Why matching and placement stability are important
The more children move from fostering families to another, the more their ability to form secure attachments is impacted. Every broken attachment impacts throughout an individual’s life; their ability to trust others and their ability to form secure adult relationships. When thinking about children looked after, I always think it is important for foster carers to […]
I’m single, what if I meet the right person whilst a foster carer?
Kerry, a Hertfordshire-based foster carer, shares her experience of fostering as a single parent. As often happens, Kerry met Ian when she least expected it. Kerry’s story is not unique. At Fostering Hearts, we welcome foster carers from diverse backgrounds and family setups. Fostering is not limited to one stereotypical family type. The fostering assessment […]
Pets and fostering children
We often get asked whether someone can foster if they have pets, so we thought we’d ask a few of our carers about the positives and negatives about pets and fostering children. For many children in care, the presence of animals can make all the difference to how quickly and how well they settle into […]
An overview of the UK fostering system
For many children and young people in the UK, foster care provides a vital lifeline. It offers a safe and stable home for those who are unable to live with their birth families. How the UK foster care system works Fostering is operated by both local authorities (LAs) and independent fostering agencies (IFAs). Children are […]
Balancing a Full-Time Job with Foster Care
Being a foster carer is an incredibly rewarding and selfless act, requiring immense dedication, patience, and hard work. Juggling a full-time job alongside foster care responsibilities can be challenging, but with the right approach, it’s entirely possible. In this article, we’ll explore some tips and strategies from experienced foster parents on how to find the […]
What Would Disqualify Me from Being a Foster Carer?
Fostering is a rewarding journey that requires careful evaluation of your personal circumstances. Some factors that could disqualify you from becoming a foster carer include specific criminal records, lack of space, health conditions, personal circumstances, and financial instability. However, many individuals with diverse backgrounds successfully become foster carers. To determine your eligibility, reach out to […]
Pay allowance for fostering
Foster carers receive a weekly allowance, which is a mixture of funds intended for the household and the foster child. This financial support covers everything from the child’s personal needs to household expenses, aiming to mirror the support a child would receive in a traditional family setting. Weekly fostering payments are broken down into ‘allowance’ […]
Council tax payment help for foster carers
The past few years have brought their share of challenges, not least of which has been the sharp rise in the cost of living. At South Coast Fostering, the way in which we support our carers has been constant throughout these times. Aware of the financial pressures facing many, we’ve been committed to finding ways […]
Myth or truth? Fostering myths put right
Fostering a child is one of the most rewarding things a person can do but it’s also widely misunderstood. Many potential foster carers are put off by myths and misconceptions. If you’ve ever thought about fostering but weren’t sure if you were “the right kind of person,” this blog is for you. Let’s bust some common myths […]
Journey through the fostering assessment
The journey to becoming a foster carer is a thorough process that helps ensure you’re ready for the commitment to fostering. Here’s everything you need to know about what it involves, what to expect, and how to prepare: What is a Fostering Assessment? A fostering assessment is a detailed evaluation with information about your background, […]