Consultation opens on new Transitional Foster Carer Policy

Bridgend County Borough Council is inviting all stakeholders to have their say on its new Transitional Foster Carer Policy.

The local authority has launched the consultation for stakeholders to share their views following the creation of a specialist in-house foster caring service, enabling looked after children to transition to a permanent placement.

The new policy outlines areas such as the legal and regulatory framework, the roles and responsibilities of transitional foster carers as well as social workers, and the payments, training and support for transitional carers.

The role of the transitional carer is an integral part of the ‘no wrong door model’ adopted within the local authority’s placement and provider services.

To achieve the desired outcomes, part of the approach is to ‘step down’ children from residential placements to a family living environment, which will include the implementation or continuation of the intensive support package. Integral to the scheme is the level of increased access to support services, which will continue to be offered post transition.

I would encourage all stakeholders to have their say by taking part in the consultation survey to help us shape this new policy.

The council’s Cabinet Member for Social Services and Early Help Nicole Burnett said

The consultation runs until 24 October 2021 and is available in English and Welsh. To take part, visit the survey webpage.

If you require a hard copy of the survey please email consultation@bridgend.gov.uk, call 01656 643664 or write to Communications, Marketing and Engagement, Bridgend County Borough Council, Civic Offices, Angel Street, Bridgend, CF31 4WB.

Alternative formats are also available upon request.