My Child in Care Review
Child in Care Review meetings are regular meetings held by your IRO (Independent Reviewing Officer) and should take place every 6 months. A Child in Care Review is where all the people involved in looking after you check your care plan.
They normally take place every 6 months but when you first come into care, you should have one in the first 20 days, then within 3 months and then 6 monthly after that. BUT they can happen as often as they are needed - you may want an early meeting if you feel something isn't going right. You can talk to your IRO about this
Child in Care Reviews are where everyone makes sure you are happy and that everyone’s doing what they should to help you. Changes will be discussed at this meeting, or anything you want to talk about - if you have anything you need help with, just ask!
If you’re feeling shy, you can also bring your advocate, independent visitor or someone who will help you feel more comfortable, or can speak up for you.
Before the Child in Care Review, everyone involved in your care should be asked what they think, including you and your parents. Your views must be listened to before any decisions are taken about your care and you will get a copy of everything discussed in the meeting.
A Child in Care Review is when…
- Your Care Plan gets reviewed
- Any big changes need to be agreed by the Independent Reviewing Officer
- Children’s services look at how they can support you and help you look forward
- You have a chance to share your views, wishes and feelings about what you want to happen in your life
Who is there?
The Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) who will…
- Make sure that you are able to share your views, wishes and feelings and that they are heard at the meeting
- Challenge any decisions if they feel they are not best for you
- Make sure you are getting the right support
- Help you to understand the situation you are in and your care plan
Who else is there?
Your Social Worker should talk to you about who you would like to invite but usually it’s your...
- Social worker
- Family
- The foster carer's Social Worker
- Your carers
Have your say by....
- Going to your review
- Speaking to your Independent Reviewing Officer
- Using MOMO advocacy app
- Writing a letter or drawing a picture
- Keeping a diary or making a scrap book
- Keeping a list of all the things you want to say and asking someone your trust to help you say what you want, like an Advocate
- Having an Independent Advocate, someone outside of children’s services who can help you have your say
Did you know...
You or your parents can ask for a review at any time!
The meeting should only happen at a time and place that is good for you - its your meeting after all!
You can contact your Independent Reviewing Officer at any time if you are worried about something or would like something to change