All our carers complete our Skills to Foster preparation training as part of their preparation to foster. Following approval all carers receive a comprehensive package of support and development opportunities including:
- A comprehensive induction program delivered by the supervising social worker, therapist and safeguarding Manager, to help fully equip carers for the demands and rewards of fostering.
- Assistance with completing carers Training Support and Development standards within the first 12 months of approval.
- Regular supervisory home visits by their fostering social worker.
- Low caseload of supervisory social workers to foster carers meaning support is available when needed.
- Regular clinical supervision from their allocated therapist who also works directly with the child in placement.
- Attendance at case discussion safeguarding forum which includes all professionals working with the placement and chaired by a dedicated safeguarding manager.
- Mosaic is mindful of the ever-changing needs of the children and the demands placed on foster carers. In response to this the agency has a robust on call service comprising of on call social worker, manager, support worker and respite carer. This provides us with a range of supportive options when carers find themselves in challenging situations outside of normal working hours.
- Use of Mosaic Foster Care IT infrastructure to ensure compliance under the Data Protection Act (includes iPad, Mosaic email address, secure login to database).
- Regular consultation between the agency and carers on important matters which affect carers, for example agreements, CLA reviews, Statement of Purpose revisions etc.
- A generous payment to ensure we recruit carers who can dedicate the time required to care for the child placed.
- Regular events which bring together carers and children for social events such as our regular ‘party in the park’ and Christmas parties.