Training and support
We've got a range of training and support available for approved foster carers in the borough.
Training, support and development standards (TSD) sessions
Everyone has to complete the TSD standards within 12 months of a child being placed with you.
Everyone is welcome to these friendly and relaxed sessions, they're a speedy way of completing the training, support and development (TSD) standards and meeting other carers. These are informal meetings and anyone wanting to start or continue with their TSD standards (formerly CWDC) booklets should come along.
We've not arranged the next session yet.
TSD standards workbook for foster carers
Foster carer briefings
The following briefings will be held at Number One Riverside, further details to be confirmed nearer the time.
- The next event is to be arranged.
E-learning courses for foster carers
Once approved, foster carers have access to e-learning resources, enabling you to update your information in the comfort of your own home and build on your own development.
Courses include:
- Cultural Awareness in Safeguarding
- Safeguarding Children in Rochdale
- Level 1 Food Safety and Hygiene
- Record and Report Writing for Foster Carers
Details on how to access this learning portal will be given to you by your supervising social worker once you've been approved.
Training calendar for foster carers
There are no scheduled training events - we'll add details of upcoming training here when we arrange more.
You need to book your place to attend any of these courses. Once you've booked, the trainer will contact you one week before the course to let you know the venue and the times of the morning, afternoon or full-day courses.
How to book your place on a course
Rochdale Safeguarding Partnership/Board (RBSB): to book your place on a course where the RBSB is the trainer, visit the RBSB website and complete their application form
Workforce Learning and Development: application forms for Workforce Learning and Development training will be sent to carers by email before each event. When completed, these should be emailed to learning@rochdale.gov.uk.
Support groups
These groups are organised by foster carers for foster carers.
There are facilities for children under 5 years old at both venues.
- Focus group - this is a support group for all with a focus on all issues surrounding fostering, so far we have discussed secondary trauma, the effects of diet and adult attachment styles. It’s a very warm and friendly group and a great place to discuss any difficulties you are experiencing emotionally or behaviourally. If you're interested in setting up a support group in your area please speak to your link worker.
- Support group at Butterworth Hall Community Centre - Wednesday mornings 9am-12pm at Butterworth Hall Community Centre, New Street, Milnrow, Rochdale OL16 3PQ.
- Birth children support groups - these are held for sons and daughters of foster carers, during school holidays. Activities include cinema, bowling, laser quest. The next event to be arranged.
- Support group - one of our foster carers has organised the venue for the new support group in Littleborough. It will take place at Littleborough Children’s Centre, Denhurst Road, Littleborough, Rochdale OL15 9LD. Approved carers will be informed of times as appropriate.
Fun days
Events are held during the school holidays, for the children you're caring for, your own children and all foster carers.
Approved carers will be informed of events over the course of the year.