Types of fostering

Caring for children on a full time basis, the length of time can vary depending on the child’s family circumstances This can mean anything from an overnight stay to a period of several months, until the child can return home to their own family or a longer-term fostering placement or adoption arrangement can be made

This is for a more long term fostering placement which involves caring for children who cannot return to their families and for whom adoption isn’t appropriate

Caring for brothers and sisters

This involves the mother or father, and their baby or young child being placed together in foster care.

Offering support to existing carers and birth families for short periods of time This can be care for children for short periods, usually on a regular basis to give their foster carers or birth parents a break

This type of fostering is unplanned and at short notice, it may be needed immediately due to concerns for a child’s safety. Due to the urgency of these placements there is usually very little notice and information before a child is placed with the foster carer. As an emergency carer you would need to be prepared to take a child into your home at any time of the day or night and have them stay for a few days until a longer term plan is made.

Private fostering is when a child under 16 years of age (or under 18 if they have a disability) is looked after by someone who is not a close relative for more than 28 days - find out more about private fostering

Children and young people who, because they are unable to live with their parents, are being brought up by members of their extended families, friends or other people who are connected with them - find out more about connected persons

Like all children and young people in foster care, teenagers just need that individual or family who can help to make a difference to their lives and prepare them for their future. They can be both boys and girls, and from a variety of ethnic backgrounds who are having difficulties at home. Teenage years can be difficult times and more so for those unable to live with their family. They will need the support of carers who are patient, reliable, someone a young person feels they can talk to and who listens to them. They also need someone who can provide clear guidance and boundaries and who will support them to gain independence skills and prepare them for their future. Yes, it may seem daunting but it can be hugely rewarding, if you are able to help a young person chose their GCSE options, or college course, or watch them excel at an activity or sport , or using the skills you have taught them to move on to independence. You really can make a difference to a teenagers life.