3.11.5 Reducing the Risks of Environmental Tobacco Smoke for Children and their Carers |
SCOPE OF THIS CHAPTER
Lewisham has adopted this guidance, particularly in relation to the Placement of Children in Foster Care in that children under five years old should not be placed with carers who smoke because of the potential risk to health.
RELATED CHAPTERS
The Fostering Network ‘Foster Care and Smoking’ Briefing (November 2009)
Lewisham has embraced the principles outlined in the Fostering Network briefing which are summarised as follows:-
- The overriding priority in foster care must be the welfare of the child. Foster care provides a positive environment for children, helping to improve their chances of being happy and healthy as they grow older.
- It is in the interest of all children to be raised in a smokefree home.
- Local authorities must protect children from secondhand smoke while doing their best to ensure that no child in need goes without a foster placement. Balancing the risk of exposure against the benefits of good and appropriate care is challenging but by focusing on the individual child’s needs, the right decisions can be made.
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