Connected Carers Assessment & Support Pilot

Tender description

This STA sets out the service requirements for the delivery of Form K assessments including a support plan and bespoke packages of support for potential connected carers in Hackney. As a key initiative within the Fostering Futures Transformation Programme, this pilot project focuses on increasing the retention of foster carers by providing timely assessment and dedicated support during the critical initial 12–16 week period of a placement. The service targets arrangements where a child is formally ‘looked after’ by the Local Authority and living with a friend or family member who will be assessed to become their official connected carer. This test-and-learn initiative is designed to evaluate how timely integrated assessment and support can prevent placement breakdowns and reduce the risk of escalation to mainstream care. Hackney Council is commissioning for the delivery of this combined offer, ensuring carers are better prepared from day one. By providing the right support at the right time, the project aims to show if there is a positive impact on placement stability and highlight the specific types of interventions required for this cohort. The pilot will help address current internal capacity gaps within the Corporate Parenting Service and provide essential data to inform future service delivery. Lessons learned will determine the long-term requirements for in-house and/or commissioned support models, ensuring a sustainable approach to supporting connected carers in the borough. This is a time limited pilot project. Any further contract that may be required will be awarded via a competitive procurement process in order to ensure value for money.