The foster home can comfortably accommodate all who live there including where appropriate any suitable aids and adaptations provided and fitted by suitably trained staff when caring for a disabled child.
STANDARD 10 - Providing a suitable physical environment for the foster child
Underpinning Legislation
Regulations:
Outcome
- Children live in foster homes which provide adequate space, to a suitable standard. The child enjoys access to a range of activities which promote his or her development.
10.1
10.2
The foster home is warm, adequately furnished and decorated, is maintained to a good standard of cleanliness and hygiene and is in good order throughout. Outdoor spaces which are part of the premises are safe, secure and well maintained.
10.3
Foster carers are trained in health and safety issues and have guidelines on their health and safety responsibilities. Avoidable hazards are removed as is consistent with a family home.
10.4
Foster carers understand the service’s policy concerning safety for children in the foster home and in vehicles used to transport foster children. The service’s policy is regularly reviewed in line with the most recent guidance from relevant bodies.
10.5
The foster home is inspected annually, without appointment, by the fostering service to make sure that it continues to meet the needs of foster children.
10.6
In the foster home, each child over the age of three should have their own bedroom. If this is not possible, the sharing of a bedroom is agreed by each child’s responsible authority and each child has their own area within the bedroom. Before seeking agreement for the sharing of a bedroom, the fostering service provider takes into account any potential for bullying, any history of abuse or abusive behaviour, the wishes of the children concerned and all other pertinent facts. The decision making process and outcome of the assessment are recorded in writing where bedroom sharing is agreed.