Policies & Documents
On this page you'll find all kinds of useful information, including official reports and policies. Some of the leaflets may be a little dated (we are currently in the process of updating them all) but much of the general information remains the same or similar.
Please select from the list of resources and downloads below. All documents are downloadable as PDFs. You will need Adobe Reader to be able to view and print PDF documents. Adobe Reader is a FREE piece of software. Click here to download Adobe Reader.
For more info, chat to our friendly fostering team anytime on 0800 587 9900.
Useful Documents
Foster Carer Handbook 2024
A Guide for Foster Carers 2024
Foster Carer Handbook
A Guide for Foster Carers 2022
Foster Carer Agreement Oct 2022
This is a copy of the agreement foster carers sign when they are approved.
A Book List for Prospective Foster Carers
A list of recommended reading for anyone considering becoming a foster carer.
Training Plan 2021-2022
Download this booklet to find out about all the training offered to foster carers.
Fostering - Know Your Rights
Information about the rights of Social Care clients.
Foster Carer Progression Scheme July 2019
Detailed information on our Foster Carer Progression Scheme
Foster Panel Appeal Process
Find out more about how the Foster Panel works and how to appeal against their decisions.
A Guide for Foster Carers and Social Workers
Edited version of the Community Care Inform Children’s guide to the responsibilities of the carers and social workers involved in fostering.
Leaflets and Posters
Stepping Stones Flyer 2018
Stepping Stones Flyer 2020
Feasibility Study TAUNTON - A4 Poster
Feasibility Study TAUNTON - A5 Flyer
Caring for Challenging Children & Teens 2018
Could you offer a young person in crisis guidance, stability, and a place to call home? We offer on-call support, fantastic training and the chance to be part of a dedicated team - read about our schemes here.
Reports
Fostering Service Annual Reports
Reports about the fostering service's annual performance and looking forward to the year ahead.
Fostering Service Annual Report 2020 - 2021
Fostering Service Annual Report 2019 - 2020
Fostering Service Annual Report 2017 - 2018
Fostering Service Annual Report 2016 - 2017
Fostering Panel Annual Reports
Fostering Panel Annual Report 2022 - 2023
Fostering Panel Annual Report 2020 - 2021
Fostering Panel Annual Report 2019 - 2020
Fostering Panel Annual Report 2018 - 2019
Policies & Statements
Somerset County Council Permanence Statement
This is the Council's statement on how children in care will be looked after.
Fostering Statement Of Purpose 2021 - 2022
This Statement of Purpose sets out what services are provided for children who are placed with Somerset’s Fostering Service and also includes those provided by other agencies.
