Thread by @fosteringnet

Following the Government’s announcement, they have published their strategy for the reform of children’s social care in England.

This thread will introduce some of the key developments laid out for fostering ⬇️

National minimum allowances increase by 12.43% in England from April.

Our #TheCostofFostering campaign raised the financial dilemma facing many foster carers. We are delighted Gov has listened.

This historic increase will help foster families support children to thrive.

Mockingbird will be further embedded across the country, starting in the North East. This is part of a package of support to improve recruitment & retention of foster carers.

This recognises the transformational effect Mockingbird has on the lives of children & foster carers.

Retention will be looked at alongside Gov plans to recruit more foster carers.

Retaining knowledgeable & experienced foster carers is equally, if not more, important than recruitment.

We made a strong case for this, based on views of our members & these plans reflect this.

Guidance will be updated such that foster carers should have delegated authority by default.

Foster carers felt this recommendation would improve outcomes for children, so they don’t have to miss out on things their peers experience. We warmly welcome this.

We called on the Government to extend Staying Put to 23 and we are pleased they have agreed to do this.

We will continue to reflect foster carers views - that financial support is essential to ensure foster families are able to provide ongoing support for young people.

Read the Government’s full plans here ➡️ bit.ly/3XdkB4J