Improving Management of Cash Allowances for Foster Carers: Tulsa Audit Findings
An internal audit conducted by Tusla in the north Dublin area has uncovered concerning practices regarding the management of cash allowances for foster carers. The audit, obtained through Freedom of Information legislation, revealed several instances of mismanagement that could potentially result in financial losses for the child and family agency.
Audit Findings in North Dublin Area
The audit focused on 25 sample cases in the north Dublin area to assess compliance with the National Policy on Financial Payments and Allowances in Foster Care. Shockingly, it discovered an overpayment of €2,170 to a foster carer due to calculation discrepancies in respite care rates. Additionally, a premature disbursement of just over €5,000 in cash allowances was identified, as approval was granted before the necessary documentation was completed. Lack of Supporting Documents
Furthermore, the audit revealed that cash allowances amounting to €11,036 were granted to foster carers without appropriate supporting documents. In one instance, payments were increased by €100 per week without any documentation to justify the increase. The audit also noted overpayments totaling €6,320 due to delays by social workers in notifying the end of placements, ranging from three to 43 days. Weak Controls and Recommendations
The absence of documented approval raised concerns about the risk of unauthorized or inappropriate payments. Incorrect rates used in calculations could lead to overpayments or underpayments, affecting the accuracy of the payment process. Among the recommendations in the audit report were more frequent policy checks on payments and allowances for those in foster care, along with ensuring all cash allowances are supported by appropriate documentation before processing. Issues in Sligo Leitrim/West Cavan Area
Similar issues were identified in the Sligo Leitrim/West Cavan area, including an overpayment for aftercare support and improper recording of additional support payments. Some cash allowances for foster care lacked approved payment initiation forms, indicating a need for stricter controls and oversight.
Furthermore, the audit revealed that cash allowances amounting to €11,036 were granted to foster carers without appropriate supporting documents. In one instance, payments were increased by €100 per week without any documentation to justify the increase. The audit also noted overpayments totaling €6,320 due to delays by social workers in notifying the end of placements, ranging from three to 43 days.
Weak Controls and Recommendations
The absence of documented approval raised concerns about the risk of unauthorized or inappropriate payments. Incorrect rates used in calculations could lead to overpayments or underpayments, affecting the accuracy of the payment process. Among the recommendations in the audit report were more frequent policy checks on payments and allowances for those in foster care, along with ensuring all cash allowances are supported by appropriate documentation before processing. Issues in Sligo Leitrim/West Cavan Area
Similar issues were identified in the Sligo Leitrim/West Cavan area, including an overpayment for aftercare support and improper recording of additional support payments. Some cash allowances for foster care lacked approved payment initiation forms, indicating a need for stricter controls and oversight.
Similar issues were identified in the Sligo Leitrim/West Cavan area, including an overpayment for aftercare support and improper recording of additional support payments. Some cash allowances for foster care lacked approved payment initiation forms, indicating a need for stricter controls and oversight.
In conclusion, the audit findings highlight the critical importance of proper management of cash allowances for foster carers to prevent financial losses and ensure transparency in the payment process. It is imperative that Tusla takes immediate action to address the identified issues and implement the recommendations outlined in the report to safeguard the financial integrity of the agency and support the well-being of children in foster care.
