Foster Children & their Families

Foster care is a support mechanism for families to help them through a crisis. The aim is usually to reunite the family. Carers need to work with the child's family and other relatives.

Children need contact with their families and their own routine. Parents need to stay involved with their children. Carers may have to share decisions such as choosing clothes with parents.

They may also be asked to arrange visits from the family in their own home, or elsewhere if preferred.

Some parents need support and confidence building to develop their childcare skills, foster carers can help with this too.

Some parents may feel resentful and anxious about being separated from their children, especially if they are in care against their wishes.

Foster carers will need to give them time, reassurance and respect.

Children's loyalty to and love for their family must be encouraged and supported.