Fosterline answers 40,000th enquiry

Fosterline, the confidential advice line for foster carers run by the Fostering Network, has answered its 40,000th enquiry.

The advice line, which was opened in 2005 and is funded by the Department for Education, offers impartial and confidential expert service to foster carers and others with enquiries about fostering in England.

A dedicated team provides advice on a whole range of issues including applying to become a foster carer, changes in legislation, financial matters, allegations and complaints and care plans for children. They are also able to advise on how to take the next step in dealing with any fostering issue and how to access other useful services and support. In 2011-12 the team dealt with a record 6,522 enquiries.

Yvonne Greenaway-Meade, Fosterline manager, said: “Since Fosterline opened in 2005 it has totally changed the way that foster carers can access expert and bespoke advice.

“Foster carers contact us for help on a wide range of fostering issues. Often they are at difficult times in their fostering careers, such as dealing with allegations or changes in their approval, and the support and expertise of a Fosterline adviser can make all the difference.

"The last 10,000 enquiries have been taken in just over 18 months, which is an absolutely amazing achievement. However busy we are, the team works hard to maintain the quality of our services, taking the time to listen to callers, understand their concerns and provide the advice they need.” 

Fosterline is open 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday (except bank holidays). When the service is closed or all the staff are busy, callers can leave a message and an adviser will ring them back by the end of the next working day.

To reach Fosterline, call 0800 040 7675 or email fosterline@fostering.net

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