What has happened in recent years to address the problems for foster carers and their families when maltreatment is alleged? Is the situation as bad as ever, or have practice and policy improved? My review of recent professional literature suggests that most nations have not improved how foster carers are dealt with when maltreatment is alleged. But one thoughtful entity, the UK, is pursuing good research and policy changes. The current research points out the same problems in agency responses to foster care maltreatment allegations as in the 1980s and 1990s.
I will cover why foster carers are mistreated when allegations arise; how agency response by well-intended staff harms foster carers and their children; why children usually are not allowed to return to their foster homes when the accusations are unsubstantiated (majority of cases); what changes in practice would alleviate the harm and still protect children; what can be done to better handle the inevitable allegations. I will show why allegations cannot be prevented; how good policy can be implemented; and what foster carers say they need. They need much better information on what to expect and on the process to be followed; ongoing support from the agency (yes—it is possible, and necessary to retain qualified carers); opportunity for input into the investigation; and written notice of outcome of investigations.
I give recommendations to foster carers for how to sustain yourselves even if other parties are acting badly: documenting in writing the daily relevant events of your foster home. Despite so much unnecessary suffering still being inflicted, I am hopeful that the genuine concern of UK personnel will help generate real solutions useful ‘round the world. Time will be available for audience questions, ideas and experiences.
