Mentoring Scheme
Staffordshire recognises that the role of a Foster Carer is complex and demanding.
The purpose of the mentoring scheme is to provide an enhanced support service to Foster Carers, with the aim of developing the skills and understanding of the fostering task, and thereby sustaining placements and improving outcomes for children.
The Mentor
The Mentor is an experienced Foster Carer who will provide one to one support and advice to carers in assessment, newly approved and existing Foster Carers through identified tasks.
The Mentor will:-
- Maintain regular contact
- Promote awareness of the fostering task
- Encourage and reassure
- Raise self-esteem and confidence
- Encourage the development of skills
- Enhance the quality of care to children
- Increase knowledge base
- Improve the retention of Foster Carers
- Promote teamwork
The Mentee
All fostering applicants will be matched with a Mentor. Regular meetings between Mentor and Mentee will be agreed. The Mentor will help the Mentee settle into the role by: Introducing the Mentee to support groups and training, assisting with the completion of TSD Standards Portfolio and assisting with familiarisation with Children and Family Services.
Experienced Foster Carers are able to access the Mentoring Service via their own Social Worker when extra support is required for a specific issue.
Allocating a Mentor
The Mentoring Scheme Co-ordinator will match Foster Carers to Mentors following a referral from the Mentee’s Fostering Social Worker.
A range of criteria will be used to ensure a successful match, e.g., fostering experiences of the Mentor, geography, personality and learning styles. Should the match not be successful the co-ordinator will seek an alternative Mentor.
Confidentiality under Mentoring Scheme
The relationship between the Mentor and Mentee requires trust and understanding around the issues of confidentiality. A confidentiality agreement will be signed. Personal details of the discussions will not be disclosed without permission of the other party. This commitment will continue following the conclusion of the mentoring. However, if the information received discloses an illegal act or serious concerns of potential risks to children, adults or the service, the Mentor and Mentee will be under an obligation to break this confidentiality.
It is hoped the Mentoring Scheme will assist in raising the skills and development of Foster Carers in our service which will compliment the role of Social Workers and improve outcomes for children and young people.