Resources and services designed to assist and sustain primary caregivers.
```html As someone who has walked the halls of residential care and sat on both sides of the table, I know that the word "allegation" is perhaps the most frightening term in a professional’s vocabulary. It’s a moment where time seems to stop, and your commitment to the children you care for feels...
A Local Area Designated Officer (LADO) is a statutory role within the UK children's services. Their primary responsibility is to manage and oversee allegations made against adults who work with children (whether in a paid or voluntary capacity). The LADO ensures that all allegations are handled...
In the social care sector, we talk a lot about "child-centered practice." But there is a massive difference between talking about children and letting them lead the conversation. Here is why this step isn't just a "nice to have"—it is a fundamental necessity for modern fostering, and why I, as a...
A comprehensive guide to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) for families and professionals, covering referrals, services, and support for young people’s mental health.
If you are caring for a looked-after child, or you are a professional new to the sector, the acronyms can feel endless. But the Personal Education Plan (PEP) is one of the most vital tools we have. In my years of experience, both living through the care system and working within it, I’ve seen PEP...
An unauthorised absence is any instance when a child is not where she/he should be. This includes the foster home, school, an authorised activity venue, etc. The police do not need to be informed of an unauthorised absence unless their wearabouts / reason is unknown or their is an risk of harm at the known location.
Hearing the words "Emergency Protection Order" can be one of the most terrifying moments in a parent's life. Everything moves fast—social workers, police, courts—and it can feel like you have absolutely no control. At Looked After Child, we believe that even in the scariest moments, knowledge is...
Whether you are a foster carer, a residential childcare worker, or a connected person, understanding the statutory review process is vital. These meetings are not just administrative checkpoints; they are the moments where we ensure a child is safe, happy, and thriving. Here are the most...
Parents in the UK are in a powerful position to shape how their children feel about learning for the rest of their lives. Long before GCSEs, SATs or Ofsted reports, curiosity starts (and can be quietly snuffed out) at home. This guide is about how you can protect that spark and help your child...
Introduction: Being a looked after child can have a profound and lasting impact on a young person's life. While every experience is unique, there are common challenges and long-term effects that care leavers often face. This article aims to shed light on these effects, emphasizing the importance...
Discovering the art world offers profound therapeutic benefits for children with learning disabilities. It’s a powerful medium for self-expression and fosters an environment where inclusivity flourishes. By embracing the arts, you can unlock possibilities for your child, providing them a platform...
In our relentlessly fast-paced world, you play a crucial role in steering children towards activities that promote relaxation and mindfulness. Your exploration into these simple yet deeply impactful activities is key to enhancing the well-being of young minds. You are instrumental in nurturing a...
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