Children's social services would like all looked-after children and young people to have access to a computer and broadband internet in their foster placement. This is because the use of a computer and the internet are increasingly important for schoolwork. We also want children and young people to be able to use 'Viewpoint On-line' to give us feedback in preparation for their statutory reviews.
Broadband internet
A recent survey of our foster carers found that the great majority of looked-after children have access to a computer at home and those who do not are mostly under five years of age. About half of all carers have internet access, but many of these do not have broadband.
Children's social services are working to improve young people's involvement in their statutory review and the introduction of Viewpoint On-line is an important part of this. Social services are keen that all carers should have broadband internet because Viewpoint will not run on slower internet systems.
In 2005 we began to provide for all our carers to get access to broadband internet and to pay for the setting up and running cost of this.
Each child or young person is invited to use Viewpoint On-line to comment on their placement, social worker, education, health and other issues before their review. Their comments help their independent review manager to set the agenda for their review.
If you have any questions about computers or internet for foster carers please ring Nigel Shipley (Partnership Officer) on 01454 865939.