Will I be rejected for history?

[isitstilljanuary]

I had a horrible divorce several years ago, following DV, courts were involved and it got very nasty. Cafcass took fathers side and I was deemed to be guilty of alienating the children rather than telling the truth.

DS has had behavioural issues and needed mental health support. There were many SS referrals following abuse at contact.

I also needed MH support myself at the time.

All this happened several years ago now and we all couldn't be happier.

I have had it on my heart for many years to foster, I even thought about it before having DC. But I worry that this would all be a barrier to fostering.

Yes, I'm afraid it would if the court took that view you describe

All you can do is be open and honest. But if you go on saying the court was at fault I don't think it would help.

Just be open and honest with them and see how the assessment goes.

Hi, this is a tricky one because the Courts have a view and this is likely to have been backed up by evidence presented to them.

However, bearing in mind this was a few years ago now, an assessment will look at the issues in detail and what was going on for you at the time. The essential thing is what have you learned from this.

From what you have said – DV, mental health issues, contact, divorce – these are all areas which are relevant in fostering.
Many children will come from these backgrounds, so an understanding and empathy is a good quality to have in fostering.

LaurieFairyCake makes a good point about the Court and I would agree if you deny the issues and place blame elsewhere it shows little reflection and learning.

good luck with your assessment, I am sure you will be fine. Be honest and open with the LA or IFA from the beginning though as much of what you say can be evidenced via social services and the Courts.