How is progress reviewed during the Foster Care 18–21 Programme?

Progress reviews in the Foster Care 18–21 Programme are structured discussions used to assess how the arrangement is working and whether the support remains suitable for the young adult’s current circumstances. They are not simply a test of whether targets have been met. The purpose is to understand progress, address difficulties early and agree practical changes where these are needed.

The review normally considers the young adult’s views first. They should have an opportunity to explain what is going well, what they find difficult and whether their goals or priorities have changed. This helps ensure that the plan reflects their wishes and does not rely solely on reports from adults involved in the arrangement.

Information may be gathered from the foster carer and relevant professionals, where appropriate. This can include observations about day-to-day independence, engagement with agreed plans and any support that has been provided. The young adult should be told what information is being considered and how it will inform decisions, subject to the usual safeguarding and confidentiality requirements.

Reviews are usually guided by the existing support plan or agreed goals. These might include managing money, cooking, household responsibilities, travel, appointments, education, training or employment. The discussion should focus on practical evidence of progress rather than general impressions. For example, it may consider which tasks the young adult now manages alone, where reminders are still needed and what help could support the next step.

• The young adult’s contribution: their views, preferences, achievements, concerns and future plans should be recorded and taken seriously.
• The foster carer’s contribution: the carer can describe how the household arrangement is working, what support has been effective and whether expectations remain realistic.
• Professional information: relevant professionals can clarify progress against agreed plans and identify services or advice that may be needed.
• Agreed actions: the review should identify who will do what, by when and how the outcome will be checked.

A young adult does not necessarily need to have achieved every planned goal for progress to be recognised. Circumstances such as changes in education, employment, health, relationships or finances can affect what is realistic. Where a target is no longer appropriate, it can be revised rather than treated as a failure. The important point is that the plan remains meaningful and supports the young adult’s development.

A review may lead to changes in the level or type of support. For example, it could result in more help with budgeting, a clearer household agreement, additional preparation for moving on or a referral to another service. It may also confirm that the current arrangements are working and should continue without significant change. Any decision should be explained clearly to the young adult and foster carer.

Reviews also provide an opportunity to identify concerns that should not wait for the next planned discussion. A significant change in circumstances, a serious disagreement in the household, a deterioration in wellbeing or a safeguarding concern should be raised through the appropriate procedure as soon as it becomes known. The matter may then require a separate assessment or meeting rather than being dealt with as routine progress monitoring.

Records of the review should set out the views expressed, the progress considered, decisions made and actions agreed. They should also make clear when the arrangements will be looked at again and who to contact if circumstances change before then. Accurate records help everyone work from the same information and reduce the risk of an important concern being overlooked.

As the young adult moves towards the end of the programme, reviews should increasingly consider the next stage. This may involve discussing accommodation, income, education or employment, ongoing relationships and any practical support that will be needed after the arrangement ends. Planning should begin early enough for outstanding tasks to be identified and addressed in a manageable way.

The exact format and participants can vary according to the young adult’s circumstances and the procedures of the responsible local authority or fostering service. The key principles remain the same: involve the young adult, consider reliable information, respond to changing needs and record clear, achievable actions.