Made enquiaries regarding respite foster carer.

[miwelaisjacydo]

For children with disabilities to give the family a break. LA are sending out an information pack and want to arrange a home visit. My question is in that initial home visit would they want to see the whole house?

Am happy for them to but we are currently doing up the spare room.

Should imagine you will go through the same as a carer who has all types of placements. Your home is classed as place of business so you need to ensure it is safe and you will need gas, electric certificates. I think it is usual for you to need spare room ready. The SW will advise you of all you need to do. They will look all over house to check windows , locks etc.
It's a lovely thing for you to provide respite for disabled children. Some families are in desperate need for a little break. Good luck.

I used to do this. it's the same process for approval as for a foster carer, but shorter time wise.

they looked at every room except our bedroom, and checked our doors for toughened glass from the waist down, stairs and handrail, chemicals and storage, knives, medicines, pets etc

good luck

Our LA checked our room - it wasn't quite finished but didn't look at anything else that came later x

I had my initial visit yesterday, not specifically for respite so I don't know if that process is any different...? But anyway, the SW asked to 'look around the house to see the space available' and I showed her every room. In my situation, I'm currently sleeping in the spare bedroom that would become a foster child's bedroom, and there's no furniture at all in my bedroom just a few unpacked boxes. She wasn't bothered at all by this, but did say that at a later date in the process a SW will make sure that the house is suitable.

I was told the other day by our SSW that now the whole house had to be checked. In the past it has only been children's bedrooms/bathrooms and living areas. Now they have to see our bedroom/bathroom and the rooms of any of our own children (oh dear!!!)

My visiting social worker looked inside my son's room and held his nose! However, he was realistic about what young men's rooms are like and it did not appear to phase him. Later there will be a proper health and safety assessment where I will have to do a proper clear out. Back to bleach in locked cupboards, etc but for now on a first visit they just want to see that you have a proper room and a neighbourhood and house that will be ok for a child.