Fostering

What does a Foster Carer do?

As a foster carer you would look after other people's children through difficult times in their lives.
The child's family and social worker are also part of the team who, alongside other people, work together to promote the child's welfare.

Why do children need foster care?

Children need foster care for lots of different reasons. Their parents may have relationship problems, have difficulty in coping with and caring for their children or the child may have suffered from abuse.

How long do children stay with Foster Carers?

Most children return to their own families but some children may require long-term care, until they reach the age of independence. Some children may require short periods of care on a regular basis (shared care or respite care). Other children may need to be cared for on a short-term basis for a few days to a few months. Sometimes it is not clear, because of the child's circumstances and they may require medium-term care, which could last a couple of years.

What type of person becomes a Foster Carer?

There isn't a 'typical' foster carer, although anyone wanting to foster should like children, have room in their house and life for a child and have patience and energy.

A sense of humour always helps.

Foster carers come from all walks of life, race and culture (like children who need looking after).

They may be married, co-habiting or single, employed or unemployed.

If you have a partner it must be something you both want to do.

If you have children you must consider their views also.

Whatever your circumstances we will be open to your enquiry.

Does a Foster Carer get paid?

No, however, we do pay an allowance to cover the cost of caring for a child.

What support does a Foster Carer get?

Every foster carer has a link worker and every child has a social worker.

Both of these people will visit regularly to support you and the child.

There are also opportunities for ongoing training and to meet with other foster carers who are invaluable in the support and advice they can offer you.

What do I have to do to become a Foster Carer?

A social worker will visit you to discuss your application and take some basic details of you and your partner and children (if you have any).

Then you will have to attend a training course, which gives you insight into what it is like to become a foster carer.

After the course a 'home study' is undertaken and this includes talking to you and members of your household about your life and what you can offer to looking after children.

We also need to talk to two people outside of your immediate family who will give you a reference.

All foster carers need to undergo a medical and checks with the police are made.

How can I find out more about becoming a Foster Carer?

Ring the following number and ask to speak to the Child Placement Duty Officer.

Becoming a foster carer is not a decision you can take lightly.

Before making the decision, it is best to talk it over with someone and request an information pack