Recruitment Process
Information Stage
Information provided to prospective carers includes:
- information on the fostering task in Devon, outlining the roles and responsibilities, and a description of the range of duties and tasks a carer may be expected to perform
- the assessment process, based on competencies, and the timescales involved through to approval
- details on checks and references to be undertaken
- training and support
- details on payment and conditions of service
In addition to outlining the competency assessment approach, it is stressed to prospective carers that those who foster:
- make a special commitment in opening their own families and homes to children in need
- require strong motivation to acquire and develop new skills
- have to be flexible in handling a wide range of difficult / demanding behaviours and situations
- have to understand and meet a range of cultural, religious and racial needs
- have to be resilient and not give up on children when there are difficulties
- require communication skills which enable them to talk with highly distressed children and parents, as well as liaise with a range of professionals; and which enable them to participate in planning for individual children and take part in court processes
