Beginning the permanent care journey - Questions

[mrst82]

Hi all,
My husband and I are exploring the idea of applying for a permanent care child in Victoria.

- I am concerned about my weight being an issue.

- What fees are involved with pc? I imagine its similar to adoption. I cannot find any information on this. What are the approximate costs? Do pc parents receive any assistance?

- I understand the application process takes a long time for pc in Victoria (The next information session is in July). Does anyone have any stories of how long they had to wait? We wish for a child under 4 years, and are happy to take on a sibling group of 2 under this age. We are also open to bring up a child/ren with developmental issues.

Thanks so much. I appreciate any responses. I'd also like to document our journey somewhere online. I think it's important talking about the journey we are about to take as doing so can only help the next couple/individual wanting to begin or expand their family.

[Bumperstump Cummerbund]

I can only answer for WA, not sure if there will be any differences...

Weight - This didn't appear to be an issue when we went to all the info sessions. Perhaps if they were in a situation where they had more carers to children they would bring this in, but at the moment, at least in WA, there are literally thousands of children that can't be taken from dangerous situations because there is nowhere for them to go. I really doubt the government would take BMI into account y'know?

Fees - You should be able to obtain a fee listing sheet from DOCS. In WA you receive a parenting payment per child, which depends on the age of the child. You also receive pocket money to be given to the child, also dependant on age. The government will generally reimburse for other expenses, such as school fees, and they give a yearly clothing allowance as well.

Process time - Understandably, its not something just anyone can just jump into, as there are children that need protecting. From what I've seen, the process has been shortened slightly, to encourage more people to apply and most importantly, to get the kids into stable homes ASAP. Basically the process involves attending an info session, sending in your application, getting a home and personal assessment done, 20 hours parenting training (there is more if you would like to pc an indigenous child), and from there, just waiting for a child who needs you. We were quoted 6-8 months.

I think once you've posted a certain amount of times, you can use the blog here on BB to document your journey - I know I'd be interested in reading!

Good luck on your journey

[HotI]

Here is a link to FAQs on adoption and permanent care in Victoria:

Frequently asked questions (FAQ): Adoption and Permanent Care - State Government of Victoria, Australia, Department of Human Services

Regards to your weight, there are no 'rules' that your BMI must be a certain number but your health is considered in the selection process. You will have to discuss your particular circumstances with the workers, but it shouldn't disqualify you.

The costs for PC are not as great as for adoption.

Your ages will be beneficial, as they are keen on younger carers.

The education sessions should answer any questions you might have.

good luck,

Kate

[mrst82]

Thanks

[MargOZ]

I've also just commenced down the Permanent Care road and wanted to wish you and husband all the best with your journey too.

Marg

[lil_chookie]

- I am concerned about my weight being an issue. I have a high BMI yet had a complete health check last year and the doctor said that I am in excellent health. I've struggled with losing weight since my daughter's birth. I don't smoke or drink. I have no health concerns at this point. Is it true that there are restrictions on weight? Could it stop me from becoming a parent of permanent care?

You will have to get a medical done. They will be more concernced with health issues than you actual size, but it may depend on how overweight you are. Your weight in KG's will go into the report that the social workers prepare and you will be labelled as overweight. The KG amount will also go in your profile once you are approved. According to BMI I am overweight, but I am physically very active and in excellent health.

- What fees are involved with pc? I imagine its similar to adoption. I cannot find any information on this. What are the approximate costs? Do pc parents receive any assistance?

There is no upfront fees or anything and you do recieve a carers allowance one you are placed

- I understand the application process takes a long time for pc in Victoria (The next information session is in July). Does anyone have any stories of how long they had to wait? We wish for a child under 4 years, and are happy to take on a sibling group of 2 under this age. We are also open to bring up a child/ren with developmental issues.

Once you go to the information session you will be able to send in an expression of interest. From there you will be booked in to the next possible education groups. There may be one later this year but you may at this stage be looking at next year. You could call DHS and speak with someone in the Permanent Care team who will be able to give you the correct dates. After you have attended the Education Groups (usually 3 full Saturdays) you will be able to submit an application. There is alot of paper to fill out, a life story to complete (approx 20 typed pages), medicals, police checks ect. Then you will be allocated a social worker. Depending on what region you are in, will depend on assessment times. Some regions can take up to 12 months to aollocate a social worker, some immediately. Once you begin assessment you are looking for anything from 6 - 12 months for approval. Could be quicker, could be longer.

If you have any other questions, feel free to ask

[mrst82]

Hey, thanks for all of your replies. Since posting this thread, we have been to an infant adoption information session and are this month attending training. Thanks very much for all of your advice! It's helped a lot.

I wish you all the best.

[lil_chookie]

That is fantastic! Enjoy the training. I found it to be so informative & interesting.

[Poncho]

How did you find the training Mrst82? Are you going down the infant adoption route rather than the permanent care route? (Or is the info session/training for both?)