There are four important types of support that carers are offered. These are:
Every carer, once approved, has a liaison social worker. The liaison social worker has several roles. Firstly, they work with you to identify appropriate families who require support. This is called the 'matching process'. Matching is very important, and as far as possible, the circumstances of the child is considered so the placement provided is the most suitable to meet the child's needs. The liaison social worker will help identify whether you have the right skills and abilities, and the right family set-up, to offer what the child needs. In addition, support will be provided to ensure that you have all the information you need to care for the child, and have access to specialist advice where necessary.
Once the matching process is complete and you are working with the child, the liaison social worker has an ongoing supporting role. This includes providing practical and emotional support and keeping in regular contact with you. The liaison social worker will also help you identify training and support needs on an ongoing basis.
You can contact your liaison social workers at any time during office hours (Mon-Thurs 8.30am-5pm, Fri 8.30am-3.40pm) if you have any queries or concerns about the children you are supporting. If the liaison social worker is unavailable, then their line manager can help. Outwith office hours the Emergency Social Work Service can be contacted for advice and guidance.
After you have been approved as a carer, you not only get liaison social worker support but you are also offered a place at a carers' support group. These groups meet monthly to discuss and examine issues that arise whilst looking after children. They also provide an opportunity for you to develop your skills and knowledge. Liaison social workers and carers attend these groups, which occasionally feature guest speakers and short presentations.
Generally, carers find it valuable to be part of a group of carers where everyone can appreciate the difficulties and rewards of looking after other people's children. Support can be practical, it can include advice and it often involves emotional support - particularly if you are experiencing a demanding period with the child in your care. It can also be a useful opportunity for carers and social workers to identify needs for further group training.
There is always a social work service available, 365 days a year. The Emergency Social Work Services operate outwith normal office hours and you can contact them if they have any immediate queries or concerns regarding the child you look after. The Emergency Social Work Service can provide practical and emotional support if you are having problems with a child when your liaison social worker is unavailable.
Additionally, the Emergency Social Work Service occasionally place children with carers when an emergency situation demands that they are accommodated away from home.
The City of Edinburgh Council has developed a carer training programme and is committed to the continued development of its carers.
You and your liaison social worker can identify your training needs on an ongoing basis. Training needs can be met in a number of ways: the carers' support group's, your liaison social worker, or through courses offered by specialist organisations. The amount of training varies from carer to carer depending on your individual needs, experience, your level of availability and involvement.