Every Child Matters – what is it, and what does it mean for foster carers?

In 2003, the government introduced the ‘Every Child Matters’ initiative, which seeks to ensure that all children in the UK are safe and healthy, before incorporating it into the Child Act the following year.

Here’s what you should know about how this relates to foster families and children in foster care from us at Beacon Fostering.

What is the initiative?

The initiative is about improving the lives of the most vulnerable and at-risk children, who are not fortunate enough to grow up in loving, stable families. Regardless of their backgrounds, every child should have these outcomes in their lives and upbringings:

• Being healthy
• Staying safe
• Making a positive contribution
• Emotional wellbeing
• Enjoy and achieve

Its link to fostering families

Foster carers can ensure that they maintain the wellbeing of their foster children by following the outcomes of the Every Child Matters initiative.

Although they will be doing this in their everyday life with the child or children in question, the fostering agency or local authority can also play a role in ensuring that the carers and child receive the support they need in their fostering journey.

Being healthy refers to physical and mental wellbeing, and can include providing guidance for older children on how to manage financial issues, as well as household activities such as washing and cleaning.

Safety is ensured through regular safeguarding training and following a child protection policy, along with allowing concerns to be voiced. It’s hoped that if children feel they can make positive contributions to their families and daily life, they will develop positive self-esteem and have a more enjoyable childhood.