Support networks for foster carers

Being a foster carer can be as challenging as it is rewarding. It is therefore vital that all foster carers - even the most experienced - should have access to effective support networks in order to help them in their fostering role. 

Many foster carers have access to their own support networks made up from family, friends and through their local community connections. These personal networks are usually considered during the foster care assessment and are very important to foster carers and their family. However, it is also important that fostering services provide a range of formal and informal support mechanisms. 

Support provided by the fostering service

Fostering services should clearly outline what support they provide to their foster carers. Foster carers should have access to a variety of support provided by their fostering service, such as:

• formal supervision
• peer support
• support groups
• out-of-hours support
• respite care services
• access to independent support or counselling when required

If a foster carer feels that such support is lacking, they should raise it with their fostering service. 

As well as the general support mentioned above, when a child is placed with a foster carer there should be discussion about any care and support that is needed for that particular child, including the nature, frequency and length of time such support is required. Agreements should be written into the placement plan and considered as part of the decision making process. 

Short breaks and care planning

Foster carers may need regular breaks to support them in their role, and often it is these breaks which help maintain placements when they are particularly demanding.  

It is essential that informal and formal arrangements are discussed as part of the planning process so that everyone is clear about their role and responsibilities to ensure that a child’s needs are appropriately met as well as the needs of the foster carer. 

Many services also offer a certain amount paid breaks each year for foster carers to take at their discretion. This is something that foster carers should discuss with their social worker to ensure that the paid short break is being used effectively and that care can be organised for children in a timely manner.