Children who live with foster families are thriving in safe, stable and loving homes, according to Ofsted.
A recent inspection of Birmingham Children’s Trust’s fostering agency, Foster Birmingham, judged the overall experiences and progress of children and young people as Good. Inspectors recognised the nurturing care provided by foster carers and Foster Birmingham’s commitment to ensuring children’s voices are heard and valued.
Ofsted found that children have strong relationships with their foster carers, with inspectors reporting that:
“Children love their foster carers and view them as their family members. They refer to them using terms of endearment such as ‘forever family’ and ‘mum and dad’. Children say that their foster carers are the ‘best thing ever’”
Ofsted also recognised the positive impact fostering is having on children’s lives, with children creating new friendships, enjoying new experiences and growing in confidence:
“Children feel safe, settled and happy living with their foster carers. Children have fun and create new friendships through a range of activities. Children enjoy experiences they have never had before, which help to build their self-esteem and confidence.”
Foster Birmingham was praised for the support and development opportunities available to carers, with Ofsted highlighting the comprehensive training offer that equips carers to meet children’s diverse needs.
Inspectors recognised the strength and stability of the Foster Birmingham workforce, noting the experience and expertise across the agency:
“The agency benefits from a stable and skilled staff team. There is a breadth of experience between social workers, managers and leaders.”
The report further highlighted the positive relationships between foster carers and the professionals who support them:
“Foster carers feel well supported and speak extremely positively about the support they receive from supervising social workers.”
James Thomas, Chief Executive of Birmingham Children’s Trust, said
“We’re proud of this Good judgement which reflects the dedication, skill and compassion of our foster carers and the Foster Birmingham team. Most importantly, the inspection team found that children are living in loving homes where they feel valued, listened to and able to thrive. Thank you to all our foster carers and staff for the positive difference you make to children’s lives.”
Councillor Kamel Hawwash, Cabinet Member for Children Young People and Families said:
“Foster carers make a huge contribution, opening their homes and hearts to children who need care, stability and belonging. This Good judgement is an important recognition of their commitment, and of our ambition that children and young people grow up in Birmingham with the support, confidence and opportunities they deserve. I’d like to encourage more people across the city to consider whether they could make a life-changing difference by fostering.”
Foster Birmingham is always keen to hear from people who may be interested in becoming foster carers.
For more information call 0121 303 7575, or enquire online.
To read the Ofsted report, click here.
