u/OghamBySB

A child in my care alleged physical harm from me. I’m a kinship carer and this has resulted in the removal of two children from my household- bio child remains with us.

I have not been told what the allegation is, only that it falls under ‘common assault’.

I genuinely cannot recall any event or incident that would have led to physical harm, perceived or actual. The child in question has a history of marking and bruising easily and for that reason we have been very careful not to grip, push, shove or anything physical when getting them to move. We also do not believe in physical chastisement as each child has special needs and physical chastisement would do nothing to regulate, calm or settle the child. We have been training for over 10 years on how to work with kids with needs and this is the last thing we would ever do. It’s been difficult to accept this situation as I am autistic too and the waiting and no updates has been hell.

We have had no contact with the kids, which has been heartbreaking as we took them home from hospital at birth and they have never been away from us. However, child in question recently had an ABE, and the IO has been in touch with my solicitor to say I will be offered ‘an interview in due course’. I knew this was a possibility but I’m shocked it’s gotten this far.

How do I prove I’ve done nothing if it comes down to my word against the child? I have communal CCTV which shows my parenting style, gentle touch, guidance and advice and humour. No evidence of any assault against anyone. I’ve got a parenting strategy for each child and wellness indicators, and I love this kid. I would never raise my hand to any of them because I grew up being beaten and wanted to break cycles with my Fostering journey.

What do I need to do to bring this to an end, and bring the kids home, and to repair the damage done by the allegation? (I’m not angry, a child is a child).