Undertaking checks and references in fostering and adoption assessments

The assessment of prospective foster carers and adopters is amongst the most important aspects of family placement work. Undertaking checks and references is a key part of these assessments, and a core task for social workers. But which checks are mandatory, and which are advisable? Which checks are needed in each UK country? Which are likely to yield the most useful information?

This good practice guide details the range of checks routinely undertaken in England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales, in both fostering and adoption. It considers:

• what information can be gleaned from each check;
• in what circumstances various checks should be undertaken and when might they be deemed unnecessary;
• what services and agencies should consider when formulating policies in this area; and the practical steps to effectively undertake these checks.

This popular guide takes into account all recent legislative and practice changes UK-wide. These include changes to take into account GDPR and data protection legislation, particularly in terms of confidentiality with regard to references. Case studies illustrate the issues to be considered, and the guide includes a range of sample forms and checklists to help collate and analyse information.

This book will be invaluable for all those involved in undertaking checks and references, in either fostering or adoption, or kinship care, throughout the UK, and for those formulating policy and practice in this area.

Read the contents page and introduction

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