The aim of the family placement children's short breaks service is to provide high quality, safe and secure placements for disabled children.
This information is intended as a guidance and applicants should read it in conjunction with the other information provided on this site and in the information pack. If you have any queries regarding your suitability as a carer please contact us on (0113) 247 8934.
Frequently asked questions
Are there any age limits?
There is no upper age limit for applicants. Our lower limit for applications is 18.
Are criminal records and convictions checked?
Checks for criminal records and convictions are taken up with all applicants. For short breaks applicants any member of the household over the age of 16 will also be checked. If a member of the household has a conviction in the proceeding two years, a serious offence or a history of offending the application will be referred for consideration before proceeding further.
A conviction is any offence for which a person has appeared in court and been found guilty, or has received a formal caution at a police station. The court appearance could have resulted in a fine, a conditional discharge or a prison sentence.
Every year we have applications from people who have been convicted of an offence and these people still become foster carers or sitters. Certain offences against children will however automatically prevent people from continuing with their application.
If you would like to discuss any conviction in confidence with one of the scheme's social workers please ring the office where someone can advise you.
Would my health affect my application?
All applicants are expected to complete a medical questionnaire which is then sent to your GP for comment. Certain medical conditions may affect your ability to become a carer, but this would be discussed with you should the need arise.
Can smokers apply?
We are able to approve people who smoke unless they are wanting to care for children under the age of two, or for children who have respiratory problems. However, we would expect you to not smoke in the same room as a child.
What about my religious beliefs?
People from all religious backgrounds are welcome unless these beliefs are considered detrimental to the welfare of placed children.
Do I have to be married?
Carers can be single people, married or unmarried couples or people who are divorced and/or remarried.
What about my sexuality?
Applicants are accepted regardless of sexuality.
Are there rules about accommodation?
You may own your own home, rent from the local authority or privately. You must have a spare room for a placement child to sleep. Room sharing is not allowed. All applicants will be expected to meet the required standards of health and safety in the household.
Will my pets be a problem?
We are unable to accept applications from people who have a dog breed in their household identified as dangerous by current legislation. Applicants who own dogs will be expected to discuss any issues relating to the management and control of their pet. A dog assessment will be done as part of any fostering assessment.
Will I be paid?
We provide a small remuneration for each day a child stays with you.
Do I need to have experience of caring for disabled children? Although it is helpful to have some experience of disability it is not essential.
Will I receive any training?
After the initial Preparation course there are many other courses run throughout the year covering subjects such as epilepsy, first aid, child protection (Safeguarding) etc.