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The Fostering Network provides a free advice, information and mediation service (AIM), available to all foster carers and local authority workers across Scotland.

Download our Allegations Against Foster Carers report, published in October 2006.

Download a leaflet for the advice and mediation service (pdf).

Allegations against foster carers

The Fostering Network, led by Dr Moira Walker, was commissioned by the Scottish Government to develop a protocol which would be a national tool for ensuring the sensitive and efficient handling of allegations against foster carers, and which would be "capable of being adapted to fit local purposes".

We are currently consulting on this document and would appreciate your views on this. The consultation will close on 16 January 2009.
More information on the report and how to participate in the consultation.

The Fostering Network is the organisation at the heart of foster care in Scotland

We have strong links with:

  • staff at all levels within local authorities and independent providers
  • foster carers and foster care groups
  • the Scottish Government.

We have built up an unrivalled bank of information about foster care in Scotland, and through our offices in Belfast, Cardiff and London, we keep up-to-date with UK-wide developments

We also have very strong links with those working in the front line of foster care, which means we are aware of day-to-day practice issues facing agency staff and carers.

The AIM service can provide foster carers and agency workers with help to resolve specific queries or problems, and, if necessary, we can provide an independent mediation service.

A service for all agency staff

  • We can help you develop policies in specific areas
  • We can help you put together good practice guidelines
  • If you need factual information on a specific subject we can help
  • If you have a complex or problematic situation use us as a sounding board.

Independent and confidential help for foster carers

We can provide:

  • Advice on fostering related problems
  • Information on legal and financial issues related to foster care
  • Support and advice if you are unhappy about some aspect of your agency's service
  • Confidential, independent support and advice if an allegation or complaint is made against you

For more information on the AIM service, please contact the advice, information and mediation worker in your area. Sandra Moody in Central and South Scotland on 0141 204 1400, or by email at sandra.moody@fostering.net or Sue Hardman in the North of Scotland on 01330 811 896, email susan.hardman@fostering.net.