Short term foster placements
What is short term fostering?
Short Term Foster Placements
Short term fostering is one of the most common types of foster care in the UK.
Short term fostering isn’t always as straightforward as it sounds. In reality, placements described as “short term” can vary a lot.
We’ve genuinely had short term placements that lasted just one night, and others that continued for several years. The term “short term” simply means that, at the point the child is placed with you, the long-term plan isn’t necessarily for them to remain with you or in foster care permanently.
However, decisions about a child’s future can sometimes take a long time. Courts, assessments and work with the child’s family can all mean that plans remain uncertain for quite a while. Because of this, a placement that starts as short term may end up lasting much longer than anyone expected.
Sometimes people applying to foster tell us that they would prefer to care for children on a short term basis only. That’s completely understandable. Starting your fostering journey can feel daunting, and the idea of committing to caring for a child for many years can feel like a big step.
If short term fostering is what you would like to do, we will absolutely support you with that. At the same time, we always remind carers that plans can change. A child might come to stay for what was expected to be a few weeks, but sometimes they end up staying much longer because it turns out to be the right place for them to be.
In fostering, flexibility and keeping the child’s best interests at heart are always the most important things.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is short term fostering?
Short term fostering is when a child lives with a foster carer for a temporary period while plans are made about their future. This might involve assessments of the child’s family, court decisions or finding a longer-term home.
How long do short term foster placements last?
Short term placements can vary a lot. Some may last only a few days or weeks, while others can continue for several months or even years. It often depends on how long it takes for decisions about the child’s long-term future to be made.
Can a short term placement become long term?
Yes, this can sometimes happen. A placement that begins as short term may become longer if it is the best arrangement for the child. In some cases, children remain with the same foster carers for several years.
Can I choose to only provide short term foster care?
Yes. Many foster carers prefer to start by offering short term placements. Fostering services will work with you to match you with the types of placements you feel most comfortable providing.
Why do children need short term foster care?
Children may need short term foster care while professionals work with their families, while court decisions are being made, or while a longer-term plan such as reunification, long term fostering or adoption is arranged.
