People may believe that if you are single you do not have the time and resources to provide the right amount of care which a young person requires. However this is a complete myth as many foster carers are single and are changing lives with the support they give. Here are some facts and advice to help decide whether being a single foster parent is the right thing to do.
Fact: Being single won’t stop you from Fostering. Your relationship status will not hold you back in becoming a foster carer. Whether your children have left home, you are a single parent or have not parented your own children, you can still become a foster parent.
Advice: Do not be put off by thinking that because you are on your own, you will not be able to cope. It is more than likely that you already have the right characteristics to care for children, and this can be demonstrated from you already considering being a foster carer. Even though you will not have a partner to talk to, our experts will always be on hand to offer support and advice. You are never alone.
Fact: Parenting is a skill. Being a single parent may mean being unable to work a traditional 9-5 job. However, the parenting skills acquired through caring for children makes for a good candidate.
Advice: Our foster carers receive every bit of support they need. This includes foster carer payments to help look after the children in their care.
Fact: Fostering has flexible options. On the other side, if you have a full time job and are unable to commit to foster care full time, there are other options to consider. For example, if you work during the week, you may be able to provide short term care over the weekend or through the school holidays.
Advice: We have carers who can provide respite (emergency or planned) placements either on a regular basis or one off holiday breaks. You do not have to commit to full time care to become a foster parent.
Being a single foster parent can be a fulfilling career choice by knowing you are able to offer a vulnerable child or young person a safe, caring environment. If you are single and are looking to foster, then please get in touch with us.