Family Matters is established on principles of teamwork, communication and professional responsibility.  We aim to provide:

High quality care in a family setting for all children and young people who need it.   This is enhanced by an organisational structure based on the familiar “extended family” concept, with “Grandparent/Aunt/Uncle” figures providing all additional evening and respite care. Priority for the needs of the child or young person in determining each foster placement.  Family Matters recruits and trains a wide range of main and supplementary carers to meet every child’s needs, thus providing a family network to support the child. Respect for the diversity of each child in the planning and provision of each placement. Continuity in the lives of children and young people.  By providing both main and supplementary carers the load is shared, greatly increasing the viability of placements.  Continuity of care is protected, enabling education, physical and mental well-being and identity to be promoted and the child’s potential achieved. 24 hour support for foster carers and children in their household. A partnership embracing families and children, foster carers, social work staff and placing agencies with every individual working together in the best interest of the fostered child. A standard of excellence in training, support and information for foster carers, social work staff to enable them to meet the needs of each child. Respect, good remuneration and rest for foster carers as equal partners in the fostering team. Accurate and efficient reporting methods to safeguard the fostered child and foster carers. A responsible attitude to the limited resources of Local Authorities to ensure that as many children as possible can receive the best possible care.