Sometimes it can be hard to make yourself heard in the foster care system.
We've collected resources and tips to help you advocate for yourself.
Be heard: 4 Tips
TIP #1
Write it down
Sometimes putting a complaint in writing adds "officialness." Use FosterClub's free FYI form to document your complaint, or use it to think through what you want to elevate at an in-person meeting, phone call, or through email.
TIP #2
Elevate
When it's possible and safe to do so, begin by addressing your problem with the person who is responsible. Give a bit of time for people to respond (for example, give a caseworker 3 business days to get back to you). If you don't get a resolution, you may want to elevate to the 'next person up,' such as a supervisor. This guide talks you through the options.
TIP #3
Contact the Ombudsman
Most states have an Ombudsman's office that is in in charge of hearing complaints and helping to solve problems for people involved with foster care. Most states have an Ombudsman, but not all. Learn more about what an Ombudsman does and why they exist.
TIP #4
Talk to the Judge
Every young person's case in foster care is overseen by a Judge. You have the right to go to court to let the Judge know if you are not happy with how something is going in your case. This guide helps explain how the Court System works with foster care.
Understanding the chain of command.
Before filing a complaint, try having an ope conversation with your case worker, foster parent, or a service provider that you are having a conflict with. Discuss your concerns in a calm manner. Honest communication may clear up any confusion or provide an opportunity to correct the situation before escalating things.
The chart at the right shows how you can move up a ladder to get a complaint or issue resolved. You can learn more about how to file a complaint in this publication.
From the publication, From Complaint to Resolution: Understanding the Child Welfare Grievance Process
Not sure if you should file a complaint? Here are some examples.
There are lots of reasons that a young person might need to file a complaint, but sometimes it can be difficult to know if it is worth saying something.
Click on the + signs to the right to expand these common challenges to better understand if or why you should file a complaint.
What to do if your issue isn't as serious as an official complaint.... Here are some alternatives:
Try this:
Journal
Sometimes putting a complaint in writing adds "officialness." Use FosterClub's free FYI form to document your complaint, or use it to think through what you want to elevate at an in-person meeting, phone call, or through email.
Or try this:
Talk to a school counselor or therapist
Sometimes putting a complaint in writing adds "officialness." Use FosterClub's free FYI form to document your complaint, or use it to think through what you want to elevate at an in-person meeting, phone call, or through email.
Or try this:
Give it 48 hours
Sometimes putting a complaint in writing adds "officialness." Use FosterClub's free FYI form to document your complaint, or use it to think through what you want to elevate at an in-person meeting, phone call, or through email.
Or try this:
Connect with Peers
Sometimes putting a complaint in writing adds "officialness." Use FosterClub's free FYI form to document your complaint, or use it to think through what you want to elevate at an in-person meeting, phone call, or through email.
”Before FosterClub, I was not aware of all of the supports I could access. I was able to get help paying for my college.”
— J. Smith, age 19, spent 12 years in the Vermont foster care system
Still need help? Contact FosterClub!
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