About us - an extract from our Statement Of Purpose

Families

At the beginning of 2009 Family Matters had 27 carer families.  These form separate cluster groups, each headed by a senior carer who, with their extensive experience of fostering, provide friendship and a role model.  We view senior carers as the equivalent of grandparents in an extended family, although most of them are not particularly old!  The clusters are based in London, Kent, Sussex, Surrey, Devon and Cornwall.  The clusters organise their own social activities, and sometimes get together and invite members of the Head Office Team.

Staff

The staff at Family Matters are an enthusiastic and dedicated group of people.  We have a strong sense of being part of a body, with each person and role needing all the others.  There is therefore no hierarchical system: each person is afforded the same status and respect as everyone else.  Each member of staff is fully accountable, and receives monthly supervision.

We are very hot on staff development and training which we sponsor.

In January 2009 we had 14 members of staff, including qualified social workers, social work assistants, administrators and directors. 

Fostering Panel

We are rightly proud of our Panel which comprises 10 members, 3 of whom are staff members of Family Matters.  In addition we have representatives from the legal profession, education, care leavers, adopters and soocial workers.

Complaints

Family Matters has a rigorous complaints procedure.  In the past 12 months no formal complaints have been received.

Conclusion

This extract from our Statement of Purpose has given you an informative snapshot of Family Matters Fostering Ltd.  In addition the following documents are available on request:

The Status and Constitution of the Agency

Family Matters Organisational Structure

Family Matters Fostering Staff Register

Fostering with Family Matters

Please feel free to contact us with any comments or questions you may have.