Children's Services Alternative Providers of Care

Description

The majority of children who come into the care of the Council are placed within the Council’s own children’s homes or with foster carers approved by the Council

However, under certain circumstances children may be placed with other organisations who supply residential or foster care. This is usually because a placement needs to be made in an emergency or that the child needs a package of care which is only available from a specialist provider.

All organisation used by BMBC have to have met the rigourous standards set by the Commission for Social Care Inspection. All these organisations are inspected and registered.

Eligibility

These arrangements apply to children who are brought into care and accommodated by the Social Services Department through agreement with the child’s parents or through a Court Order.

Procedure

Arrangement for where a child is to be placed are discussed in the Care Planning procedure and concerns about these arrangements are best raised with the social worker who is attached to the case.

Helplines

Please refer to the ''Associated Links'' for your nearest office.

Charges/Fees

There are currently no fees levied on the accommodation of children.

Method of Payments Available

Not applicable.

Opening Times

Not applicable.

How the customer can help

Because of the rules of confidentiality we may require proof of identitiy before we can discuss any case details with you.

Application form references

Not applicable.

Leaflets

Guidance leaflets on the accommodation of children are available from all social services reception areas.

Please refer to the ''Associated Links'' for your nearest office.

Distribution Points

Not applicable.

Legislation

The Children Act 1989 is the primary legislation although there are a number of other specific areas of legislation affecting these arrangements. For further details please speak to the social worker concerned.

Websites

Not applicable.

Response Times / Next Steps

Not applicable.

Out of Hours Procedure

The Council have an Emergency Duty Team. Details are found elsewhere on the website. The Police and Hospitals also have contact information.

Owner Officer Contact Details

Not applicable.

Additional Notes

Not applicable.

Related Links:

• Social Services District Offices