Statistics show government targets are
being missed.

Dragging On

Investigations into abuse allegations against foster carers are dragging on for months and years well beyond government targets, figures from a leading charity show.

Eighty percent of investigations into alleged abuse should be concluded within a month and 90% within three months.

But a study by the Fostering Network shows more than a third of cases are taking more than three months, with 9% taking more than a year.

And while the investigations are being carried out, suspended carers can find themselves suddenly out of pocket.

Fostering Network statistics show 93% see a cut in financial support, while nearly half receive no money at all. This can be a shock for carers who rely on the money.

Mr Dowling from Kondine Support says that some local authorities are not carrying out investigations quick enough:

“Some of these cases drag on for months and months in extreme cases years. I have personal experience of a case that went on for three years and the foster carer was then completely exonerated.”

But Neil Loader from independent agency Five Rivers says councils are doing their best:

“They are sensitive; the problem is however sensitive and professional you are, you are not going to be able to allay those fears and anxieties.”

Do carers get enough support while being investigated? Read more