Fostering leave and pay policy

It’s for all colleagues directly employed by the charity.

• You can apply for fostering leave if you are fostering on a long-term basis and have worked continuously for Barnardo’s for 26 weeks.
• You can take up to 52 weeks of leave.
• The 52 weeks is made up of 26 weeks of ordinary fostering leave and 26 weeks of additional fostering leave.
• You are entitled to 26 weeks of paid leave.

• Colleagues are responsible for complying with the notification, certification and documentary evidence requirements within the deadlines set out in this policy.
• Line Managers are responsible for discussing and agreeing any period of fostering leave with their colleague, ensuring any agreed periods of fostering leave are notified to their People Team.
• People Teams are responsible for advising and guiding colleagues and line managers on this policy; confirming in writing any agreed periods of fostering leave and pay to the individual; and ensuring that the leave and pay details are correctly recorded and actioned.
• People Strategy & Projects Team is responsible for keeping up to date with any legal changes and updating this policy, and other associated documents or processes, accordingly.