Policies and Procedures

Policies and Procedures

Sparks Fostering policies and procedures outline the core expectations and functioning of the agency. The policies and procedures take into account the national guidance and standards for fostering, and also includes specific information about Sparks Fostering. Sparks foster carers and staff are required to read each policy and procedure at least once a year. By regularly reviewing the policies and procedures, staff and foster carers are able to work with a shared understanding of each other’s roles and how we can provide the best possible care for the children. 

The Children’s Guide summarises the key information that children and young people need to know about Sparks Fostering. Foster carers share the guide with children as soon as possible. 

Local authority Policies and Procedures

Approved foster carers and their social workers are expected to have access to local authority policies which pertain to the children in their care. 

If a child goes missing, carers and social workers must refer to local protocols. 

GREATER MANCHESTER

Pan-Greater Manchester Protocol on Missing Children and Young People. 

GM Runaway and Missing from Home Protocol

Greater Manchester Safeguarding Children Procedures Manual (including allegations and online safety)

Philomena Protocol

LEICESTER AND LEICESTERSHIRE AND RUTLAND

Safeguarding children partnerships procedures manual.

NORTH YORKSHIRE

LADO – Managing allegations against those who work or volunteer with children

Missing from home and care protocol

North Yorkshire Safeguarding Children Partnership

Staying safe online

ROCHDALE

A range of policies re: caring for children (including online and e-safety)

Allegations management 

Multi-agency policies and procedures (childrens)

Runaway and missing from home protocol

Free e-learning

TELFORD

Telford and Wrekin Safeguarding Partnerships website

TRAFFORD (see also ‘Greater Manchester)

E-safety

Trafford Children’s Services Procedure Manual (including complaints/allegations

WEST YORKSHIRE CONSORTIUM (Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees, Leeds and Wakefield)

Allegations against people who work with children

Children missing from home or care

Internet safety

Safeguarding, allegations and complaints

Social care online procedures

WILTSHIRE

Wiltshire safeguarding vulnerable people partnership

Children and families that go missing

Police guidance on missing children