F.A.I.R. (Foster Allegation Information Resource)

Foster parents are at a higher risk of abuse allegations than the general population due to:

• Standards for licensed providers
• Close monitoring by HHS due to
  placements in the home
• Children in care with difficult
  behaviors can increase stress levels
• Children in care may be mad at
  their parents
• Children in care may have flashbacks
  from past abuse
• Lack of information
• Lack of support

 

Please keep in mind that:

• An abuse allegation does not mean that you are presumed guilty
• You need clear and accurate information for yourself and for your family
• Foster parents are responsible for providing all information to the Child Protective Assessment Worker

 

 

Tips for Parents During an Assessment:

• Keep a log of contacts and calls throughout the assessment process
• Request documentation from others who have information on the issues raised during the assessment
• Cooperate with the Child Protective Assessment worker
• Stay as positive as you can through the assessment process
• Do not blame the child
• Educate yourself on foster care rules and policy

 

How to Minimize the Risk of Abuse Allegations in Your Home

• Review the materials received from your Mandatory Child Abuse Reporter class
• Read the IFAPA Publication - Child Abuse Assessment: A Guide for Foster Parents
• Read the IFAPA Publication - Confidentiality: A Guide for Foster Parents

 

Guide for Mandatory Reporters (updated July 1, 2010)

Effective July 1, 2010 a new category "Allows Access to Obscene Material" has been added to the child abuse law. This type of abuse is defined as a caretaker knowingly allowing a child access to obscene material, exhibiting obscene material to a child, or disseminating obscene material to a child, as defined in Iowa Code Section 728.1.
To view the full HHS Guide for Mandatory Reporters, click here.