Whilst going on holiday with a child in your care as a foster carer can present more challenges than going on holiday with your own biological children and family, the process can be easily managed and arranged.
Get Permission Before You Book
Never book a holiday and then ask for later for the child to go on. You need to speak with your supervising social worker and get written consent from the child’s social worker and in some cases the local authority who hold parental responsibility for the child.
Travel Within the UK
If you are planning a holiday within England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, the main thing to do is inform your child’s supervising Social Worker of the dates and destination of your holiday and make sure that the child has contact as necessary. The child’s placing authority may not need to issue a formal consent letter but this will depend on your fostering agency.
Travel Abroad Requires More Steps
When children are placed with Foster Care Neath, Foster Carers need to obtain written permission from the placing authority and where a care order is in place, consent from the court. The Welsh Government’s foster care guidance provides information regarding parental responsibility and the decisions Foster Carers can make independently.
Documents to Carry
A copy of the child’s placement agreement, the child’s Foster Care Neath consent form, your agency’s emergency contact details and the child’s medical information should be taken on holiday. Check with your agency for specific documentation required for your placement.
Supporting the Child During the Holiday
Even if you are planning a fun holiday, it can be unsettling for children who are used to a routine. By keeping mealtimes consistent, explaining to the child what you intend to do and when you are going, and bringing items from home with you, you can make their holiday as enjoyable as yours. A useful reference for Foster Care Neath is https://saferfostering.org.uk/foster-care-wales/neath.
With good preparation the whole family can then enjoy their time together.
