How We Support Our Foster Carers
Being a foster carer can sometimes feel overwhelming. But, here at Fostering Options, you are never alone in your fostering journey!
At Fostering Options, we understand the importance of supporting each other in the fostering community. Having a good support system inside and outside of your personal relationships can massively help you through your fostering journey.
Let's take a look at what support we offer...
Named Supervising Social Workers
Once approved you will receive ongoing support from a named qualified and experienced Social Worker.
Induction Training Programme
Following your approval you will be invited to attend a 'Foundation Course' which will give you further advice and training to prepare you for your placement.
TSD Standards
Support to achieve a national qualification designed specifically for new foster carers over your first year of fostering.
Supervision Meetings
Supervision meetings usually take place at your home on a monthly basis, although this can be increased if needed.
Support Groups
These meetings provide opportunities to meet with other foster carers and share their experiences as well as hearing from Social Workers about any developments in the organisation and the wider world of fostering.
Education Consultants
Access to consultants who are available to support children and young people’s education.
Therapeutic Service
Access to our Therapeutic Service providing specific support to foster carers at times of stress.
Training
Each foster carer has an Individual Development Plan; your Supervising Social Worker will complete this with you and identify your specific training and development needs.
24-hour Support, 365 Days a Year
Support is always available to all foster carers. During office hours, this could be on the telephone, email, or text message, through the local office or directly with your allocated Social Worker. Outside of office hours, we operate an emergency telephone service where you can speak to a qualified Social Worker who would be able to give you advice and guidance with any issues that may arise with your placement. There is always someone at the end of the phone.
Financial Support
Regular payments exceeding the Fostering Network Payment Guidelines are made to each fostering household with a placement.
Short Breaks
Foster carers will be entitled to short breaks in line with the child’s Care Plan.
Membership to Fostering Network
This allows foster carers access to the services provided by this recognised body.
Our Social Worker Scarlett explains what support you will receive if you were to foster with our agency.
Ready to change a young person's life?
(Made to each fostering household with a placement).