Safeguarding Failures in Foster Care: Case Reviews & Lessons

Safeguarding is the cornerstone of any foster care system. Yet, recent reviews have highlighted gaps that can put children at risk. This article examines real case studies, explains why failures happen, and offers practical lessons for carers, agencies and policymakers. It is written for those already working in or considering fostering in London, with reference to local authority and independent agency practices.

What fostering is and who it helps

Fostering places children who cannot live with their birth families into caring homes. The goal is stability, protection and support for emotional and educational development. Foster carers provide a safe environment, routine and the love a child needs while a permanent placement is sought.

Children benefiting from fostering include those in care for physical or emotional abuse, neglect, or where parents cannot provide suitable care. In London, the diversity of the population means carers often work with children from a range of cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

Benefits and responsibilities of foster carers

Carers receive training, support and financial reimbursement. In return, they take responsibility for the child’s day‑to‑day care, medical needs, schooling and welfare. They must uphold safeguarding standards, maintain records, and report concerns promptly.

Benefits extend beyond payments: carers gain experience, personal growth and a sense of purpose. However, the role also demands resilience, flexibility and the capacity to handle complex family histories.

Eligibility and assessment process

Applicants must meet basic criteria: be over 18, have a suitable home, and have no disqualifying criminal record. The assessment process is rigorous. It includes background checks, a home visit, and an interview with a social worker.

Assessments evaluate the applicant’s ability to manage a child’s needs, create a nurturing environment, and maintain open communication with agencies. Successful applicants receive a formal approval, allowing them to begin placement work.

Support, training and supervision provided

Training is delivered in phases: pre‑placement, ongoing and specialist courses. Topics cover child development, safeguarding law, health and safety, and cultural competence.

Supervision is regular and structured. Carers meet with a designated social worker at least quarterly, or more frequently if a child’s situation is complex. This supervision ensures that safeguarding concerns are identified early and addressed.

Allowances and payment structure explanation

According to official UK fostering guidance and local authority policies, carers receive a series of payments. These cover the child’s daily needs, household expenses and any additional costs such as travel or special equipment. The structure is tiered, reflecting the child’s age, health status and any additional support required.

Payments are made on a monthly basis and are subject to review. Carers are advised to keep detailed records of expenses, as these are required for accurate reimbursement.

How to apply for fostering in London

Prospective carers should first contact the London Borough of their choice. Each borough has a dedicated fostering team that provides information, guidance and an application form.

After completing the application, the applicant will undergo an assessment cycle that typically lasts 8 to 12 weeks. During this time, the applicant will attend training sessions, home visits and interviews.

Once approved, the carer is matched with a child through a formal placement process. Ongoing support continues throughout the placement, with the option to extend or change placements as needed.

Local fostering context and agencies including South East England and Greater London

London’s fostering landscape is diverse. Local authorities such as the London Borough of Haringey or the Greater London Authority collaborate with independent agencies. These agencies often specialise in certain child groups, such as those with special educational needs or from culturally diverse backgrounds.

Independent fostering agencies may offer more flexible placement options, but they are subject to the same regulatory oversight as local authorities. Carers should compare the support structures, training opportunities and payment arrangements of both types of agency.

For detailed guidance on fostering in South East England, see fostering allowances in London and the South East. For an overview of the current foster care shortage, this article provides useful context. Finally, this comparison helps carers decide which pathway suits them best.

Common challenges and realistic expectations

Carers often face the following challenges:

• Emotional strain: Children may have trauma that requires specialised support.
• Financial pressure: While payments cover many costs, unexpected expenses can arise.
• Regulatory complexity: Keeping up with safeguarding updates and documentation can be demanding.
• Support gaps: Some agencies may not provide timely supervision or training.

Realistic expectations include recognising that fostering is not a quick fix. It is a long‑term commitment that requires patience, flexibility and a strong support network.

Lessons from safeguarding failures: case reviews

Case 1: Overlooked risk assessment

In a London borough, a child with a history of self‑harm was placed in a new carer after a superficial assessment. The carer was unaware of the child’s mental health needs, leading to a crisis that required emergency intervention. The failure highlighted the need for comprehensive psychological screening and mandatory specialist training for carers handling high‑risk children.

Case 2: Inadequate supervision and support

A foster carer in Greater London reported that the social worker’s visits were infrequent and unstructured. As a result, a child’s medication schedule was missed, causing a health episode. This case underlines the importance of regular, structured supervision and clear communication channels between carers and agencies.

Case 3: Communication gaps between agencies and carers

When a child’s placement was transferred from one agency to another, critical information about the child’s cultural background and learning needs was omitted. The new carer struggled to adapt, leading to behavioural issues. The incident demonstrates the necessity of robust information transfer protocols and joint case reviews.

5 search‑intent FAQs

What is safeguarding in foster care?

Safeguarding refers to measures taken to protect children from abuse, neglect and harm. It includes risk assessment, training, supervision, and reporting procedures that all foster carers and agencies must follow.

How can I ensure I meet safeguarding standards?

By completing all required training, maintaining up‑to‑date records, attending regular supervision, and reporting any concerns promptly. Carers should also stay informed about changes to safeguarding legislation.

What happens if a safeguarding concern is raised during a placement?

A social worker will investigate the concern, which may involve additional training, a change of placement or, in severe cases, removal of the child from the current home. The process is governed by local authority policy and national guidelines.

Are there specific safeguards for children with special educational needs?

Yes. Carers of children with SEN must receive specialist training and work closely with educators to ensure the child’s educational and welfare needs are met. Agencies provide additional support and resources for such placements.

Can I continue working if I am a foster carer?

Most carers do work alongside fostering. However, they must balance work commitments with the child’s needs and ensure that any job does not interfere with their responsibilities or the child’s welfare.