Memorandum submitted by The Fostering Network Wales (VC 4)

The Fostering Network Wales welcomes legislation for Wales that gives maximum flexibility for policy development to improve the lives of children looked after.

The picture for vulnerable children in Wales is bleak and legislation to address the poor outcomes for children looked after is needed.

There has been a year on year increase of looked after children and subsequently an increase in children cared for by foster carers.

Welsh Local Government Data Unit

Children who are looked after are, perhaps, the most vulnerable of children, having required an intervention which has separated them from their families. Many of these children have been abused or rejected by their families. Outcomes for this group of children and young people are notoriously poor. They are recognised by the Assembly Government as 'young people who are in greatest need' (Rights to Action p5).

Three quarters of the children looked after in Wales are in foster care. Improving foster care is, therefore, crucial to improving outcomes for looked after children. The purpose of the Fostering Network is to ensure that all children and young people who are fostered get the best possible care. Fostering Network also works to support children 'on the edge of care' and care leavers.

The figures quoted above from the Welsh Local Government data unit illustrate the urgent need for action for this group of vulnerable children and The Fostering Network Wales would urge that there is the minimum of delay in the legislative process.

18 April 2008