Future of foster care: consultation analysis – updated final report

Appendix C: Quantitative analysis

The consultation included 12 closed questions which asked respondents for their views on the future of fostering. This appendix details the responses to these questions.

Not all respondents answered every question. Some may not have answered as they hold no strong view on the question, or it may not relate to their area of knowledge or expertise. Where those who did not answer the closed questions expressed a view in their open comments, this has been noted in the qualitative analysis.

To allow comparisons across sub-groups, the tables below present the results of the closed questions based on those who answered each question.

For clarity, each closed question shows:

• The percentage of respondents from the total sample of 103 respondents who selected each response (grey row).
• The number and percentage response among those who answered each question, broken down by individual and organisation responses (rows including and under “All answering”).

Please note that the row percentages may not add to 100% due to rounding.

Q7. Should we require all IFAs to have charitable status?

Q8. Should we limit how much local authorities can pay to IFAs?

Q9. Should IFAs be required to pay their foster carers the Scottish Recommended Allowance (SRA)?

Q14. Should there be a new national learning framework for foster carers which could also be a pathway for continuous development?

Q19. How effective is the current financial model for foster carers?

Q20. Do you think there should be a national approach to fees for foster carers?

Q21. Do you think there should be a national approach to additional payments?

Q22. Should the financial model for foster carers include a retainer fee for when a foster carer does not have a child placed with them?

Q23. Do you think there should be a national approach for Continuing Care allowances and fees?

Q27. Is the existing framework under which foster carers can make decisions clear?

Q28. Would further guidance, for example, good practice, be helpful to support decision-making for foster carers (sometimes called delegated decision-making) be helpful? If yes, please explain what you’d like it to include.

Q34. Should the Scottish Government update its guidance on managing allegations against foster carers?