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Foster child bill of rights
The Foster Child Bill of Rights ensures that children in foster care are treated with dignity,
respect, and fairness while their needs are met and their voices are heard. In Georgia, this
document outlines the rights foster children are entitled to, focusing on their safety, well-
being, and future. Here are the key provisions:
Key Rights of Foster Children in Georgia
Safety and Stability
Live in a safe, healthy, and supportive environment free from abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Be placed in a home that meets their physical and emotional needs.
Respect and Dignity
Be treated with respect and have their cultural, religious, and personal beliefs honored.
Family and Connections
Maintain contact with biological family members, siblings, and friends whenever possible and safe. Participate in reunification efforts if appropriate.
Education
Attend school regularly and receive the same educational opportunities as their peers. Be supported in their academic and extracurricular activities.
Health and Well-Being
Receive appropriate medical, dental, mental health, and substance abuse care. Access necessary counseling or therapeutic services to address trauma or other emotional needs.
Voice in Decisions
Be involved in decisions affecting their lives, including case plans, court hearings, and placement changes. Express their opinions and have them considered without fear of punishment or retaliation.
Privacy and Personal Belongings
Have privacy regarding personal information and communications, such as letters, phone calls, and diaries. Keep personal belongings and have a place to store them safely.
Advocacy and Support
Be assigned a caseworker and have regular access to them. Have a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) or Guardian ad Litem (GAL) to represent their best interests in court.
Placement Information
Be informed about why they are in foster care and about the placement they are going to.
Transition Support
Receive life skills training and support for transitioning out of foster care as they approach adulthood (e.g., financial literacy, employment training, housing support).
Freedom from Discrimination
Be free from discrimination based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or disability.
Foster Parents bill of rights
The Foster Parent Bill of Rights in Georgia is designed to ensure foster parents are treated
with dignity, have access to essential resources, and are actively involved in the care and
decision-making for the children placed in their homes. Below are the key rights granted to
foster parents under Georgia law:
Key Rights of Foster Parents in Georgia
Respect and Dignity
Be treated with respect and dignity by child welfare staff, caseworkers, and others involved in the foster care system.
Training and Support
Receive necessary and ongoing training to enhance caregiving skills and understanding of foster care responsibilities.
Information
Be provided with full disclosure of all available information about the child, including medical, behavioral, and educational history, to make informed decisions about their care. Receive timely updates on changes affecting the child's well-being or case plan.
Participation in Decision-Making
Be included in planning and decision-making processes regarding the child's care and case plan, including foster care review panels and court hearings.
Advocacy
Advocate for the best interests of the child without fear of retaliation.
Timely Payments
Receive financial assistance (stipends) on time to cover the costs of caring for the child.
Emergency Support
Access 24-hour support services in case of emergencies.
Privacy
Have their personal and family information kept confidential, except as required by law.
Reimbursement for Damages
Be reimbursed for damages caused by the foster child, within the limits set by law or policy.
Grievance Process
Have access to a formal process for resolving disputes or grievances regarding their role or the child in their care.
Notice of Changes
Be informed in advance of any changes to a child's placement, whenever possible, and be given the opportunity to provide input.