Types of Fostering

We know that all foster carers have a range of differing skills, knowledge and experience. As such, we feel it is important to utilise those skills in a way that benefits our children and feels comfortable for you as carers. Children of a range of ages, from birth to eighteen, are in need of foster homes. However, we currently have a greater need for those who can care for teen-aged children.

Fostering a child may be on a short-term or long-term basis.

Short-Term - Short-term foster placements can range from an overnight stay up to two years. Short-term carers offer children a stable and secure home whilst decisions are made regarding a child’s long-term plan. Children may return home to birth family, go on to be cared for by other family members/carers or move on to their adoptive family.
Long-Term - Long-term foster carers care for children who, for whatever reason, are unable to live with their birth families. Children will remain with their long-term carers until they reach adulthood.

It is important to note that we assess all carers initially as short-term carers.

We also have a need for foster carers who are able to care for children with disabilities. This can also be on a long-term or short-term basis. We also have a scheme which provides short breaks for children with disabilities who continue to live with their birth families:

Short Breaks - Short breaks carers offer children with disabilities regular, planned and ongoing support at weekends and during school holidays. Short breaks carers work closely with parents to ensure care is offered to children which meet their specific needs.

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