Transport

Children who are in your care should always be treated as part of the family and you will be expected to transport them in the same way that you would your own children.

It is recommended that foster carers ensure a first aid kit and fire extinguisher are always carried in the vehicle.

Where outdoor activities are planned, first aid kits should be carried.

The law requires all children travelling in cars to use the correct child car seat or booster seat (see GOV.UK, Using a child car seat or booster seat) until they are either 135 cm in height or the age of 12 (which ever they reach first). After this they must use an adult seat belt. The same rules apply for children with disabilities unless a doctor says they're exempt on medical grounds. They can use a disabled person's seat belt or child restraint designed for their needs.

When a child can travel without a car seat: the law taxis and minicabs etc. See GOV.UK, When a child can travel without a car seat.

It is the driver's legal responsibility to ensure that the child is correctly restrained.

You can use your child’s car seat in the front seat of a vehicle, in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions / advice and if it fits.

You must deactivate any frontal airbags before fitting a rear-facing baby seat.

The vehicle should be roadworthy with an up to date MOT and insurance cover which includes fostered children.

It is a good idea to take toys and books to occupy small children on long journeys.

If the vehicle has to be stopped at the side of the road or on the hard shoulder of a motorway, the hazard warning lights should be put on, all occupants should get out of the vehicle and stand well away from the road, and the emergency services must be called.

You may be able to claim mobility allowance for Disabled Children, speak to the child’s social worker about this.