HSE fails to fully assess hundreds of foster carers

HUNDREDS of foster carers are not fully approved by the HSE, many do not have a link social worker and Children First Guidelines still have not been implemented in all areas, a Health and Information Quality Authority (HIQA) report into foster care services has revealed.

Following an inspection of foster services last year, a subsequent report by HIQA has found that of 12 recommendations made, just one was fully met, two were not met, and nine were partly met.

Last July, HIQA officials instructed the HSE to, as a matter of priority, ensure any deficiencies in the vetting of existing non-relative foster carers were identified and addressed.