Accreditation and NVQs
Our Accreditation Scheme helps us to match children’s needs to the skills and experience of foster carers. It also provides a career path for carers.
There are four levels and carers receive higher payments as they go up the levels. You do this by completing extra training and gaining experience as you go on.
Once you are approved as a foster carer you will begin fostering at level 1. Generally speaking, children assessed as needing a level 1 carer will have the most basic needs and children assessed as needing a level 4 carer will be the most demanding.
Foster carers usually find the level that suits them. You don’t have to move beyond level 1 or 2 if you don’t want to. Your supervising social worker will discuss with you what you feel is the appropriate level to aim for and they will help you draw up an action plan to achieve this. Any change to your accreditation level will be decided at your annual review.
Foster carers need a wide range of qualities and abilities. Some are gained through training. Others can only be found through experience. When we run courses we aim to have a good mix of experience among people attending so that ideas, tips and concerns can be shared.
Training is the key to making fostering more rewarding in every way. During the time you foster you will receive regular information about all the training and development opportunities open to you.
Experienced carers have the opportunity to work towards an NVQ LEVEL 3 qualification in Caring for Children and Young People.
Taking up extra training and moving up the accreditation levels means a lot more than just obtaining a better financial reward – although that is important as well.
Gaining qualifications and being a part of these training sessions will give you real help in the work you do – giving you more confidence and helping you find support from other carers. You’ll be able to share your own experiences and discover how other people manage.
Want to know more?
If you would like to know more about fostering or, if you would like to apply, please contact us.