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We have produced a list of key resources on this topic.


Allegations of abuse must always be investigated thoroughly - it is crucial that children feel they can be believed 'at the point of need.'

However, many allegations are not substantiated and some appear to be made for complex psychological reasons, ranging from mischief to a need for some sense of control over the world. In all cases, children need understanding, and foster carers need support. Read about our allegations campaign.

Both carers and fostering services can contact the Fostering Network for advice on dealing with allegations.

Membership of the Fostering Network provides free legal advice and legal expenses insurance. To find out more about this go to the members' area, or contact membership@fostering.net.

Useful links

Publications and resources from the Fostering Network

Allegations against foster carers: a report on the Fostering Network Scotland's Advice, Information and Mediation Service
Publisher: The Fostering Network
Date: 2006
Report on the Fostering Network Scotland's Advice, Information and Mediation Service.
Price: Free
Full details…
Allegations Against Foster Carers: information for foster carers
Publisher: The Fostering Network
Date: 2007
This Signpost gives information about safer caring and information for foster carers about allegations.
Code: 2062
Price: £2 members, £4 non-members
Full details…
Managing allegations and serious concerns about foster carers' practice or standards of care: a guide for fostering services
Publisher: The Fostering Network
Date: 2006
Guidance for fostering services on managing allegations and serious concerns about care standards.
Price: Free
Full details…
Model procedure for fostering service providers: appendix 1, independent support for foster carers
Publisher: The Fostering Network
Date: 2006
Appendix to 'Managing allegations and serious concerns...' for fostering services.
Price: Free
Full details…
People involved in the allegations process speak out about things that need to change
Publisher: The Fostering Network
Date: 2006
Comments from delegates at an allegations workshop (The Fostering Network 2006 annual conference).
Price: Free
Full details…
Protecting children - supporting foster carers: training and information on dealing with an allegation
Publisher: Department for Children, Schools and Families
Not available online - contains a trainers' manual, dealing with allegations booklet, DVD and CD-Rom containing training materials for printing.
Full details…
Protecting children, supporting foster carers: dealing with an allegation
Publisher: Department for Education and Skills
Date: 2006
Guidance for foster carers about allegations.
Price: Free
Full details…
Safeguarding children in foster care: a practice guide to inform local Safeguarding Children Boards in the preparation of local procedures
Publisher: The Fostering Network
Date: 2006
Guidance for Safeguarding Children Boards.
Price: Free
Full details…