Initial visit
A Family Placement social worker will try to arrange to meet you within two weeks of your enquiry. This visit provides you with an opportunity to discuss your personal circumstances and you will find out more about the skills you need to become a Family Link Carer and the tasks of involved with caring for a child or young person. The Family Placement social worker will also discuss with you what you feel you can offer a child or young person
The visit will also enable the social worker to explain the application, preparation and assessment process.
Will I have to undergo any special checks?
Yes. All applicants have to undergo a CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) check plus a range of other checks and references. These are important because by law we have to undertake rigorous checks to ensure the suitability of our Family Link Carers to look after vulnerable children and young people. These will be explained to you during your initial visit.
How long will it take to become a Family Link carer?
We would hope to complete your training, checks and assessment within six months. We have a duty to make sure that you can offer a safe and caring environment where children will feel welcomed, cared for and valued.
Making a complaint
If at any point you are not happy with the assessment, social worker or any aspect of the Family Link process then we ask that you contact the social worker or the fostering team manager to give them the opportunity to resolve the issue. However if you feel unable to do this or you are still not happy with the process then you have the right to complain within South Gloucestershire's complaints procedure. Please write to:
Complaints & Consumer Services Oficer
Department for Children & Young People
Fiveways
New Cheltenham Road
Kingswood
South Gloucestershire
BS15 4RR
Tel: 01454 866374