You’d think that managing six of your own children and two foster children would be enough of a qualification in itself but a Chiswick couple are amongst seven local foster carers who are celebrating their exam results after passing their National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ).

The foster carers took the qualifications as part of Hounslow Council’s drive to boost training for families who care for the borough’s looked after children.

The course took around six months, which involved written work as well as being observed with foster children in various settings.

Chiswick's Kevin and Paula Foster completed a level 3 NVQ in Health and Social Care. Kevin said, “It was a bit stressful at times, but if we can manage it with six kids and two foster children, anyone can.

“I enjoyed the monthly workshops where the seven of us and two assessors worked through topics.

“The foster carers really supported each other - if you had a problem with something, someone would help, and you’d do the same when someone else was struggling.

“Paula found it easier than me as I like to take my time, but we had great assessors who helped us both get through it.

“I’d definitely recommend it. It’s a good qualification to have, it recognises the work we do, and it will really be useful with future placements.

“It’s good for fostering generally as it’s getting more professional so this helps carers get to a good standard.”

The NVQ training is part of the council’s drive to improve fostering in the borough and it is hoped that eventually all foster carers will either have their NVQ or be working towards it. The council encourages foster carers to take vocational qualifications to recognise their professional expertise in caring for children and young people.

Cllr Lin Davies, lead member for family at the council, said, "Our foster carers do an excellent job making a real difference to the lives of children. This training gives the support and recognition of their achievements that they deserve

"It shows their commitment to deliver a quality service that is focused on achieving the very best outcomes for all the children and young people we look after.

"By achieving an NVQ carers are able to prove their skills and knowledge, which enhances their professional standing.

“The demands on foster carers are increasing, and so we are committed to providing training that gives them a professional qualification, and provides a high quality service to the vulnerable young people they care for.”

Hounslow has a dedicated team of foster carers who help look after the children and young people who come into its care, but is always looking to recruit more. To find out more about fostering a child, visit www.hounslow.gov.uk/fostering, email fostering@hounslow.gov.uk or call the fostering team on 0800 731 8558.

September 12, 2008