The impact of an allegation can be very widespread. Of course, the child or young person who has made the allegation must be at the centre of concern.
However, although the allegations process plays an essential role in safeguarding children, it can be a very difficult time for the whole fostering family. Allegations of abuse can affect the whole family and often cause anxiety, distress and anger.
All fostering services should have a written policy that states how they would help to find and fund any therapy or counselling that foster carers, or their family, need because of the allegations process.
The impact on children
The investigation can impact other children in the household in several ways, both directly and indirectly. During the investigation, the children and young people in the household – particularly the child or young person who has made the allegation – may be moved if there is a serious concern about their welfare. While this does not always happen, moving any children out of the household will have an impact on everyone. It may help to explain what’s happening to children in an age-appropriate way (while maintaining confidentiality as required) to help them understand and process the situation. Giving all children the space to share their thoughts and feelings may also help them to deal with these changes.
Depending on the specific circumstances and the level of perceived or assessed risk, it may be possible for the child who has made the allegation to stay in the foster home. In these cases, a different plan may be agreed, such as the subject of the allegation being asked to move out of the home while the investigation takes place, or a member of the foster carer’s support network being asked to move in for the duration of the investigation.