fostering services - ofsted

Sunbeam Fostering Agency Sheraton Business Centre 33-34 Wadsworth Road Perivale Middlesex UB6 7JB

12th, 14th, 15th & 16th February 2005

Fostering Services

Commission for Social Care Inspection Launched in April 2004, the Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) is the single inspectorate for social care in England. The Commission combines the work formerly done by the Social Services Inspectorate (SSI), the SSI/Audit Commission Joint Review Team and the National Care Standards Commission. The role of CSCI is to: • Promote improvement in social care • Inspect all social care - for adults and children - in the public, private and voluntary

sectors • Publish annual reports to Parliament on the performance of social care and on the

state of the social care market • Inspect and assess ‘Value for Money’ of council social services • Hold performance statistics on social care • Publish the ‘star ratings’ for council social services • Register and inspect services against national standards • Host the Children’s Rights Director role. Inspection Methods & Findings SECTION B of this report summarises key findings and evidence from this inspection. The following 4-point scale is used to indicate the extent to which standards have been met or not met by placing the assessed level alongside the phrase "Standard met?" The 4-point scale ranges from: 4 - Standard Exceeded (Commendable) 3 - Standard Met (No Shortfalls) 2 - Standard Almost Met (Minor Shortfalls) 1 - Standard Not Met (Major Shortfalls) 'O' or blank in the 'Standard met?' box denotes standard not assessed on this occasion. '9' in the 'Standard met?' box denotes standard not applicable. 'X' is used where a percentage value or numerical value is not applicable.

Sunbeam Fostering Agency Page 1

FOSTERING SERVICE INFORMATION

Local Authority Fostering Service? NO

Name of Authority

Address

Local Authority Manager

Tel No:

Fax No:

Address

Email Address

Registered Fostering Agency (IFA)

YES

Name of Agency Sunbeam Fostering Agency

Tel No 020 8799 0930

Fax No 0208 8810 7008

Address Sheraton Business Centre, 33-34 Wadsworth Road, Perivale, Middlesex, UB6 7JB Email Address

[email protected]

Registered Number of IFA

G100000268

Name of Registered Provider Sunbeam Fostering Agency Name of Registered Manager (if applicable) Mr Muhammad Haneef Date of first registration 5th August 2003

Date of latest registration certificate 5th August 2003

Registration Conditions Apply ? NO

Date of last inspection 04/02/04


Date of Inspection Visit 12th, 14th, 15th & 16th February 2005 ID Code

Time of Inspection Visit 10:00 am

Name of Inspector 1 Mrs Clare Henderson Roe 074866

Name of Inspector 2 Ms Paula Eaton Name of Lay Assessor (if applicable) Lay assessors are members of the public independent of the CSCI. They accompany inspectors on some inspections and bring a different perspective to the inspection process. Not present Name of Specialist (e.g. Interpreter/Signer) (if applicable) Not used Name of Establishment Representative at the time of inspection Mr Muhammad Haneef, Registered Manager


CONTENTS

Introduction to Report and Inspection Inspection visits Description of Fostering Service

Part A: Summary of Inspection Findings

Reports and Notifications to the Local Authority and Secretary of State Implementation of Statutory Requirements from last Inspection Statutory Requirements from this Inspection Good Practice Recommendations from this Inspection

Part B: Inspection Methods & Findings (National Minimum Standards For Fostering Services) 1. Statement of purpose 2. Fitness to carry on or manage a fostering service 3. Management of the fostering service 4. Securing and promoting welfare 5. Recruiting, checking, managing, supporting and training staff and foster

carers 6. Records 7. Fitness of premises 8. Financial requirements 9. Fostering panels 10. Short-term breaks 11. Family and friend carers

Part C: Lay Assessor’s Summary (where applicable)

Part D: Provider's Response

D.1. Provider’s comments D.2. Action Plan D.3. Provider’s agreement


INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION Independent and local authority fostering services which fall within the jurisdiction of the Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) are subject to inspection, to establish if the service is meeting the National Minimum Standards for Fostering Services and the requirements of the Care Standards Act 2000, the Fostering Services Regulations 2002 and the Children Act 1989 as amended. This document summarises the inspection findings of the CSCI in respect of Sunbeam Fostering Agency. The inspection findings relate to the National Minimum Standards for Fostering Services published by the Secretary of State under sections 23 and 49 of the Care Standards Act 2000, for independent and local authority fostering services respectively. The Fostering Services Regulations 2002 are secondary legislation, with which a service provider must comply. Service providers are expected to comply fully with the National Minimum Standards. The National Minimum standards will form the basis for judgements by the CSCI in relation to independent fostering agencies regarding registration, the imposition and variation of registration conditions and any enforcement action, and in relation to local authority fostering services regarding notices to the local authority and reports to the Secretary of State under section 47 of the Care Standards Act 2000. The report follows the format of the National Minimum Standards and the numbering shown in the report corresponds to that of the standards. The report will show the following:

• Inspection methods used • Key findings and evidence • Overall ratings in relation to the standards • Compliance with the Regulations • Notifications to the Local Authority and Reports to the Secretary of State • Required actions on the part of the provider • Recommended good practice • Summary of the findings • Report of the Lay Assessor (where relevant) • Providers response and proposed action plan to address findings

This report is a public document.

INSPECTION VISITS Inspections will be undertaken in line with the agreed regulatory framework with additional visits as required. This is in accordance with the provisions of the Care Standards Act 2000. The following inspection methods have been used in the production of this report. The report represents the inspector's findings from the evidence found at the specified inspection dates.


BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SERVICES PROVIDED. Sunbeam Fostering Agency is an established independent fostering agency that provides a range of short term, intermediate and long-term placements to meet a variety of needs. The Fostering Service’s statement of purpose specifies that services provided include emergency placements, bridging placements, long-term placements, assessment placements and parent and child placements. Sunbeam Fostering Agency relocated to bigger premises in August 2004, still in Perivale. The new premises are spacious, comprising of an open plan administration office plus a conference room, a training room and a contact/therapy/support group room on the ground floor, and an open plan social workers office plus separate individual offices for the managers on the first floor. Staff members include one Managing Director, two Directors of Resources, one Fostering Director, one Child Care & Finance Director, one Operations Manager, two Practice Managers, six Social Workers, six Trainee Social Workers, one Training & Leaving Care Co-ordinator, one Support Worker and two Office Administrators. The Fostering Service has access to independent Social Workers and four Professional Advisers.


PART A SUMMARY OF INSPECTION FINDINGS Inspector’s Summary

(This is an overview of the inspector’s findings, which includes good practice, quality issues, areas to be addressed or developed and any other concerns.) This was a very positive inspection. All the standards were assessed apart from one, which does not apply to the Fostering Service, and all assessed were met. The Fostering Service continues to be run in accordance with the National Minimum Standards for Fostering Services and the Fostering Services Regulations 2002, with all relevant legislation in respect of the Fostering Service having been studied and understood. Robust policies and procedures are in place, and the Fostering Service ensures that the foster carers receive a copy of the Foster Carers Handbook prior to fostering and also that any updates in line with current legislation are forwarded with clear instructions to replace the existing document with the new one. Staff spoken with expressed their satisfaction working for the Fostering Service and said that they are well supported by their managers. Since the last inspection an identified ‘middle management’ team is in place and in addition the Fostering Service has moved to new premises, which are more spacious with the offices on two floors. The Registered Manager said that time would be taken to ensure that everyone was happy and clear with the lines of communication to be followed, to retain good and effective interaction, in light of the changes in the management structure. Foster carers spoken with said that they were well supported by the supervising social workers and were confident of 24 hour advice and assistance from the Fostering Service. The foster carers spoken with clearly understood their roles and responsibilities and there was a good atmosphere in the houses visited. The looked after children/young persons spoken with had been provided with copies of the Sunbeam Children’s Handbook. Positive feedback was received about the Fostering Service from the questionnaires sent out to a sample of the foster carers and children/young persons.


Reports and Notifications to the Local Authority and Secretary

of State (Local Authority Fostering Services Only) The following statutory Reports or Notifications are to be made under the Care Standards Act as a result of the findings of this inspection:

Report to the Secretary of State under section 47(3) of the Care Standards Act 2000 that the Commission considers the Local Authority's fostering service satisfies the regulatory requirements:

Notice to the Local Authority under section 47(5) of the Care Standards Act 2000 of failure(s) to satisfy regulatory requirements in their fostering service which are not substantial, and specifying the action the Commission considers the Authority should take to remedy the failure(s), informing the Secretary of State of that Notice:

Report to the Secretary of State under section 47(4)(a) of the Care Standards Act of a failure by a Local Authority fostering service to satisfy regulatory requirements which is not considered substantial:

Report to the Secretary of State under section 47(1) of the Care Standards Act 2000 of substantial failure to satisfy regulatory requirements by a Local Authority fostering service:

The grounds for the above Report or Notice are:


Implementation of Statutory Requirements from Last Inspection

Requirements from last Inspection visit fully actioned? NA If No please list below

STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS Identified below are areas not addressed from the last inspection report which indicate a non-compliance with the Care Standards Act 2000 and Fostering Services Regulations 2002. No. Regulation Standard

Required actions Timescale

for action

Action is being taken by the Commission for Social Care Inspection to monitor compliance with the above requirements.


COMPLIANCE WITH CONDITIONS OF REGISTRATION (IF APPLICABLE)

(Registered Independent Fostering Agencies only) Providers and managers of registered independent fostering agencies must comply with statutory conditions of their registration. The conditions applying to this registration are listed below, with the inspector's assessment of compliance from the evidence at the time of this inspection.

Condition Compliance

Comments

Lead Inspector Clare Henderson

Roe Signature

Second Inspector Signature

Regulation Manager Angela Hunt Signature

Date 01/04/2005


STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS IDENTIFIED DURING THIS INSPECTION Action Plan: The appropriate Officer of the Local Authority or the Registered Person (as applicable) is requested to provide the Commission with an Action Plan, which indicates how requirements are to be addressed. This action plan will be made available on request to the Area Office.

STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS Identified below are areas addressed in the main body of the report which indicate non-compliance with the Care Standards Act 2000, the Children Act 1989, the Fostering Services Regulations 2002, or the National Minimum Standards for Fostering Services. The Authority or Registered Person(s) is/are required to comply within the given time scales in order to comply with the Regulatory Requirements for fostering services. No. Regulation Standard *

Requirement Timescale

for action

GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION Identified below are areas addressed in the main body of the report which relate to the National Minimum Standards and are seen as good practice issues which should be considered for implementation by the Authority or Registered Person(s). No. Refer to

Standard *

Recommendation Action

1 FS16 Staff should be clear about the lines of communication to be followed to ensure that the management structure in place is fully utilised.

* Note: You may refer to the relevant standard in the remainder of the report by omitting the 2-letter prefix e.g FS10 refers to Standard 10.


PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS The following inspection methods have been used in the production of this report Number of Inspector days spent 5 Survey of placing authorities NO Foster carer survey YES Foster children survey YES Checks with other organisations and Individuals NO • Directors of Social services NO • Child protection officer NO • Specialist advisor (s) NO • Local Foster Care Association NO Tracking Individual welfare arrangements YES • Interview with children YES • Interview with foster carers YES • Interview with agency staff YES • Contact with parents NO • Contact with supervising social workers YES • Examination of files YES Individual interview with manager YES Information from provider YES Individual interviews with key staff NO Group discussion with staff YES Interview with panel chair NO Observation of foster carer training NO Observation of foster panel YES Inspection of policy/practice documents YES Inspection of records YES Interview with individual child YES Date of Inspection 12/02/05 Time of Inspection 10.00 Duration Of Inspection (hrs) 25


The following pages summarise the key findings and evidence from this inspection, together with the CSCI assessment of the extent to which the National Minimum Standards have been met. The following scale is used to indicate the extent to which standards have been met or not met by placing the assessed level alongside the phrase "Standard met?" The scale ranges from: 4 - Standard Exceeded (Commendable) 3 - Standard Met (No Shortfalls) 2 - Standard Almost Met (Minor Shortfalls) 1 - Standard Not Met (Major Shortfalls) "0" in the "Standard met?" box denotes standard not assessed on this occasion. "9" in the "Standard met?" box denotes standard not applicable. “X” is used where a percentage value or numerical value is not applicable.


Statement of Purpose The intended outcome for the following standard is:

• There is clear statement of the aims and objectives of the fostering service and

the fostering service ensures that they meet those aims and objectives.

Standard 1 (1.1 - 1.6) There is a clear statement of the aims and objectives of the fostering service and of what facilities and services they provide. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The written Statement of Purpose in place is comprehensive and outlines the information specified in Standard 1 of the National Minimum Standards for Fostering Services and contains the relevant information as required under regulation 3(1) of the Fostering Services Regulations 2002. There is a written children’s guide (entitled Sunbeam Children’s Handbook), which has been written and compiled in a child-friendly way and has a clear complaints procedure, which includes the CSCI contact details. In addition there is a list of useful contact addresses and telephone numbers, where the children can access help and advice. The Sunbeam Children’s Handbook has been translated into three languages, Hindi, Urdu and Punjabi, and there are plans for translation into French also.


Fitness to Carry On or Manage a Fostering Service The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are: • The fostering service is provided and managed by those with the appropriate

skills and experience to do so efficiently and effectively and by those who are suitable to work with children.

Standard 2 (2.1 - 2.4) The people involved in carrying on and managing the fostering service possess the necessary business and management skills and financial expertise to manage the work efficiently and effectively and have the necessary knowledge and experience of childcare and fostering to do so in a professional manner. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Registered Manager has a Master of Arts (MA) degree in Social Work, a Post Graduate Diploma in Child Forensic Studies and a Bachelor of Arts Honours Degree in Psychology and Law. The Registered Manager said that management studies to a higher level than NVQ Level 4 in management were part of the work for the MA in Social Work. The Registered Manager exhibits good leadership skills and the Fostering Service is managed in an efficient and effective manner. The Inspector viewed the clear enhanced CRB checks for the Responsible Individual and the Registered Manager, which are to be renewed in May 2005.

Standard 3 (3.1 - 3.4) Any persons carrying on or managing the fostering service are suitable people to run a business concerned with safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The required information as set out in Schedule One of the Fostering Services Regulations 2002 is available for the Registered Individual and the Registered Manager, and the Inspector had viewed their files at previous inspections. The Inspector viewed three staff employment files, for a panel member, a trainee social worker and an administrator. These were comprehensive and contained the information required under Schedule One of the Fostering Services Regulations 2002. Criminal Record Bureau checks are renewed every three years.


Management of the Fostering Service The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are: • The fostering service is managed ethically and efficiently, delivering a good

quality foster care service and avoiding confusion and conflicts of role. Standard 4 (4.1 – 4.5) There are clear procedures for monitoring and controlling the activities of the fostering service and ensuring quality performance. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Fostering Service has three managers, those being the Managing Director (Registered Individual), Fostering Director (Registered Manager) and Child Care & Finance Director, and they share the management responsibilities of the Fostering Service. Their roles are clear, and there are comprehensive procedures for monitoring and overseeing the Fostering Service for quality assurance. The Fostering Service follows the Pan-London pre-placement contract, which applies to 33 London Boroughs. The Fostering Service had undergone the Pan-London Assessment in January 2005 and the Registered Manager reported that there were no issues identified. The contract with the Placement Authority clearly sets out exactly what services and costs are included in the payment. The Registered Manager said that there is liaison regarding the contracts between the Managing Director of the Fostering Service and the Commissioning Managers for Social Services. Foster carers receive payment on a monthly basis. The Child Care & Financial Director is responsible for administering payments to foster carers and the foster carers spoken with said that they receive the payments promptly. There is a clear and comprehensive Code of Practice on Conflicts of Interest and a copy of this is included in the Foster Carer’s Handbook. The Fostering Service has prospectus documentation for prospective foster carers and also for the Local Authorities. The Fostering Service has received a total of 7 formal complaints in the last 12 months. Number of statutory notifications made to CSCI in last 12 months: Death of a child placed with foster parents. 0 Referral to Secretary of State of a person working for the service as unsuitable to work with children. 0

Serious illness or accident of a child. 15 Outbreak of serious infectious disease at a foster home. 1 Actual or suspected involvement of a child in prostitution. 0 Serious incident relating to a foster child involving calling the police to a foster home. 34

Serious complaint about a foster parent. 7 Initiation of child protection enquiry involving a child. 8 Number of complaints made to CSCI about the agency in the past 12 months: 0 Number of the above complaints which were substantiated: 0


Standard 5 (5.1 - 5.4) The fostering service is managed effectively and efficiently. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Registered Manager is responsible for Sunbeam Fostering Service only and stated that his job description is clear and sets out his duties and responsibilities. Staff have comprehensive job descriptions and there are agreements in place outlining their roles and responsibilities. The Inspector had three group discussions with staff and all those spoken with said that they had job satisfaction and were clear on the employment and working policies and procedures followed by the Fostering Service. The Child Care Manager is responsible for deputising as the person in charge in the absence of the Registered Manager.


Securing and Promoting Welfare The intended outcome for the following set of standards is: • The fostering service promotes and safeguards the child/young person's physical,

mental and emotional welfare.

Standard 6 (6.1 - 6.9) The fostering service makes available foster carers who provide a safe, healthy and nurturing environment. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 As part of the inspection process, Inspectors visited the homes of four foster carers. The accommodation visited was homely, appropriately furnished and clean and there were no signs of immediate hazards. Some of the children had their own bedrooms and siblings shared a bedroom. As part of the assessment of prospective foster carers, home visits take place and each home is inspected in respect of health and safety issues. Clear written guidelines on Health and Safety issues are contained in the Foster Carer’s Handbook. Records examined included four foster carers files. It was clear from the files viewed that each foster carer receives training prior to being approved as a foster carer and also on an ongoing basis.

Standard 7 (7.1 - 7.7) The fostering service ensures that children and young people, and their families, are provided with foster care services which value diversity and promote equality. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 It was clear from the comprehensive assessment process for prospective foster carers, group discussions with staff, discussions with foster carers and records examined, that the Fostering Service ensures that they provide a service that values and respects diversity and promotes equality. There are policies in place for employment and anti-discriminatory practice. Discussion and training on equal opportunities and anti-discriminatory practice is included in pre and post approval training of foster carers. The Fostering Service staff, foster carers and Fostering Panel members are drawn from a wide range of differing ethnic, religious, cultural and linguistic backgrounds. It was clear from discussion with the Registered Manager and staff that a child/young person’s ethnic origin, cultural background and religion are important factors in the matching process. The Fostering Service does cater for children/young persons with complex needs and the Registered Manager said that placements are fully planned and support provided by the supervising social worker with visits every 1-2 weeks in the initial stages, reducing to four weekly, with the option of more frequent visits as required. The Fostering Service policies and procedures are updated in line with any changes in legislation.


Standard 8 (8.1 - 8.7) Local authority fostering services, and voluntary agencies placing children in their own right, ensure that each child or young person placed in foster care is carefully matched with a carer capable of meeting her/his assessed needs. For agencies providing foster carers to local authorities, those agencies ensure that they offer carers only if they represent appropriate matches for a child for whom a local authority is seeking a carer. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 It was clear from speaking to staff and also from the deliberations of the Foster Panel that a robust matching process is followed for all placements. Staff spoken with said that where a transracial placement is necessary, the manner in which the child/young person’s needs are to be met is discussed with the foster carer and an action plan is drawn up and agreed. Staff spoken with said that in cases where they are unable to make a full match, then consideration is given to placing the children/young persons geographically near those from similar backgrounds, or with foster carers with previous experience of caring for children/young persons from similar backgrounds. The provision of an appropriate diet is also discussed with the foster carers, and training in diversity issues is available. In addition, contact is made with organisations such as the Rwandan Social and Cultural Organisation, the Albanian Social, Educational and Cultural Organisation, the Afghani Cultural Association and other relevant groups in order to provide support to the child/young person. Contact can also be made with the relevant nation’s Embassy for input. Emphasis is put on making a linguistic match wherever possible, so that communication is not a barrier. Information titled ‘children from different cultures and religions’ is included in the Foster Carer’s Handbook. Where possible an introduction between the child/young person and the foster carer would be arranged, but this is not often possible due to the often swift need for placement. Any emergency placements, which are not fully matched, are reviewed as a matter of priority. In one instance where a linguistic match was not possible, the supervising social worker speaks the same language as the children/young persons, and has frequent contact arrangements in place to assist with the communication processes. The Fostering Service records information in respect of ethnicity, culture, religion and gender.

Standard 9 (9.1 - 9.8) The fostering service protects each child or young person from all forms of abuse, neglect, exploitation and deprivation. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Fostering Service has clear policies and procedures for the management of and procedures to be followed in the event of any allegation of abuse or neglect. The Fostering Manager is the nominated person responsible for child protection and for liaison with the Social Services department. There is a behaviour management policy in place. Part 1 of this procedure outlines acceptable and unacceptable responses to difficult or dangerous behaviour and Part 2 outlines managing challenging behaviour, preparing to deal with an aggressive incident and the action to be taken. The term ‘corporal punishment’ is clearly explained in the Foster Carer's Handbook and the Foster Care Agreement signed between the Fostering Service and the foster carer clearly states that no corporal punishment is to be used. The need to report any concerns is explained in a child-friendly manner in the Children’s Handbook and useful telephone numbers to include agencies involved with child protection are included therein. Training programmes are available to foster carers in relevant topics to include safe caring, child protection, managing difficult behaviours and care of abused children. Policies and procedures for bullying and missing children are also in place and contained in the Foster Carer's Handbook. The Registered Manager said that the issue of bullying is discussed with the child/young person in their own language to ensure


that they are clear about what is and is not acceptable behaviour. The Inspector attended the children/young persons support group, and bullying was one of the topics for discussion that day, and it was clear that discussion around bullying is encouraged. The CSCI has received notifications of any child protection issues and the Fostering Service records evidenced that they had followed correct procedures and maintained appropriate records. Percentage of foster children placed who report never or hardly ever being bullied: 100 %

Standard 10 (10.1 - 10.9) The fostering service makes sure that each child or young person in foster care is encouraged to maintain and develop family contacts and friendships as set out in her/his care plan and/or foster placement agreement. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Arrangements for family contact is included as part of the Foster Care Agreement with the Fostering Service. Clear information regarding contact with the birth family is contained in the Foster Carer's Handbook and the Sunbeam Children’s Handbook. The Registered Manager said that contact arrangements are agreed at the placement planning meeting (which takes place within one week of placement) and are documented in the child/young person’s care plan and that the supervising social worker checks that the care plan is adhered to. At the child care reviews family contact is discussed and reviewed to ensure appropriate contact is maintained. The Fostering Service’s staff ensure that any transport or supervision needs are met. Supervised contact with the birth family may be arranged at the foster home or at a neutral venue, and the Fostering Service offices now offer a venue for family contact. The social worker, an independent contact supervisor or the foster parent may carry out supervision. The Fostering Service has developed an ‘Information For Parents’ Handbook which can be given to the birth parents and which is very informative about the Fostering Service and services it provides. It also clearly explains the parents’ input in the review process for the child/young person, and how contact arrangements are agreed. Training sessions on facilitating and supervising contact are arranged for foster carers and Fostering Service staff to attend and the importance of contact is reinforced.

Standard 11 (11.1 - 11.5) The fostering service ensures that children's opinions, and those of their families and others significant to the child, are sought over all issues that are likely to affect their daily life and their future. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Foster children group meetings have been established and there was evidence of a list of areas young people wished to discuss. Information regarding contacting the CSCI is contained in the complaints procedure, plus contact details for other useful organisations, are contained in the Sunbeam Children’s Handbook. The Fostering Service runs a course on ‘listening and communicating with children’. Also, children are placed with carers who speak their language wherever possible, and where necessary interpreting services are arranged in order to go through and discuss the house rules and boundaries. The children/young persons spoken with appeared well cared for and are encouraged to express their opinions. The review process includes the child/young persons birth family unless there are clear reasons not to do so.


Standard 12 (12.1 - 12.8) The fostering service ensures that it provides foster care services which help each child or young person in foster care to receive health care which meets her/his needs for physical, emotional and social development, together with information and training appropriate to her/his age and understanding to enable informed participation in decisions about her/his health needs. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Registered Manager said that all children/young persons undergo a ‘looked after medical’ by a designated medical practitioner, who in the majority of cases is a Consultant Paediatrician, either prior or soon after placement. This is an in depth examination, and the report provides an up to date picture of the child/young persons health status. The foster carers spoken with said that often there is little health information available at the time of the placement, but acknowledged that this is because the Fostering Service has not been given this information, and that as soon as more information is known, the foster carers are informed. The Registered Manager said that the Fostering Service is aware of the importance of ensuring that foster carers receive healthcare information and that there may be occasions when information is not initially known, but that this information is passed on as soon as it is available. Training is provided for foster carers on specific health care needs. Health issues are listed on the placement request document, completed by the child/young persons’ social worker prior to any placements being made. The information in the Foster Carer’s Handbook clearly states the responsibilities of the foster carer in relation to the health care needs of the child. It also has information on health promotion, first aid and diseases that might be encountered when providing foster care. The Sunbeam Children’s Handbook also has clear, child friendly information regarding health issues. The Fostering Service has employed a Training & Development co-ordinator and part of his remit is to set up training in first aid and health & safety, both for the Fostering Service staff and for the foster carers. The Registered Manager said that it is vital for carers to receive this training, and this area is currently being majored on. The Registered Manager said that foster carers know to register the children/young persons with a GP, dentist and optician, and ensure that they attend their routine health check and any other appointments required.

Standard 13 (13.1 - 13.8) The fostering service gives a high priority to meeting the educational needs of each child or young person in foster care and ensures that she/he is encouraged to attain her/his full potential. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Foster Carer’s Handbook and the Sunbeam staff policy and procedure documentation provides clear guidance regarding a child/young persons’ educational needs. The expectations of the foster carer in relation to the education of the child/young person are clearly stated in the Foster Care Agreement. Advice is given to foster carers regarding local education resources and liaising with the local Social Services and Education Departments in order to obtain a placement in a local school. Foster carers are expected to attend parent/teacher evenings and be involved with the development of the child/young person’s personal education plan. Where children cannot be placed in a school immediately, for example in the case of an asylum seeker with no English language skills, arrangements are made to attend educational resource centres to develop the necessary educational skills to enable them then to enter mainstream education. The Registered Manager said that the Fostering Service had identified the need for a resource for French-speaking children, and that they are actively seeking such a facility. One of the foster carer households visited had experienced some problems gaining a school place, but had persevered and been successful in making appropriate arrangements.


Standard 14 (14.1 - 14.5) The fostering service ensures that their foster care services help to develop skills, competence and knowledge necessary for adult living. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Fostering Service has a semi-independent living unit, and is negotiating a contract to allow for placements. The Registered Manager said that more units are being developed to meet this need in different areas of London. The Registered Manager said that the Fostering Service is acutely aware of the need to equip looked after young people for their adulthood living. Foster carers receive training entitled ‘Independent Living Skills and Leaving Care Act’ and there is information in the Foster Carer’s Handbook regarding preparing young people for the time when they leave care. All children/young persons have a pathway plan which clearly identifies the skills and tasks the young person needs to learn, and this is drawn up by the local authority social worker and is discussed jointly with the foster carer, social workers, the young person and the Fostering Service so that everyone is clear as to the content and can provide the necessary input to assist with the plan. The Sunbeam Children’s Handbook has a section entitled ‘At what age can I …….’ which clearly lists what the child/young person can expect or is allowed to do at certain ages. They are also encouraged and expected to be involved in household chores appropriate to their age, and budgeting is discussed. Wherever possible, the foster carers are expected to set up a bank account for the child/young person in their care, and encourage them to save a proportion of their allowances.


Recruiting, Checking, Managing, Supporting and Training Staff and Foster Carers The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

• The people who work in or for the fostering service are suitable to work with

children and young people and they are managed, trained and supported in such a way as to ensure the best possible outcomes for children in foster care. The number of staff and carers and their range of qualifications and experience are sufficient to achieve the purposes and functions of the organisation.

Standard 15 (15.1 - 15.8) Any people working in or for the fostering service are suitable people to work with children and young people and to safeguard and promote their welfare. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Fostering Service has a robust recruitment policy and carries out all the required pre-employment checks, both for permanent and for freelance/independent staff. Staff spoken with were clear about the recruitment processes followed and about their roles and responsibilities. A total of three staff files were examined as part of this inspection. They were clearly organised, comprehensive and contained the matters specified in paragraphs 1 to 6 of Schedule 1 of the Fostering Services Regulation 2002. Social worker staff spoken with said that their induction was thorough and included studying relevant legislation and comprehensive training. The Fostering Service has employed staff from abroad in order to broaden the skill mix and provide more staff who have first hand experience of the racial, religious, cultural and linguistic needs of the children/young people being fostered. An independent qualified social worker carries out the assessment and presentation to panel for approval of prospective foster carers, and the Registered Manager said that this practice enhances the assessment process. The Registered Manager stated that for back-up carers, CRB checks have been carried out and in addition full checks to include NSPCC and Social Services are now being completed as a matter of good practice. The Registered Manager said that educationalists, psychologists and therapists are freelance and usually employed via the NHS Child Guidance Clinic. The Fostering Service employs the services of an Employment Consultant to ensure that policies & procedures are kept up to date, advise on employment and health & safety issues in line with current legislation, plus would deal with any employment and legal issues. Total number of staff of the agency: 24 Number of staff who have left the

agency in the past 12 months: 4

Standard 16 (16.1 - 16.16) Staff are organised and managed in a way that delivers an efficient and effective foster care service. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Three group discussion sessions took place with staff, for the social work team, the middle management team and the administrative staff respectively. There is a defined management structure in the Fostering Service, with clear lines of accountability. Since the last inspection, the ‘middle management’ tier has developed and the Inspector recommended that discussion take place to promote clarity of lines of communication so that the staff structure in place is fully utilised. Staff said that they receive regular supervision, currently


carried out by each individuals’ manager. It was clear from discussions that staff felt well supported by the Fostering Service’s management teams and that the managers are all very approachable and accessible to provide advice and support at any time. The Fostering Service has foster carers covering a wide geographical area, and at the time of inspection a time management study was being undertaken to identify any areas where review is necessary. There is access to the information and advice necessary to provide a full service for children and young people, including access to professional medical and legal advisers.

Standard 17 (17.1 - 17.7) The fostering service has an adequate number of sufficiently experienced and qualified staff and recruits a range of carers to meet the needs of children and young people for whom it aims to provide a service. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The staffing consists of a Managing Director (Responsible Individual), a Fostering Director, (Registered Manager), a Child Care & Finance Director, an Operations Manager, two Practice Managers, six Social Workers, six Trainee Social Workers, one Training & Leaving Care Co-ordinator, one Support Worker and two Office Administrators. In addition, the Fostering Service accesses freelance social workers for the purpose of fostering assessments and placement matching. There is a robust, clearly set out recruitment, assessment and approval process for foster carers which defines the task to be undertaken, the recruitment process, the standards to be applied in the assessment and the approval process. The process clearly specifies that all assessments will be carried out by appropriately qualified and experienced social workers. The Inspector attended the Panel Meeting and the Panel thoroughly discuss and review each application for approval, to include the age range and number of children that each foster carer is considered suitable to care for. The Fostering Service recruits its own staff to replace any leavers and there is a low turn over of staff. Staff training is provided and encouraged. The Registered Manager said that the Fostering Service funds staff training such as social work degrees, studying for Honours or Masters degrees and the ethos of the Fostering Service is that this is done for the benefit of social work as a whole.

Standard 18 (18.1 - 18.7) The fostering service is a fair and competent employer, with sound employment practices and good support for its staff and carers. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Fostering Service has robust employment practices for Fostering Service staff and foster carers. The ‘Out of Hours’ management information is clearly stated in the Foster Carer's Handbook and the Registered Manager said that reminder letters are also sent out. The foster carers spoken with and surveyed were satisfied with the support they received from the Fostering Service. There is a 24-hour on call system in place and the foster carers said that there was always someone to speak with if they have any concerns. The staff spoken with said that the duty system had been reviewed and now two social workers are on duty each day and this has improved the system in place. The health and safety policy is clear and is contained in the Foster Carer's Handbook, plus copies of the policy and procedure documentation is available at the Fostering Service offices. The Whistle Blowing policy had been updated following the last inspection and was comprehensive. Policies and procedures are updated in line with changes in legislation and copies sent out to the foster carers. The foster carers spoken with said that they do receive regular updates to the Foster Carers Handbook and that the information contained therein is very comprehensive. A current certificate of employers’ liability insurance was on display.


Standard 19 (19.1 - 19.7) There is a good quality training programme to enhance individual skills and to keep staff up-to-date with professional and legal developments. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Fostering Service has a comprehensive ongoing training programme. Due to the wide geographical area in which the foster carers live, the Fostering Service now has training and support groups arranged across three different venues to accommodate this. The foster carers spoken with were very positive about the training provided by the Fostering Service. The Fostering Service social worker staff spoken with said that they receive a comprehensive 4-5 week induction programme and attend introductory visits with experienced staff to foster carers’ homes. They also attend a panel meeting, and the ‘skills to foster’ training course. Staff said that they receive ongoing supervision and training. The administrative staff spoken with said that they had also received a good induction to include the reading of all policies and procedures and staff/child handbooks and also relevant legislation. They had also shadowed an experienced member of staff for two weeks and do receive ongoing supervision and support. The foster carers spoken with said that they receive regular correspondence from the Fostering Service with updates of policies and procedures, information regarding training and support groups and that they are kept well informed of any events taking place. The Registered Manager said that the Fostering Service seeks feedback from the children/young people, the foster carers, the children’s social workers and guardians regarding the service they receive from the Fostering Service and their staff, and there was evidence of this in the files viewed. The Registered Manager said that the Fostering Service is involved with youth care and fostering training at International level. The training programme is reviewed to meet any newly identified needs of foster carers and staff, and a Training Co-ordinator has been employed since the last inspection to expand this area. The Fostering Service has been planning for the introduction of NVQ training in childcare for foster carers, and the Registered Manager said that this should be finalised in the next few months, with potential assessors and verifiers in place.

Standard 20 (20.1 - 20.5) All staff are properly accountable and supported. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Registered Manager said that all Fostering Service staff are issued with a job description and a contract, and staff spoken to verified this. New staff receive supervision initially every 2 weeks and then monthly. This is in addition to informal consultation that can take place at any point when an issue needing discussion arises. The staff spoken with were very clear regarding supervision and said that they were well supported by the managers. Staff appraisals take place a minimum of once annually. Staff meetings are held every two weeks and there are monthly management meetings. The Registered Manager said that small group and one to one working is arranged where specific training needs are identified, for example, recording of information.


Standard 21 (21.1 - 21.6) The fostering service has a clear strategy for working with and supporting carers. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Skills to Foster training is a 3-day course, attended by all prospective foster carers and new social work staff. The Registered Manager said that some of the foster carers’ older children has attended ‘safe caring’ training. Foster carer and children/young persons support groups have been set up in three areas with two members of staff facilitating the groups. Annual reviews of foster carers take place and are presented to the fostering panel, with the foster carers attending the review panel in person for year one and three reviews. Any significant concerns will also be taken to the fostering panel for discussion, or the annual review may be brought forward. Foster carers spoken with said that they are well supported by the Fostering Service and that there is someone on call via telephone 24 hours a day. The Foster Carer's Handbook is comprehensive and updated information is sent out to the foster carers. The supervising social worker writes a 6 weekly report and a copy of this is forwarded to the child’s social worker and contact between the two social workers is made whenever necessary. Evidence of this was seen in the files viewed. The Registered Manager said that the Fostering Service is planning towards the foster carers completing a 4 weekly report on the children/young persons in their care. The format and guidance for this have been developed and the Registered Manager said that the Fostering Service would provide support to the foster carers. The roles of the two social workers, those being the supervising social worker and the child/young persons’ social worker, are clearly explained in the Foster Carer's Handbook. It was clear that problems had been experienced by foster carers when trying to contact the children’s’ social worker, who is employed by Social Services, and that they did not feel fully supported in this area.

Standard 22 (22.1 - 22.10) The fostering service is a managed one that provides supervision for foster carers and helps them to develop their skills. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Foster Care Agreement clearly lays out the expectations from the carer and also what the Fostering Service will provide. The Foster Carer's Handbook is comprehensive and clear and updates are sent to the foster carers whenever documentation is updated or new information is received. The Registered Manager said that the Foster Carers Agreement documentation was due for updating in respect of foster carers who wish to move from one Fostering Service to another. He said that the Agreement would incorporate the protocol issued by the Fostering Network, so that the process is clear. The Inspector discussed various elements of support and supervision with the social work team and with the foster carers. The foster carers receive supervision a minimum of 4 weekly and often more frequently. This covers foster carers training needs, placement progress, any health or education issues, leisure activities, contact arrangements and any transcultural or transracial issues. An action plan is then drawn up and a date made for the next supervision session. The Supervising Social Worker is also in weekly telephone contact with the foster carers, and can be contacted via their mobile phone or the foster carer can access the out of hours 24 hour service if necessary. The supervising social workers said that there is a clear definition between supervision and support for the foster carers. Unannounced visits take place a minimum of once annually. Documentary evidence to support these statements was seen in the files viewed. Foster carers spoken with said that they receive a good level of support from the Fostering Service. Monthly payments are received promptly. The Fostering Service provides foster carers with membership of the Fostering Network and also subscribes to the Foster Care


Insurance Scheme on behalf of foster carers. A copy of the Fostering Service complaints procedure is contained in the Foster Carer's Handbook, and is freely available to staff. Comprehensive policies and procedures for dealing with allegations of abuse are also in the Foster Carer's Handbook. Clear records are kept of any child protection investigations and support is given to the foster carers.

Standard 23 (23.1 - 23.9) The fostering service ensures that foster carers are trained in the skills required to provide high quality care and meet the needs of each child/young person placed in their care. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 All prospective foster carers must attend the three day ‘Skills to Foster’ training course which is comprehensive and gives them a wide range of information in relation to fostering. The annual training programme for 2005 was viewed and was comprehensive. Training records for 2004 training were viewed and evidenced the fact that most training takes place at the weekend, with occasional weekday training. On discussion with foster carers, it was clear that no particular day is ideal for everyone and the need for a variety of dates exists. The training now takes part in three locations to allow foster carers living in different areas to attend. There is an annual foster carer review at which training and development needs are documented and a plan for the future drawn up. The need to ensure that time is given to the foster carers birth children is discussed with the supervising social worker and also the numbers of birth children are known to the foster panel when each case is presented for a recommendation of approval. The effectiveness of the training given is evaluated and feedback questionnaires are given out to foster carers to complete.


Records The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

• All appropriate records are kept and are accessible in relation to the fostering

services and the individual foster carers and foster children.

Standard 24 (24.1 - 24.8) The fostering service ensures that an up-to-date, comprehensive case record is maintained for each child or young person in foster care, which details the nature and quality of care provided and contributes to an understanding of her/his life events. Relevant information from the case records is made available to the child and to anyone involved in her/his care. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Inspector viewed the foster carer and children/young persons’ registers. The children’s register does not include their address prior to and on leaving the placement in the details recorded, and the Registered Manager confirmed that this is because the Local Authority will not provide such details to the Fostering Service. All other details as requested under Schedule 2 of the Fostering Services Regulations 2002 are included. There are clear procedures for written recording requirements in the Foster Carer's Handbook and the foster carers maintain a logbook of events for each child/young person, which are stored securely. This was discussed at the foster carer visits, and the foster carers said that they find it helpful to maintain the logbook of events. Once the placement with the Fostering Service has ended, the children/young persons records are returned to Social Services. The Fostering Service provides the foster carer with information regarding the child/young person to include their legal status. Joint meetings with the supervising social worker and the child’s social worker are held in complex and long-term cases to ensure that the foster carer has all the information they require and are kept up to date. For emergency placements little information may be known at the time of placement, and as the information is forthcoming this would then be passed on to the foster carers. Training and work is done on life history recording and this is also clearly explained in the Foster Carer's Handbook. Clear records are kept by the supervising social worker of all contact made with the foster carers.

Standard 25 (25.1 - 25.13) The fostering service's administrative records contain all significant information relevant to the running of the foster care service and as required by regulations. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Separate records are kept for staff, foster carers, children and complaints. The Inspector viewed records for three staff, seven foster carers and six children/young persons. These were clear, up to date and comprehensive and all records are stored in lockable filing cabinets and the systems of storage are clear and easy to follow. The Inspector viewed the foster carer register database. In addition to the details specified in paragraph (2) of regulation 31, the Fostering Service also records foster cares ethnicity & religion, languages spoken and telephone number of foster parents. A monitoring policy in line with Schedule 7 is in place and audits are carried out. The policies and procedures for recording and access to records are clear and include data protection information. There is also a clear policy for confidentiality.


Number of current foster placements supported by the agency: 184 Number of placements made by the agency in the last 12 months: 362 Number of placements made by the agency which ended in the past 12 months: 178

Number of new foster carers approved during the last 12 months: 54 Number of foster carers who left the agency during the last 12 months: 14 Current weekly payments to foster parents: Minimum £ 315 Maximum £ 500


Fitness of Premises for use as Fostering Service The intended outcome for the following standard is:

• The premises used as offices by the fostering service are suitable for the purpose.

Standard 26 (26.1 - 26.5) Premises used as offices by the fostering service are appropriate for the purpose. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Fostering Service relocated to larger premises in August 2005, still in Perivale. On the ground floor there is an open plan administrators office, plus a training room and a conference room, which is used for the panel meetings. There is also another room used for contact/therapy/support groups. On the first floor there is an open plan office for the social workers, plus a room for the Operations Manager and a room for the Practice Managers. At the time of inspection there was one office to be put in use. There is then a separate section on the first floor with the offices for the Managing Director, Fostering Manager and Child Care & Finance Director. The premises are spacious and accessible to persons with physical disabilities. There are clear health and safety policies and procedures. The premises were well furnished and clean. The Registered Manager said that the Information Technology equipment has been upgraded following the move and the computers are all password protected. An Information Technology Consultant is employed and they carry out a monthly check of all the IT systems to keep them up to date. All required office equipment was in place. All records are stored in lockable filing cabinets and cupboards. The premises are insured and there are adequate security arrangements in place. The premises also have a fire alarm system in place.


Financial Requirements The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

• The agency fostering services are financially viable and appropriate and timely

payments are made to foster carers.

Standard 27 (27.1 - 27.3) The agency ensures it is financially viable at all times and has sufficient financial resources to fulfil its obligations. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Inspector viewed the abbreviated accounts for year ending March 2004, as prepared by the appointed Independent Auditors, which showed that the Fostering Service is financially viable. This, in conjunction with the Business Plan for 2002-2006, gave a clear picture of the financial situation of the Fostering Service and the projected income, investment and expenditure. There are comprehensive financial procedures in place.

Standard 28 (28.1 - 28.7) The financial processes/systems of the agency are properly operated and maintained in accordance with sound and appropriate accounting standards and practice. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Fostering Service has a Business Plan for 2002-2006, last revised in January 2005. It is clear from this document that the Fostering Service is committed to investing in its staff and foster carers by the provision of funding for ongoing training and the setting up of NVQ training in childcare. The Fostering Service has private healthcare and a pension scheme for all Fostering Service staff. The Registered Manager said that the Fostering Service was going through a stabilizing period, prior to any further expansion, in order to reflect and consolidate all the systems in place. The Fostering Service was awarded the ‘Investors in People’ Award in March 2004.

Standard 29 (29.1 - 29.2) Each foster carer receives an allowance and agreed expenses, which cover the full cost of caring for each child or young person placed with him or her. Payments are made promptly and at the agreed time. Allowances and fees are reviewed annually. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Fostering Service has clear financial procedures in place. The policies and procedures for payments to foster carers are clear and the carers are informed of any changes, the most recent being in February 2005, when a letter was sent to all foster carers. The Foster Carer's Handbook has a section regarding all money matters and this is comprehensive and deals with all aspects of finance likely to be encountered by the foster carer. Foster carers spoken with said that they were clear on the financial allowances for the children/young persons. They also stated that they receive their payments promptly.


Fostering Panels The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

• Fostering panels are organised efficiently and effectively so as to ensure that

good quality decisions are made about the approval of foster carers, in line with the overriding objective to promote and safeguard the welfare of children in foster care.

Standard 30 (30.1 - 30.9) Fostering panels have clear written policies and procedures, which are implemented in practice, about the handling of their functions. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Inspector observed the fostering panel from 10.45am -1.30pm, during which time the panel conducted an annual review, two applications for approval, and a change of approval. There were eight panel members present, plus the panel vice chair and a minute taker. The composition of the fostering panel complies with regulation 24 of the Fostering Services Regulations 2002 and includes members from education, healthcare and childcare backgrounds. The panel chair was on leave at the time of inspection. The panel vice-chair is the Operations Manager for the Fostering Service and chaired the panel meeting in a thorough manner. It was clear that the panel members had read the assessment information thoroughly, and prior to each case being considered, the panel had a comprehensive discussion and the panel vice-chair listed all the questions to be asked of the assessing social worker and the prospective foster carer. Prior to each presentation the members of the foster panel introduced themselves to the foster carer and social worker. The foster carers for review said that they were well supported by the Fostering Service and the panel looked at ways of assisting the foster carers with any issues raised, such as transport arrangements. In each case, the panel acted in a clear, professional manner, and the processes followed were comprehensive and robust. Recommendations for approval are only made once the panel is fully satisfied that all required information has been obtained and that they are satisfied that the prospective carer meets all the criteria to become a foster carer. The Decision Maker for approvals is independent of the panel.


Short-Term Breaks The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

• When foster care is provided as a short-term break for a child, the arrangement

recognises that the parents remain the main carers for the child.

Standard 31 (31.1 - 31.2) Where a fostering service provides short-term breaks for children in foster care, they have policies and procedures, implemented in practice, to meet the particular needs of children receiving short-term breaks. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Short-term breaks are provided for children in foster care by the agency. The Manager reported that this occurs in instances whereby a carer is provided respite in order to take a holiday break, at which time the foster child is placed with another foster carer. The only other situations whereby short-term placements are offered are in emergency cases, where it is recognised that the parents remain the main carers for the child. There have been no changes to this standard since the last inspection.


Family and Friends as Carers The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

• Local authority fostering services' policies and procedures for assessing,

approving, supporting and training foster carers recognise the particular contribution that can be made by and the particular needs of family and friends as carers.

Standard 32 (32.1 - 32.4) These standards are all relevant to carers who are family and friends of the child, but there is recognition of the particular relationship and position of family and friend carers. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 9 This Standard is not applicable to this fostering service.


PART C LAY ASSESSOR’S SUMMARY (where applicable)

A lay assessor was not present at this inspection.

Lay Assessor Signature

Date


PART D PROVIDER’S RESPONSE D.1 Registered Person’s or Responsible Local Authority Manager’s

comments/confirmation relating to the content and accuracy of the report for the above inspection.

We would welcome comments on the content of this report relating to the Inspection conducted on 12th, 14th, 15th and 16th February 2005 and any factual inaccuracies:

Please limit your comments to one side of A4 if possible We are working on the best way to include provider responses in published reports. In the meantime, responses received are available on request.


Action taken by the CSCI in response to the provider’s comments:

Amendments to the report were necessary YES

Comments were received from the provider YES

Provider comments/factual amendments were incorporated into the final inspection report YES

Provider comments are available on file at the Area Office but have not been incorporated into the final inspection report. The inspector believes the report to be factually accurate

Note: In instances where there is a major difference of view between the Inspector and the Registered Provider responsible Local Authority fostering service Manager both views will be made available on request to the Area Office.

D.2 Please provide the Commission with a written Action Plan by , which indicates how statutory requirements and recommendations are to be addressed and stating a clear timescale for completion. This will be kept on file and made available on request.

Status of the Provider’s Action Plan at time of publication of the final inspection report:

Action plan was required YES

Action plan was received at the point of publication YES

Action plan covers all the statutory requirements in a timely fashion

Action plan did not cover all the statutory requirements and required further discussion

Provider has declined to provide an action plan N/A

Other: <enter details here> N/A

Public reports It should be noted that all CSCI inspection reports are public documents. Reports on children’s homes are only obtainable on personal application to CSCI offices.


D.3 PROVIDER’S AGREEMENT

Registered Person’s or responsible Local Authority Manager’s statement of agreement/comments: Please complete the relevant section that applies.

D.3.1 I Mr Karamjit Singh Dhull of Sunbeam Fostering Agency confirm that the

contents of this report are a fair and accurate representation of the facts relating to the inspection conducted on the above dates and that I agree with the statutory requirements made and will seek to comply with these.

Print Name Karamjit Dhull

Signature Karamjit Dhull (Signed)

Designation Managing Director

Date 21/4/05 Or

D.3.2 I Mr Karamjit Singh Dhull of Sunbeam Fostering Agency am unable to

confirm that the contents of this report are a fair and accurate representation of the facts relating to the inspection conducted on the above dates for the following reasons:

Print Name

Signature

Designation

Date Note: In instance where there is a profound difference of view between the Inspector and the Registered Provider both views will be reported. Please attach any extra pages, as applicable.

Sunbeam Fostering Agency / 12th, 14th, 15th &

16th February 2005

Commission for Social Care Inspection

33 Greycoat Street London SW1P 2QF Telephone: 020 7979 2000 Fax: 020 7979 2111 National Enquiry Line: 0845 015 0120 www.csci.org.uk S0000035026.V199189.R01

© This report may only be used in its entirety. Extracts may not be used or reproduced without the

express permission of the Commission for Social Care Inspection

The paper used in this document is supplied from a sustainable source

fostering services - ofsted

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