Foster caring, while profoundly meaningful, presents obstacles as well. Accessing support empowers foster carers to nurture the children entrusted to them. This guide covers some of the key types of support available to foster carers throughout the UK.
Training
One of the most important forms of support for new foster carers is comprehensive training. Reputable fostering agencies will provide excellent training programmes to fully prepare you for the realities of fostering. Training should cover topics such as:
- Child development
- Handling challenging behaviours
- Providing therapeutic care
- Safeguarding and child protection
- Working effectively with birth families
- Understanding trauma and attachment
- Promoting positive outcomes for children
Ongoing training opportunities allow you to continue developing your skills and knowledge, whether you are fostering in West Sussex or anywhere else in the UK.
Support Groups
Connecting with other foster carers is invaluable. Support groups provide a safe space to share your experiences, challenges, and successes. Groups are often organised by fostering agencies or local authorities. Speak to your supervising social worker about groups in your area. Online forums and social media groups also enable foster carers across the UK to connect. Just be mindful of privacy.
Mentoring
Having an experienced foster carer to mentor you as you embark on your fostering journey can provide invaluable guidance and reassurance. A good mentor understands the challenges you face and can offer practical tips and emotional support. Many fostering agencies have formal mentoring programmes. If not, reach out to other foster carers nearby who may be willing to take on a mentoring role.
Respite
Caring full-time can be draining, and every foster carer needs a break sometimes. Respite allows you to recharge while the child receives care from another approved carer. Many agencies have respite carers who solely provide short-term relief. You may also arrange informal respite with another local foster carer. Be upfront about your respite needs with your agency.
Supervising Social Worker
Your supervising social worker is your main point of contact and provides regular support and supervision. They can guide you in caring for the child’s needs, facilitate access to other support services, and assist with practical issues like allowances. Be open about any difficulties you’re facing – don’t struggle on alone.
Finance
Fostering must not cost you money. The foster care allowance provided by your agency should cover the child’s expenses. Many foster agencies and local authorities also pay fees on top of allowances. As a foster carer, you should not be financially worse off.
Therapeutic Services
Caring for children with complex trauma requires professional support. Your agency may help the child in your care to access services like psychotherapy, counselling, art therapy, or occupational therapy. Having this wrap-around care enables you to provide the nurturing home environment the child needs. Be persistent in accessing the right therapeutic support.
Becoming a foster carer is a calling that requires commitment, patience, and sacrifice but brings immeasurable rewards. By being proactive in accessing the many avenues of support available, you’ll be equipped for the challenges ahead and able to become the safe, nurturing harbour every child deserves.