What happens if a foster placement is not the right match?

A foster placement that is not the right match is one where the child’s needs, the household’s circumstances or the available support are not sufficiently aligned for the arrangement to continue safely and positively. A placement may be reconsidered because of differences in behaviour, communication, routines, relationships, cultural needs, health requirements or the level of care required. Recognising this does not mean that the foster carer or child has failed; it means the arrangement needs to be reviewed carefully.

Raise concerns early

Foster carers should speak to their supervising social worker as soon as they are worried. It is useful to explain what has happened, when concerns arise, what has already been tried and how the situation is affecting the child and other members of the household. Keeping clear, factual records can help the professionals understand patterns and make informed decisions. Concerns should not be left until a scheduled meeting if there is a risk to anyone’s safety or wellbeing.

The supervising social worker will usually help coordinate the response with the child’s social worker, the placing authority and other relevant professionals. The child’s views and welfare are central, while the impact on the foster carer, the household and any other children in the home must also be considered.

The first step is normally a review of the placement

Professionals may look at:

• the child’s assessed needs and whether these were understood accurately before the placement;
• the foster carer’s approval, experience, household circumstances and available capacity;
• what is happening at home, school and during contact with family members;
• whether the child’s behaviour could indicate distress, unmet needs or a safeguarding concern;
• the support, training, respite or specialist advice currently available; and
• whether changes to routines, boundaries, contact arrangements or professional involvement could improve the situation.

A review may lead to an updated support plan rather than an end to the placement. For example, the team may agree clearer daily routines, additional guidance about behaviour, a different approach to communication, more frequent professional meetings or further training. Any changes should be explained clearly, with agreement about who will do what and how progress will be monitored.

When a placement cannot continue

If it becomes clear that the placement cannot safely meet the child’s needs, the professionals will plan a move in line with the relevant care arrangements. The plan should consider the child’s immediate safety, emotional wellbeing, belongings, education, health needs, important relationships and contact with family members. The foster carer should be told what is expected of them and given an opportunity to share information that may help the next arrangement.

Where circumstances allow, a planned move is generally preferable because it gives the child time to understand what is happening and allows practical arrangements to be made. However, urgent action may be needed if there is an immediate safeguarding concern or a serious risk of harm. The exact arrangements depend on the circumstances and the decisions of the placing authority.

If there is an allegation or safeguarding concern

An allegation, disclosure or concern about a child’s safety must be reported through the agreed safeguarding procedure. Foster carers should contact their supervising social worker or the relevant professional without delay, follow the instructions given and keep their account factual. They should not question a child repeatedly, attempt to investigate the matter themselves or discuss confidential information with people who are not involved. The fostering service and placing authority will explain the next steps and any support available during the investigation.

What happens afterwards

When a placement ends unexpectedly, the fostering team should review what happened with the carer. This can identify whether the original information was complete, whether the matching process could have highlighted particular issues, and what support or training might be helpful for future placements. It is also an opportunity to consider the effect on other household members and to agree whether any changes are needed before another child is considered.

Foster carers should ask for a clear explanation of the decisions made, the records that will be completed and any actions expected of them. They can also discuss how the experience may affect their approval or future matching. A placement ending is not automatically an indication that someone cannot foster again, but future decisions must take account of the circumstances, the carer’s learning and the needs of any child being considered.