Minister launches consultation on draft NI Fostering Services Minimum Standards
Date published:
Health Minister Mike Nesbitt today launched a 13-week consultation on draft Northern Ireland Fostering Services Minimum Standards.
The draft Minimum Standards, together with The Foster Placement and Fostering Agencies Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2025 (when made), will form the basis of the assessment framework for the conduct of fostering services provided by Health and Social Care Trusts and independent fostering agencies.
There are now more than 4,000 children in care in Northern Ireland, and the numbers have increased by 40% over the past 10 years. Most of these children are living with foster parents.
Minister Nesbitt said: “The majority of children who are in care are cared for by foster carers, who provide loving, caring, warm and stable family environments.
“As the number of children in care continues to increase, we will need more foster carers. It is intended that the draft Minimum Standards will be used by fostering service providers to focus on securing positive welfare, health, and education experiences for children, and reducing risks to their welfare and safety.
“They will ensure that all providers and staff of fostering services aim to provide the best care possible for the children for whom they are responsible, and that foster parents are properly supported.
“I would encourage you to respond to the consultation so that the standards continue to reflect collaboration with all relevant stakeholders to ensure the best possible quality of fostering services in Northern Ireland.”
The consultation is due to close on 7th September 2025.
Notes to editors:
1. The consultation package, including the response questionnaire, can be accessed at the following link:
https://consultations2.nidirect.gov.uk/doh-1/consultation-on-fostering-services-min-standards
2. The Minimum Standards have been informed by extensive consultation, in particular a working group comprising representation from all key stakeholders, including those representing care experienced children and young people and foster parents, as well as foster parents themselves.
3. For media enquiries please contact the DoH Press Office by email pressoffice@health-ni.gov.uk.
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