When it comes to fostering, one size doesn’t fit all. There are several types of fostering, each designed to meet the needs of different children and young people.
At Fostering2Inspire, we’ll guide you through the options, helping you understand what each type of fostering involves so you can find the right fit for your household and lifestyle.
What are the main types of fostering?
Here’s an overview of the different types of foster care placements we offer:
- Short-Term Fostering: Short-term fostering provides a safe, temporary home for a child while longer-term plans are made. This might be for a few days, weeks or months. Carers offer stability during a time of uncertainty.
- Long-Term or Permanent Fostering: In some cases, children need a foster home until they reach adulthood. Long-term fostering offers consistency and a strong sense of belonging, often for years at a time.
- Respite or Short Breaks: These placements offer regular or one-off support to full-time foster carers, or to families who need short breaks from caring for children with complex needs. It’s a valuable way to support others while making a difference in a child’s life.
- Parent and Child Fostering: This involves supporting a parent (usually a mother) and their baby or young child within your home. As a carer, you help the parent develop essential parenting skills in a safe and supportive environment.
- Fostering Children with Complex Needs: Some children need extra support due to disabilities, medical conditions or behavioural challenges. We provide training and ongoing support to help carers meet these needs with confidence and compassion.
- Unaccompanied Children and Young People: These are children arriving from overseas without a parent or guardian. They often face language barriers and trauma, and need carers who can offer care, patience and cultural sensitivity.
- Staying Put Arrangements (18+): When young people turn 18, they may not be ready to live independently. Staying put allows them to remain with their foster family while they complete their education or transition into work, offering stability during a key stage of life.
Choosing the right type of fostering
Not every type of fostering suits every carer – and that’s okay. We’re here to help you explore what’s right for you.
Whether you’re interested in offering short-term care or a long-term home, we provide the training, guidance and support you need.
Want to learn more?
If you’re considering becoming a foster carer and want to explore the different types of fostering in more detail, we’d love to hear from you.
Contact our team today to take the first step.