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Foster Allegation Support Team (F.A.S.T.):
F.A.S.T. provides support to foster parents when an allegation has been, or might be brought against them.
Foster parents need to be kept informed of the procedures and the process throughout an allegation. F.A.S.T.
was created to provide support without judgment and in an environment that provides the least amount of
damage or harm for the foster parents and their families while an investigation is ongoing.
F.A.S.T. can offer the foster parent the following services:
• Provides an immediate response as well as support to foster parents when an allegation has been, or might be,
brought against them by clarifying the process, and providing clear communication.
• F.A.S.T. volunteers will be there when any foster parent asks for help or support.
• F.A.S.T. volunteers will keep you informed of the procedures and the processes a foster parent can expect during
an investigation.
• F.A.S.T. volunteers work toward better investigations, more compassion, tolerance and respect for foster parents,
children and families.
• F.A.S.T. volunteers have a firm commitment to maintain the confidentiality of the reports.
• F.A.S.T. volunteers support and help, which means listening to foster parents when they have a need to vent a
sense of hurt, anger and shock at what has happened to them.
• F.A.S.T. volunteers never allow themselves to get involved in name calling, accusations, or other
counterproductive behaviors.
• F.A.S.T. volunteers help foster parents learn the concept of "fair fighting". You must remember to treat the other
side with absolute respect and insist on the same.
• F.A.S.T. volunteers help foster parents gain an attitude of honest and straightforward integrity which allows their
point to be viewed.
Families accused of neglect and abuse experience the accusation of integrity as a form of assault or
victimization. People who have been accused of abuse often experience the same types of symptoms as those
who have actually been abused:
• TRAUMA: Many foster parents express shock and disbelief.
• BETRAYAL: They feel their main source of support can no longer talk to them.
• STIGMA: Foster Parents report feeling shame, humiliation, inadequacy and a decline in self-esteem.
• POWERLESSNESS: The process can be lengthy and complex and often feel they have little information
regarding the allegation.
Above all, do not forget that when you are the subject of an investigation, you need to ensure the following: (a)
Begin a dated, written journal of events and communications; (b) Keep good records; (c) Insist on giving full
input into the investigations; (d) Request assistance from your agency in explaining to the children what is
happening and why; (e) Maintain your sense of professionalism as a foster parent; (f) Cooperate with the
investigation; and most important, call FAST for the needed support at:
1-800-FAST-119
(1-800-327-8119)
Or by email at fast@floridafapa.org