Fostering

Long term foster care

We are committed to securing permanent/long-term placements through foster care or adoption, for children who are unable to live with their parents or extended family.

Permanent or long-term foster care aims to make sure that children between the ages of eight and 14 years are placed with foster carers who will offer a stable and secure home life throughout their childhood and adolescent years, with ongoing support into adulthood.

What will I need to do?

When caring for a child on a long term basis, you will need to:

• show you have the commitment and ability to really listen to and accept a child.
• encourage and support them to access education and extra-curricular opportunities.
• offer a safe and caring environment for a child and help them maintain a relationship with their family.
• help a child to come to terms with what they've experienced in the past.
• support young people to develop their independence.
• engage your family and friends in welcoming a child into your family life.
• work with a core group of professionals who will support you to care for the child effectively.
• commit to developing your own knowledge and attend training.

What will I receive in return?

As a foster carer, you will receive:

• Excellent training and an opportunity to undertake a QCF Diploma for the Children’s Workforce after a qualifying period.
• Access to a wide range of training programmes.
• Above national average financial allowances.
• Opportunities to progress to receive up to £227.50 on top of the child’s weekly allowances.
• Support from social work professionals who will be there to help and offer advice.
• Opportunities for peer support and networking.
• Access to 24-hour support via the foster care support line and emergency duty team.