Approval process
(see also assessment protocol)

Family carers will not be approved by fostering at modus until a thorough and rigorous assessment has been completed and all statutory checks received. Assessments shall be carried out according to the protocol referred to above.

When an assessment is complete, a report shall be written and shared with the prospective carers. This report shall then be circulated to the modus fostering panel, in advance of a panel meeting.

The Panel will consider the assessment and will make recommendations to modus about the approval of the family carers. This recommendation will include whether the family carer(s) should be approved, the terms of that approval, together with any special placement or matching considerations.

When modus decides to approve a person as a family carer, following such recommendations, the prospective carer will be notified in writing, specifying the terms of the approval. The foster care agreement will then be drawn up and signed by both parties.

In the event of a prospective carer not being approved, modus will notify her/him of this decision, together with reasons and a copy of the Panel recommendation. modus will also notify the prospective carer of her/his right to make written representations within 28 days of the notice.

If such written representations are received, the matter will be taken back to the Panel and modus will then make a decision, taking into account any fresh recommendations made by the Panel.