“Training is a key factor”

Orange Grove Fostercare produces a carer training plan each year. The training plan covers national carer training in the following areas as well as local carer training which is organised regionally. The list of training offered is not exhaustive.

The national training programme covers:

Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (Fostering) / Management of Aggression

The techniques presented in this course are designed to provide Foster Carers with the skills, knowledge and confidence needed in order to deal with children/young people in crisis and to be in control of the situation so as to bring about change and growth.

Parent & Child Placement

This course aims to help carers understand the specific needs of both mother and baby when ‘looked after’ together. It helps to develop an awareness of the situations which require interventions by the carer and when it is important to take a step back.

Child Protection

The aims of this course are to enable carers to gain a deeper understanding on the impact of abuse and consider the impact abuse has on children and young people. Also to update Foster Carers on new legislation, guidance and research. Children with Challenging Behaviour The course allows carers to consider what is meant by challenging behaviour and why children exhibit this type of behaviour. Carers will learn how to raise the child’s self-esteem and improve behaviour.

Bonding & Attachment

The aims of this course are to remind carers of the theory relating to bonding and attachment and enable carers to identify behaviours that may indicate attachment problems in children. It also explores a number of interventions that can be used to help children with attachment problems to relate better to carers.

Other national training covered is:

Safeguarding Board

Dealing with Sexualised Behaviour

Implications of HIV and AIDS

Child Care Approaches

Normal and Abnormal Child Development and Health

Nutrition

Education

The local training programme covers for the following areas:

First Aid

Listening Skills

Report Writing

Record Keeping

Diversity

Promoting Education

Working with Local Authorities

Legislation I Should Know.