Being a foster carer is more than just a job; it’s an enriching experience and an opportunity to make a difference. There is plenty to think about before making the decision, so here are some top tips for becoming a foster carer.
Speak to Your Partner and Children First
Being a foster carer will not only impact your life but also the lives of your partner and children. Bringing a new person into the family home is an important discussion to have before moving forward with the process. Whilst you will be the main caregiver, your partner will need to be assessed too, as they live in the home.
Likewise, moving in a foster child is a transition that your children will need to get accustomed to. Helping them understand what you are doing and why will ensure they are ready to welcome a new child into the home. Plus, this is a great experience for them to learn empathy and compassion for other children, and hopefully make some friends in the process!
Attend Fostering Events
The best way to find out more about becoming a foster carer is to attend any webinars or fostering events in your area. This allows you to connect with other foster carers, gaining invaluable advice and support when first starting out.
There is no better person to speak to about the benefits of foster care than someone doing it themselves! You can also speak to an agency such as thefca.co.uk about how you can become a foster carer for children who require a home, such as refugee children.
Consider How You Need to Adapt Your Home
Your home will be a foster child’s safe space, so it needs to be somewhere that is suitable for the age group you want to adopt. For instance, if you are interested in fostering toddlers and young children, you may need to adapt your home accordingly, with safety gates and cabinet child locks.
Health and safety in a foster home is a big deal, so you should get to know the rules and regulations you will need to follow as a foster carer. Don’t worry too much though, as your fostering agency will support you with all of this before moving in a child.
Consider Your Skills and Experience
You do not need any special qualifications to become a foster carer, as long as you can provide a nurturing home for foster children. Foster carers should understand that the children within their care require special attention and support, as they may have been through traumatic events or are still coming to terms with being a child in care.
If you have specific experience, such as caring for people with learning disabilities, you may want to consider opening your home for foster children with special needs. You can discuss this with your fostering agency.
Becoming a foster carer is an excellent career path if you can provide a loving and suitable home for children and young people in care. Not only will you get fostering allowances, but you will also gain valuable skills and training in caring for foster children, so you can continue to support those who need it most.