Becoming a foster carer is a life changing opportunity which provides a unique experience for both the carer and child. Taking on the added responsibility of caring for a young person is a fantastic thing to do and the part that carers’ play cannot be underestimated at all.
But what do foster carers do?
At Fostering2Inspire we have helped start the fostering journey for carers from all different backgrounds and have many years of experience in seeing first-hand the fantastic work our foster carers do. They have a broad skill set which allows them to understand the needs and concerns their foster child or children may have while looking after them.
There are many tasks which foster carers have to perform to help care for their foster child, including:
- Providing support: Foster carers are expected to offer a high level of care and support for a child with everything that they do. This includes their education, any out of school clubs they attend, their health and looking out for their social wellbeing. Doing this helps a carer to encourage a child with their studies and extra-curricular activities.
- Managing behaviour: Foster carers use their patience and understanding to deal with any behaviour issues a child might have. Foster carers will be supported by our experienced team in providing therapeutic care to children, helping to create a stable and peaceful home life.
- Attend meetings and training sessions: While working alongside us, foster carers will have regular meetings with the team based on the progress of the child.
In addition to the crucial tasks mentioned above, foster carers also play a pivotal role in creating a nurturing and inclusive environment for their foster children. Building a strong emotional connection and fostering a sense of belonging are essential aspects of their role. By offering a stable and loving home, foster carers contribute significantly to the child's emotional well-being, helping them develop a positive self-image and a sense of security. This emotional support is often a key factor in the child's overall growth and development.
Furthermore, foster carers collaborate with various professionals involved in the child's life, such as teachers, healthcare providers, and social workers. Communication and teamwork are essential as foster carers attend meetings and training sessions to stay informed about the child's progress and any additional support they may require. This collaborative approach ensures that everyone involved is working towards the best interests of the child, fostering a holistic and comprehensive support system.
At Fostering2Inspire we are continually helping our foster carers learn about their role so that they can deal with any challenges which might occur. The help and support provided never stops and we are on hand 24/7 to speak about any concerns our carers have.
If you would like to start your fostering journey and want to find out more about what foster carers do, then please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.