, unsubstantiated, unfounded, or no-further-action.
Standards-of-care investigations
Sometimes the concern is about practice quality rather than harm (e.g. late medicals, weak recording). These are managed under the Standards of Care Foster-Carer Investigation Policy. You and your SSW agree an action plan—extra training, closer supervision, updated risk assessments—and progress is reviewed at an early follow-up.
If usual channels fail – whistle-blowing
The Whistle-blowing Policy gives you a protected route to raise any safeguarding worry you feel is being ignored. You may contact the agency whistle-blowing officers or go direct to Ofsted (0300 123 3155, whistleblowing@ofsted.gov.uk). Law and policy protect you from reprisals for speaking up in good faith.
Helping a child who discloses abuse
Children often test our reaction before they tell the whole story. A trauma-sensitive response builds trust and keeps the account intact for professionals who must investigate.
- Stay regulated: breathe slowly, keep your tone gentle.
- Listen more than you speak; nod or say, “I’m listening.”
- No promises of secrecy; explain that certain adults must know so they can help.
- Reassure safety now: “You did the right thing telling me. You’re safe here.”
- Return to routine: a drink, favourite programme, bedtime story. Predictability calms.
- Write it up promptly using the child’s words, then inform your SSW/child’s SW.
- Log the incident on the secure system within 24 hours and enter a brief note in your weekly recordings.
The child can also use the confidential routes in the Children & Young People’s Representations & Complaints Procedure; remind them of this right.
Looking after yourself
Hearing painful disclosures or facing an allegation can trigger shock, anger or shame. Share those feelings with your SSW, independent advocate or peer mentor—unprocessed stress makes safeguarding work harder. Self-care is not a luxury; it is part of keeping children safe.
In summary: notice, record, report—and then keep caring. Your calm, prompt action could be the moment a child’s journey toward safety and recovery truly begins.
