Using this Manual
Scope of this chapter
ALL STAFF AND FOSTER CARERS PLEASE NOTE:
Before proceeding to the body of the manual, please read this page which explains how the manual works.
If you have any questions, please talk to your Manager or Supervising Social Worker.
This manual contains all of our key policies and procedures, listed in the Contents List.
The procedures are sub divided into several Sections e.g. Section 1: Policies, Values and Principles.
When you have read this guide, start by familiarising yourself with the Contents List and the Procedures listed under each section.
If you are unable to find a Procedure use the Search function on the left hand side of the screen or 'ctrl f' when on the Contents List.
You may also wish to consult your Manager or Supervising Social Worker.
This manual will be updated on a regular basis and a summary of the changes can be accessed via the 'Amendments' button on the Home page.
The next update for this manual will be November 2024.
If you would like to suggest a change to the procedures manual discuss your suggestion with your line manager in the first instance.
This manual contains a local resource section which can be accessed via the navigation bar. If there is a resource that you think should be added talk in the first instance to your manager.
The nominated administrator for this area will be able to access online training in the use of the area from tri.x.
This library is populated and maintained locally and not by tri.x. tri.x will not be responsible for content which is added into this area, and any concerns should be directed to the contact person with responsibility for the procedures.
The manual is accessed by readers who may find terms that they are not familiar with. Therefore, a glossary of definitions is available under the resource tab.
There is also a National Contacts resource populated with details of key national agencies and organisations likely to be relevant to procedures users.
Every effort has been taken to ensure regulatory compliance. If you discover any errors or omissions, please alert your Manager.
Key Terms
We have used the following terms and post titles:
| Supervising Social Worker | This means the allocated, suitably qualified social worker who is responsible for supervising and supporting carers. |
| Child's Social Worker | This means the allocated social worker from the Placing Authority who is responsible for managing the child's case. |
| Placing Authority | This means the Local Authority with overall responsibility for the child's care. |
| Fostering Service | This means the service provided by the fostering agency. |
| Fostering Service Manager | This means the Registered Manager of the service provided by the fostering agency. |
| Placement Plan | This is the documentation drawn up by the child's social worker before the placement wherever possible (or where this is not possible, within 5 working days of the placement) which sets out in detail the arrangements for the child's care in the foster placement. |
These procedures use the word ‘must’ where the provision is a legal requirement. The word ‘should’ is used where the provision should be complied with but is not a legal requirement, such as where it is taken from non-statutory government guidance or accepted good practice.
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Last Updated: July 24, 2024
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