Bolton Council is committed to delivering high quality training to Foster Carers.
To ensure this happens, Bolton continues to offer a training programme which meets the needs of our Carers.
The roles and responsibilities of Carers are described in the:
- Fostering Service National Minimum Standards 2011
- Fostering Services Regulations 2011
- Care Planning Regulations 2010
Bolton shares the importance of training for Foster Carers and expects its Foster Carers to be committed to on-going training and further development. It is vital that Foster Carers continued approval that they remain aware of their own developmental needs, as well as changes in legislation, policy and public opinion regarding the quality of care provided to all children and young people they care for.
We expect all newly-approved Foster Carers to attend the Core Skills training courses within 2 years of their approval. There are 9 core courses in total, including Paediatric First Aid. The Core Skills courses are indicated in the programme 2024/2025.
Other Carers will have the opportunity to update their knowledge every 3 years. We are also offering a number of additional courses such as:
- Introduction to Secure Base
- A five day Secure Base promoting attachment & resilience training course,
- Foetal Alcohol Syndrome
- STAND training (aimed at carers for children from the age of 10+)
as well as many other training opportunities.
Foster Carers will complete an annual Personal Development Plan as part of their annual review process. You are asked to discuss and identify your training needs through supervision with your supervising Social Worker.
We are aiming to offer training in person during the day, as well as in the evenings and online via Microsoft Teams.
First Aid is the exception, as this training can only be offered face-to-face.
You should have access to your own ME learning accounts were you can access various courses online and complete them in your time and at your own pace. Any problems with your ME learning account contact the Learning and Development Team.
The Foster Care programme is availble for registered foster carers. To get a link to the programme, please contact your supervising social worker.
