Full time and part time fostering is a complex task that can bring many rewards.

In common with all authorities in Scotland, East Renfrewshire Council needs foster carers, in particular for sibling groups of children and for teenagers.

We can accept applications from single applicants and from married or co-habiting couples. Although we could assess same sex couples just now, we cannot place children in this family arrangement. Same sex applicants will have to decide whether they wish to proceed with an enquiry in the knowledge that they are unlikely to have a child placed with them probably until 2009.

The Adoption (Scotland) Bill 2007 was granted royal assent in January 2007 but will not come into effect until the regulations and guidance are issued. This is likely to happen towards the end of 2008 or early 2009.

The Act will remove any barriers to fostering placements with same sex couples.

Criteria

  • A single person can apply

  • A married or co-habiting different sex couple can apply

  • A same sex couple can apply but we would be unable to proceed with a placement until the new legislation comes into force

  • Applicant/s must be at least 25 years of age

  • Joint applicants must have lived together for a minimum period of 4 years prior to making an application

  • Applicants must have a spare bedroom in their home to accommodate a child.

  • Applicants must be prepared to work with birth family members and with a range of professionals, including social workers, education staff etc

  • Applicants must be able to look after children outwith school and nursery hours and during school holiday periods

  • Applicants are expected to follow a healthy lifestyle and consideration will be given during the assessment process to smoking and dietary habits. Applicants will be expected to undergo a health assessment.

  • Applicants who smoke must do so outwith the family home when caring for foster children and should not allow others to smoke within their home

  • Applicants will be expected to take up training opportunities provided, including attendance at the monthly carers’ support group

  • Applicants must never use any form of physical chastisement to discipline a child/young person

  • Applicants who wish to foster young children must be prepared to consider children aged at least 0-6 years

  • Applicants will be expected to undergo a range of checks including an enhanced Disclosure check.

  • Applicants who have been convicted of offences against children will not be assessed as prospective foster carers.

  • Applicants who wish to offer part time care to children without disabilities must be prepared to consider children and young people in the age range 5-16 years and they must be prepared to care for children at least twice per month.

  • Applicants who wish to offer part time care to children with disabilities must be able to consider children aged 5 years + and must be able to provide support at least twice per month.