ONE third of foster parents have been falsely accused of abusing or harming children in their care, according to a study on the risks of fostering.

The findings, seen by The Times, reveal that four out of five accused of harm believed that the ensuing investigation was unfair. Many said that they were never told what they were accused of doing.

Only a small fraction of allegations result in action either by police or child protection workers, but all must be investigated — usually by social workers in the first instance.

The survey, by the Fostering Network, criticised the “inconsistent and chaotic” way in which social services departments handled investigations, saying that they invariably had a “devastating impact” on both children and foster parents.

Children are removed even if the allegations come from a third party and there is no evidence of harm. Only half the allegations are dealt with within three months.

Experts say that there are many reasons why fostered children may make false allegations. They can misinterpret their carers’ actions. Reading a bedtime story, for example, may in the past have been a prelude to abuse. The children may lie or allege abuse in anger or because they hope they will be reunited with their natural parents.

The survey found that carers were kept in the dark during investigations. The nature of the allegation was often confidential, and the accused had no opportunity to defend themselves. Unlike other child care professionals, they have no recourse to an independent appeal if they are deregistered.

The network, the main charity for Britain’s 43,000 foster carers, said that it was disappointed that last week’s Green Paper, Care Matters, said nothing about improving procedures. Ministers are anxious to attract up to 10,000 more foster parents.

Robert Tapsfield, the network’s chief executive, said: “Of course every allegation must be looked at carefully. But we know most are unsubstantiated and the stress and strain for the family is enormous. We will never recruit the number of carers needed if this is not improved, and fast.”

He is urging ministers to change the system so that foster parents continue to receive at least half of their allowances during an investigation.

A spokeswoman for the Department for Education and Skills said: “Where allegations are made, it is vital that they be investigated. However, we recognise the impact that allegations have on carers, and it is important that they are dealt with properly and fairly.”

She said that the revised guidance for local authorities gave clear target timescales in the procedure for investigation, and highlighted the importance of providing carers with clear information about their financial entitlements.”

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